3.1 Blood Pressure Introduction
Learning Objectives
- Accurately measure and document blood pressure using American Heart Association standards
- Adapt the procedure to reflect variations across the life span
- Recognize and report significant deviations from blood pressure norms
The accurate measurement of blood pressure is important for ensuring patient safety and optimizing body system function. Blood pressure measurements are used by health care providers to make important decisions about a patient’s care. Blood pressure measurements help providers make decisions about whether a patient needs fluids or prescription medications. It is crucial to follow the proper steps to obtain a patient’s blood pressure to ensure the care team has accurate data to help make health care decisions and determine a plan of care.