HESI Fundamentals Practice Test Related

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The healthcare professional observes a UAP taking a client's blood pressure in the lower extremity. Which observation of this procedure requires the healthcare professional's intervention?

  • A. The cuff wraps around the girth of the leg.
  • B. The UAP auscultates the popliteal pulse with the cuff on the lower leg.
  • C. The client is placed in a prone position.
  • D. The systolic reading is 20 mm Hg higher than the blood pressure in the client's arm.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When obtaining blood pressure in the lower extremities, the popliteal pulse is the site for auscultation when the blood pressure cuff is applied around the thigh. Auscultating the popliteal pulse with the cuff on the lower leg is incorrect as it may lead to an inaccurate reading. Placing the client in a prone position and wrapping the cuff around the girth of the leg are acceptable practices. A systolic reading that is 20 mm Hg higher in the lower extremity compared to the arm is expected due to the difference in blood pressure between the upper and lower parts of the body.