How are blood pressure readings written?

How are blood pressure readings written?

We record this with the systolic pressure first (on the top) and the diastolic pressure second (below). For example, if the systolic pressure is 120 mmHg (millimetres of mercury) and the diastolic pressure is 80 mmHg, we would describe the blood pressure as ‘120 over 80’, written 120/80.

How do you interpret systolic and diastolic?

When a healthcare professional takes your blood pressure, it’s expressed as a measurement with two numbers, one number on top (systolic) and one on the bottom (diastolic), like a fraction. For example, 120/80 mm Hg. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury. That’s what the mm/Hg stands for.

What do the numbers mean when you do your blood pressure?

Systolic blood pressure, the top number, measures the force your heart exerts on the walls of your arteries each time it beats. Diastolic blood pressure, the bottom number, measures the force your heart exerts on the walls of your arteries in between beats.

How does a blood pressure cuff measure blood pressure?

The cuff then inflates until it fits tightly around your arm, cutting off your blood flow, and then the valve opens to deflate it. As the cuff reaches your systolic pressure, blood begins to flow around your artery. This creates a vibration that’s detected by the meter, which records your systolic pressure.

What does it mean when diastolic blood pressure is high?

A high diastolic reading (equal to or greater than 120 mmHg) is linked to a higher risk of disease involving the large artery called the aorta that carries blood and oxygen from the heart to distant body parts.

How to accurately measure your blood pressure?

Choose the right equipment:

Prepare the patient: Make sure the patient is relaxed by allowing 5 minutes to relax before the first reading.

Choose the proper BP cuff size: Most measurement errors occur by not taking the time to choose the proper cuff size.

What is the most accurate blood pressure measurement?

Measuring blood pressure. When you have taken your blood pressure, you can get your top number and bottom number. Normal blood pressure is less than 120 over 80 (120/80). The two numbers refer to your systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

What artery is used to measure blood pressure?

When we measure blood pressure, we are measuring the pressure in the arteries. Usually, we measure the pressure in the brachial artery, although it is possible to measure blood pressure in other arteries as well.