Measuring lying and standing BP - 2

Automatic blood pressure monitors comprise of an electronic monitor with a digital display and a blood pressure cuff. The monitor automatically inflates and deflates the cuff and systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurements are displayed. Sometimes the patient's pulse may also be calculated and displayed. The device is usually battery/mains powered and uses the oscillometric technique (Smith, 2000).

Operators should be aware that automatic monitors may be unreliable in some situations, for example, weak pulse, some abnormal heart rhythms (atrial fibrillation), hypotension associated with shock, tremor and convulsions (Smith, 2000).

All devices for measuring blood pressure should be stored, maintained and calibrated according to manufacturer's guidelines and local policy. Nurses should be competent in using the devices available in their clinical area.

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