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4. Position the Stethoscope
Position the chestpiece in the antecubital space below the cuff, distal to the brachium. Do
not place chestpiece underneath the cuff, as this impedes accurate measurement. Use the
bell side of a combination stethoscope for clearest detection of the low pitched Korotkoff
(pulse) sounds.
5. Deflate the cuff
Open the valve to deflate the cuff gradually at a rate of 2-3 mmHg per second.
6. Measurement
Record the onset of Korotkoff sounds as the systolic pressure, and the disappearance of
these sounds as diastolic pressure. (Some healthcare professionals recommend recording
diastolic 1 and diastolic 2. Diastolic one occurs at phase 4).
NOTE:
It is recommended that K4 be used in children aged 3 to 12, and K5 should be
used for pregnant female patients unless sounds are audible with the cuff deflated, in
which case K4 should be used. K5 should be used for all other adult patients.
After measurement is completed, open valve fully to release any remaining air in the cuff.
Remove cuff.
Care and Maintenance
STORAGE:
Pocket Gauge:
After measurement, fully exhaust cuff then wrap cuff around gauge and
bulb and store in zippered carrying case.
Palm Gauge:
After measurement, fully exhaust cuff and store in zippered carrying case.
If unit will not be used for an extended period of time, leave the trigger valve in the full ex-
haust position.
Clock Gauge:
After measurement, fully exhaust cuff then wrap cuff around bulb and store
in storage compartment.
