Routine Tests Part 3

Blood pressure measurement and ECGs

Routine tests and monitoring are key to the day-to-day work of practice nurses and intrinsic to the management of long-term conditions, health screening and promotion, and the management of minor illnesses and injuries. It is therefore important that nurses maintain their practical and clinical skills to the highest standards.¹

This resource, consisting of five assessment questions at basic level, tests your knowledge of the theory of, and best practice when taking a blood pressure and recording an electrocardiogram (ECG). Complete the resource, including reading the featured articles and undertaking some or all of the suggested activities, to obtain a certificate for one hour of continuing professional development to include in your annual portfolio.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this resource, you should be able to:

• Explain what is meant by blood pressure
• Understand the importance of the correct selection and use of devices
• Appreciate the importance of maintaining equipment appropriately
• Understand the importance of patient information and consent
• Appreciate the need for ensuring appropriate delegation

References

1. Nursing and Midwifery Council. Code of professional conduct: standards for conduct, performance and ethics, 2008. 

Education for Health courses

Essentials of Primary Care Nursing – 5 one day workshops