I have trouble taking blood pressure can anyone help?

Question

I just started an EMT class and purchased a Littman Master Classic II stethescope. We are learning vitals and most of the textbook material of the class comes very easy to me. However when I try to take a Blood Pressure on someone (especially in a rig) I cant hear anything. I dont know if I am not concentrating enough but it is often too loud and I cant distinguish any noises let alone the quiet thumping. Any tips or ideas of what I am doing wrong. This whole situation is kind of depressing.

Answer 1

Buy one of the ones that display the read out they are very easy to use and you can take your own.

Answer 2

Have you tried another stethoscope?  Did it come with different diaphragms?  You may have a thick one one, change it to a thin one.  Do you have the head turned in the right direction?  

Check all those things and practice.

Answer 3

Happinessseeker is correct. Make sure the diaphragm of the stethescope is completely covered by skin, but without exerting extra pressure when you are pressing, which will obscure the sounds. Extraneous noise will be picked up by any part of the diaphragm exposed to air. As far as possible, keep the tubes from rubbing against each other, which of course creates a lot of noise as well. Practice in a quiet environment until you have the technique nailed, and your confidence is back. This will help you focus on the sounds and train your ear. Practice practice practice. Once your confidence comes back, you will be a pro. You are probably trying too hard.  Good luck to you.

Answer 4

keep practicing and watch the needle. u will get it.

Answer 5

once you get the hang of it

you'll be able to tell the reading visually with the mercury pulses

( fairly accurately)

Answer 6

i have experienced this problem for pretty long time, here are some tips:

1- make sure the surroundings are COMPLETELY quiet.

2- make sure all those rubber tubes from stethoscope and of the set are not interfered with each other, they must be loose as much as possible.

3- you and the patient MUST BE STILL to avoid noises that you may  hear resulting from frictions.

4- you may increase the air pressure a little bit above the maximum systolic and diastolic then release the air VERY SLOWLY till you hear the first beat.

5- the diaphragm should be placed firm and properly

try those tips and it's guaranteed. hope i helped.