Assessment of blood pressure in brachial artery(two-step method)

Let's learn the two-step technique for assessing blood pressure using an aneroid sphygmomanometer.

First, perform hand hygiene to avoid cross-infection, identify and explain the procedure to the patient.

Next, secure the cuff one inch above the palpated brachial artery without tightening it, as it may provide a false reading.

To start, palpate the brachial artery and inflate the cuff slowly, noting when the pulse disappears.

Then, continue to inflate the cuff 30mmHg over where the pulse is no longer felt.

Take note of the reading at which the pulse reappears. This estimates systolic pressure.

Now, deflate the cuff quickly and wait one minute, allowing the blood to refill and circulate through the arm.

Place the stethoscope's diaphragm on the brachial artery and inflate the cuff to 30mmHg above the estimated systolic pressure.

Gradually loosen the valve. Mark the point where the first Korotkoff sound is heard, indicating systolic pressure.

Continue deflating the cuff and note the point when the sound disappears, indicating diastolic pressure.

Finally, remove the cuff, perform hand hygiene, and record the values.