Identify the reference
Inflatable cuff connected to a pressure gauge. Inflation bulb with a release valve. Gauge is commonly calibrated in mmHg
MEDIVEERSETHE PRACTICAL HUBLOOK CLOSELY / UNDERSTAND CLEARLY
Blood pressure at the bedside
Explain reliable bedside blood-pressure measurement and context-sensitive interpretation.
REFERENCE GALLERY1 / 1 reference
1
Cuff
Cuff: located on the reference instrument. Compare its shape and position with the apparatus used in your practical.
Zoom in, then drag to inspect. Keyboard: + / − to zoom, arrows to pan, 0 to reset. Tap the numbered markers to explore parts.
Sphygmomanometer — reference view
Image: AfroBrazilian · Source / original · CC BY-SA 3.0Resized and converted to WebP; original colours retained.
Identify and explain
Cuff pressure is related to arterial flow changes. In manual auscultation, Korotkoff sounds identify systolic and diastolic endpoints.
- Inflatable cuff connected to a pressure gauge
- Inflation bulb with a release valve
- Gauge is commonly calibrated in mmHg
Explain the measurement
Cuff pressure is related to arterial flow changes. In manual auscultation, Korotkoff sounds identify systolic and diastolic endpoints.
Interpret in context
Technique, cuff size, repeated observations and clinical status affect interpretation.
At the viva table
Try answering aloud, then open the suggested answer. Examiner questions vary.
01 / What does the first Korotkoff sound indicate?
The conventional auscultatory systolic pressure endpoint.
02 / What does disappearance of sounds usually indicate in adults?
Korotkoff phase V, the usual diastolic endpoint.
03 / Why does cuff size matter?
An unsuitable cuff can bias the measured pressure; select a cuff appropriate to arm circumference.
04 / Why support the arm at heart level?
A height difference introduces a hydrostatic pressure error.