After rushing upstairs, a client sits for an immediate blood-pressure reading. What should the trainer change?
- AMeasure now and subtract about 10 mmHg to correct for the stairs
- BCheck both arms quickly and record the arm with the lower reading
- CHave the client lie supine for 1 minute, then take the reading
- DWait at least 5 minutes of quiet seated rest with the arm at heart level
Show answer and explanations
Answer
D
Recent exertion raises blood pressure, so a resting value requires at least 5 minutes of quiet seated rest with the back supported and the arm supported at heart level before measuring.
A
There is no valid correction factor for recent activity; the client needs to rest before measuring.
B
When arms differ consistently, the higher arm is used, and quick readings after stairs are not resting values on either arm.
C
One minute is too short a rest, and changing to supine changes the standard seated conditions.
D
Recent exertion raises blood pressure, so a resting value requires at least 5 minutes of quiet seated rest with the back supported and the arm supported at heart level before measuring.