How Do You Calculate Systolic & Diastolic Pressure?
Blood pressure is calculated by an instrument called a sphygmomanometer, more commonly referred to as a blood pressure cuff. It measures the power with which blood pumps through the arterial walls of the body. The measurement, however, is never steady. It changes when the body is at rest and when it is undergoing exertion. The general health of the body as well as the condition of the arteries can also influence blood pressure measurement. Place the bare arm in a resting position on a table or chair. It should be slightly bent and level with the heart. Attach the blood pressure cuff around the arm above the bend of the elbow. Make sure that cuff fits snugly. Press the “on” button of an electronic cuff, once it has indicated it is ready. Watch as the cuff inflate to 200. Then, it will deflate slowly flashing two sets of numbers when finished. These are diastolic and systolic measurements. The systolic measurement indicates arterial pressure as the heart contracts. The diastolic measurem
