Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

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When using a blood pressure cuff, how much should it be inflated above the baseline systolic measurement?

5-10 mm Hg
10-15 mm Hg
15-25 mm Hg
25-35 mm Hg

The correct answer is: 15-25 mm Hg

When measuring blood pressure with a cuff, it is essential to inflate it to a level that ensures a clear reading while preventing discomfort. The inflation should typically be around 15-25 mm Hg above the baseline systolic measurement. This range allows for accurate detection of the systolic pressure while also ensuring that the pressure within the cuff is sufficient to momentarily occlude arterial flow. If the cuff is inflated below this threshold, it may not fully block flow, resulting in an inaccurate or low systolic reading. Conversely, inflating too much could unnecessarily cause discomfort or even pain to the individual. Therefore, the recommended inflation of 15-25 mm Hg strikes a balance between accuracy and comfort, which is why this choice is considered correct.