Assessing Blood Pressure by Auscultation

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Table of Contents

Introduction
The Senses
Evaluation
Event Analysis
Conclusion
Action Plan
Reference

Introduction

Today’s paper was about assessing blood pressure using a blood pressure gauge. The procedure was divided into two steps: preparation and measurement. In the first step, I need to calm the patient to ensure they are okay to get the procedure. I first learned how to give the patient’s body and hands the correct position. The hand should be placed palm up, and a roller should be placed under the hand.

The second stage was the measurement, where I evaluated the data and recorded them on a sheet. First, I placed the cuff of the tonometer on the patient’s shoulder so that my finger could pass comfortably between the cuff and the skin. I was lucky enough to locate the location of the pulsation on the elbow immediately. Having secured the place, I hooked up the tonometer and began gradually pumping air. The goal of this step is for the pulsation to disappear, after which I need to slowly open the valve and decrease the movement in the cuff. This was the most difficult because observing the pressure at the first and second tones was also necessary. After I got all the data, I wrote them down on a dynamic observation sheet.

The Senses

A while ago, I thought it was an easy procedure, as I understood its importance and the process. However, in practice, I experienced the excitement and responsibility of knowing that these measurements would directly influence the future diagnosis and prescription of medications. I was concerned that my actions could lead to mistakes and tried to do everything carefully, but I was still worried. After this assignment, I pondered why I experienced such excitement (my hands were sweating). Probably it was the lack of experience because I would not have been able to do everything quickly and reliably in a responsible situation. I need to practice more to develop confidence in my actions.

Evaluation

I think it was a positive experience: the demonstration of measuring BP was clear and understandable, but I still failed. The first and second attempts to measure blood pressure were unsuccessful, but I came close to a good result the third time.

Event Analysis

During the demonstration of the BP measurement technique, I carefully observed. I had read about the systolic and diastolic pressures the day before, so I had an idea of what each tone needed to be properly listened to. However, it turned out to be more difficult in practice: it took me several attempts before I could distinguish the tones. My excitement did not allow me to capture the moment of that muffled sound well. I understood the importance of measuring, but unfortunately, I was unprepared. If I had watched a few video tutorials beforehand and practiced my pronunciation, I would have had a better attempt. For example, I did not manage to open the flap easily: it was difficult because the wheel was stiff, and I could not do two things at once. Finally, I lacked stamina because I was frustrated after the first attempt and became even more worried.

Conclusion

Now I would like to summarize this class on BP measurement: it was a great experience that showed me my pros and cons. First, I want to mention the complexity of the technical process: the need to observe the pulse, listen to the tones and turn the valve wheel. Secondly, it was the emotional preparation: I was so anxious that my hands were sweating, and the wheel would not budge on me in any way. The test subject was also nervous because my excitement made me not pay attention to him. Although I had theoretical training and observed the demonstration measurement, I did not have enough to complete the session. Nevertheless, I am glad that I was able to try the blood pressure measurement three times. Now I know better how to lead next time because I will consider my mistakes.

Action Plan

I want to make the most of my theoretical potential and improve my pressure measurement skills. I will do this with my little plan of action to improve my professionalism and stress tolerance and emotional preparedness.

I will try to address at what point the excitement about the procedure begins. Stein and Hollen note that the level of stress in such a procedure is normal, but I think I can find a way to reduce it (Stein & Hollen, 2020). To do this, I plan to refer to material on psychological training for nurses to identify the causes of my anxiety and figure out how to cope with stress.
I will be working on raising my stress tolerance. In particular, psychology classes can be a great way to sort out my problem. Also, my older colleagues can help me: I want to ask them for a demonstration to find out what and how they feel during the procedure.
Finally, I plan to devote more time to learning the technicalities of the procedure. Maybe I’ll rent a tonometer and try to practice with my fellow students. I need to take the time to learn how to screw and open the valve properly, how to distinguish tones, and how to monitor the heart rate.

Reference

Stein, L. & Hollen, C. J. (2020). Concept-based clinical nursing skills. Fundamental to advanced. Elsevier Health Sciences.

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