blood pressure monitoring

emotion/pain/temperature/smoking (nicotine)

BP readings can be inaccurate if the cuff does not fit properly

or the patient has just exercised (some drinking)

blood pressure monitor should be same level with the heart of patient

brachial artery: medial, anterior (palm up), antecubital area

record whether the patient was lying, sitting or standing at the time the reading was obtained

(in case of orthostatic hypotension)

assist the patient into a comfortable, quiet, restful position for 5-10 minutes

remove patient's clothing from the arm