Abstract 176: Is Measuring Blood Pressure All That Simple? An Investigation of Medical Staffs Proficiency in Blood Pressure Measurement [Session Title: Poster Session AM]

This study sought to determine whether improper blood pressure measurement techniques occur in our clinic, and to assess our medical staff’s knowledge of the procedure.A single-blinded observational study was conducted at an academic tertiary referral center’s cardiology clinic. Criteria for proficiency in blood pressure measurement were assessed with a 15-point checklist based on American Heart Association guidelines. All observers received hands-on training in BP measurement prior to evaluating medical staff. After the observational period, medical staff were asked to complete a multiple-choice questionnaire regarding BP measurement technique.In total, 72 different BP measurements were observed, and 25 members of the medical staff completed the post-observation questionnaire. A mean of 69% (10.35 of 15, SD of 13%) of AHA guidelines were followed when obtaining BP measurements. In no encounter were all 15 measured guidelines completed. The most commonly overlooked criteria included inquiry about recent exercise or tobacco/alcohol consumption (completed in 5.6% [4 of 72] of encounters), instruction not to speak (27.8% [20 of 72]), and absence of communication during testing (51.4% [37 of 52]). While cuff size was selected appropriately 87.5% (63 of 72) of the time, in ~24% (17 of 72) of encounters, the cuff was not properly placed on the patient’s arm. The post-observational questionnaire demonstrated less significant deviation from guideline recommended tec...
Source: Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes - Category: Cardiology Authors: Tags: Session Title: Poster Session AM Source Type: research