Blood Pressure Methodology - GE Corometrics 250cx Series Operator's Manual

Blood Pressure Methodology

Revision C
Maternal Non-Invasive Blood Pressure Monitoring: NIBP Monitoring
and the effect of an alternative site on blood pressure values, proper cuff size
and comfort.
Warning: Do not place the cuff on a limb being used for intravenous
infusion or any area where circulation is compromised or has the potential
to be compromised.
3. If patient is standing, sitting, or inclined ensure that cuffed limb is supported to
maintain cuff at level of patient's heart. If cuff is not at heart level, the
difference in systolic and diastolic values due to hydrostatic effect must be
considered. Add 1.80 mmHg (0.24 kPa) to values for every inch (2.54 cm)
above heart level. Subtract 1.80 mmHg (0.24 kPa) from values for every inch
(2.54 cm) below heart level.
4. Choose appropriate cuff size. Measure patient's limb and choose appropriately
sized cuff according to size marked on cuff or cuff packaging. When cuff sizes
overlap for a specified limb circumference, choose the larger size cuff.
Precaution: Accuracy depends on use of proper size cuff.
5. Inspect cuff for damage. Replace cuff when aging, tearing or weak closure is
apparent. Do not inflate cuff when unwrapped.
Precaution: Do not use cuff if structural integrity is suspect.
6. Connect the cuff to the air hose.
Warning: It is mandatory that the appropriate hose and cuff combination
be used.
7. Inspect patient's limb prior to application.
Precaution: Do not apply cuff to areas where skin is not intact or tissue is
injured.
8. Palpate artery and place cuff so that patient's artery is aligned with cuff arrow
marked "artery."
9. Squeeze all air from cuff and confirm that connection is secure and unoccluded
and that tubing is not kinked.
10. Wrap cuff snugly around the patient's limb. Cuff index line must fall within
range markings. Ensure that hook and loop closures are properly engaged so
that pressure is evenly distributed throughout cuff. If upper arm is used, place
cuff as far proximally as possible.
11. Proper cuff wrapping should be snug, but should still allow space for a finger
between patient and cuff. Cuff should not be so tight as to prevent venous return
between determinations.
Warning: Using a cuff that is too tight will cause venous congestion and
discoloration of the limb, but using a cuff that is too loose may result in no
readings and/or inaccurate readings.
During a determination, the instantaneous cuff pressure is indicated by a numeric
value displayed beside the title Cuff. This information is displayed in place of the
mean arterial pressure. When a determination is successful, the monitor emits two
short tones (high/low) and displays the three pressure readings (and the maternal
pulse, if NIBP is enabled as the MHR/P source.) Refer to Chapter 7, "Maternal
Heart/Pulse Rate Monitoring", for information.
Regardless of the mode, auto or manual, the values remain displayed according to
the time period specified in the display timer field.
250cx Series Maternal/Fetal Monitor
2036946-001
8-9