The nurse is assessing a client's blood pressure. The client asks the nurse why it is important to feel for his pulse prior to taking his blood pressure. Which response by the nurse is the most appropriate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Feeling for the pulse prior to taking blood pressure helps to ensure accuracy of the reading. This is because the pulse provides an estimate of the client's systolic blood pressure, which is helpful in selecting the appropriate size cuff and determining the appropriate inflation level. This can lead to a more accurate blood pressure reading. Option A is not the most appropriate response as it does not answer the client's question. Option B is not appropriate as it could cause unnecessary anxiety for the client. Option D is not correct as feeling for the pulse is not the best way to determine arterial obstruction.

The Nurse Is Assessing a Client's Blood Pressure