Progress in cardiovascular nursing
-
Prog Cardiovasc Nurs · Jun 2009
Review Historical ArticleThe arterial pulse wave and vascular compliance.
For just over 1 century, we have relied on cuff sphygmomanometry to measure blood pressure at a peripheral (brachial) site. This measurement provides a quantitative snapshot of hemodynamic activity at 1 part of the arterial tree. ⋯ The noninvasive technique of applanation tonometry allows such measurements to be performed quickly in the nursing clinic. By analyzing the pulse wave and calculating pulse wave velocity, the technique also assesses arterial "stiffness." This method of cardiovascular assessment further enables nurses to monitor the central effects of antihypertensive, lipid lowering, and other drug therapy over time.