Home › CNA Practice Tests › Basic Nursing Skills Questions › Question 48
How fast should air be released from the cuff while listening for Korotkoff sounds?
- A.As fast as possible to finish the task quickly
- B.In large bursts of pressure all at once
- C.Only after the resident reports arm numbness
- D.Slowly and steadily so each sound can be heard clearly
Correct answer
D. Slowly and steadily so each sound can be heard clearly
Why
Releasing air slowly and steadily, usually about 2 to 3 mmHg per second, lets the assistant identify the first and last sounds accurately. Deflating too fast can cause systolic or diastolic points to be missed.
Content outline: Basic Nursing Skills - Vital Signs: Blood Pressure · From the Basic Nursing Skills practice bank (BN-048).