Vital Signs

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Blood Pressure Measurement

  • Palpate brachial artery
  • Correctly place cuff on arm
  • Support arm at heart level
  • Inflate cuff 30 mmHg over estimated systolic pressure
  • Deflate cuff slowly (<5mm/sec)
  • Auscultate systolic and diastolic pressures with diaphragm

Special Consideration: Auscultory Gap

  • Define term and significance

ONLINE PHYSICAL EXAM TEACHING ASSISTANT

The UF College of Medicine Harrell Center