automatic BP machines - help!!

[Carolanne]

For some reason, I have trouble getting the cuff on the automatic machines to cooperate. I don't know if I'm not squeezing the air out, or what, but last semester I put the cuff on a pt's arm, started the machine, and the cuff flew off his arm still full of air and was jumping up and down on the bed! Not good! What did I do wrong?

[janleb]

It could be a number of things:

1. it could be inside out

2. Many times, the cuff is disposable, meaning every patient has their own. Try getting a new one, they usually are in the supply room.

3. They are shot the velcro is overused and a new one is needed.

4. Don't rely on the automatic BP machines, If you get an abnormal BP always check it manually. Because it is more reliable, Because soon as you go to the nurse with an abnormal BP she will ask if you got it manually. (just a little advice)

5. If all else fails get a different machine, grab a nurse tech, ( a wonderful resource)

[LisaG]

The cuff was probably inside out. It took me a couple of weeks before I saw the printing that said this side to patient. I'm still checking the cuff before I put it on.

[nialloh, RN]

Originally posted by janleb

It could be a number of things:

1. it could be inside out

2. Many times, the cuff is disposable, meaning every patient has their own. Try getting a new one, they usually are in the supply room.

3. They are shot the velcro is overused and a new one is needed.

4. Don't rely on the automatic BP machines, If you get an abnormal BP always check it manually. Because it is more reliable, Because soon as you go to the nurse with an abnormal BP she will ask if you got it manually. (just a little advice)

5. If all else fails get a different machine, grab a nurse tech, ( a wonderful resource)

That covered just about everything. The only other thing I could think of is the size. If the cuff is too small, it can do this too.