What is the correct technique for taking a blood pressure?

The selected answer involves using a sphygmomanometer and stethoscope while the patient is seated and relaxed, which is the standard technique for obtaining an accurate blood pressure reading. This method allows for direct auscultation of the Korotkoff sounds, which are essential for correctly identifying systolic and diastolic blood pressure values.

When a patient is seated, their arm is typically at heart level, reducing the chance of an inaccurate reading due to positioning. It's also important that the patient is relaxed, as anxiety or muscle tension can lead to transient elevations in blood pressure, resulting in a false reading.

This technique provides a reliable and consistent approach, aligning with nursing guidelines and best practices for assessing blood pressure. In contrast, other options may lead to inaccurate measures due to improper positioning or technique. For example, using a digital monitor while standing may not provide the most accurate reading due to possible postural changes affecting blood pressure. Taking a measurement with the patient lying flat can also yield lower readings that do not reflect true blood pressure when the patient is in an upright position. Palpating the pulse at the wrist does not allow for the determination of both systolic and diastolic pressures, which are critical for a comprehensive assessment of blood