1. Blood Pressure The measurement of the force of blood against artery walls when the heart contracts or relaxes

2. How is a B/P measured? You need a: blood pressure cuff (sphygmomanometer) Stethoscope The BP cuff must fit the arm properly Listen for the first and last sound (Korotkoff sounds) Korotkoff Blood Pressure Sights and Sounds on Vimeo

3. Norms Systolic pressure occurs when the Left ventricle is contracting Normal=100-140 mmHg (millimeters mercury) Diastolic pressure is the constant pressure in the arteries when the left ventricle of the heart is at rest Normal= 60-90 mmHg (millimeters mercury)

4. How it’s written Always write the Systolic # over the Diastolic # Ex: 120/80 140/90

5. Abnormals Hypertension BP greater than 140/90 Hypotension BP less than 100/60

6. What causes Hypotension? Medications Level of physical fitness Hemorrhage Dehydration Standing too fast

7. What does Hypotension feel like? Dizziness Light-headed Faint Blurred vision

8. What causes Hypertension? Stress Anxiety Obesity High-salt intake Aging

9. What does Hypertension feel like? There may be no symptoms Headache Malaise-tired feeling Ringing in the ears