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Blood pressure measurement by community dentists
M A Pyle1, D R Sawyer, T R Jasinevicius
1Department of Oral Diagnosis & Radiology, Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) School of Dentistry, Cleveland, OH 44106-4905, USA.
Summary
Many dentists do not routinely measure blood pressure (BP) in new patients, especially younger ones or those over 65. This vital sign screening is inconsistently applied in dental practices, indicating a need for improved compliance.
Area of Science:
- Oral healthcare
- Public health
- Preventive medicine
Background:
- Blood pressure (BP) measurement is a standard part of dental school curricula for patient evaluation.
- Previous studies highlight inconsistent completion of preventive procedures like oral cancer exams in dental settings.
- The frequency and criteria for BP measurement by practicing dentists remain under-examined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the frequency of blood pressure measurement among practicing dentists.
- To identify factors influencing the decision to measure BP in dental patients.
- To understand variations in BP screening based on patient demographics and dentist characteristics.
Main Methods:
- A telephone survey was conducted with practicing dentists in a Midwest metropolitan area.
- Two hundred four responses were analyzed, focusing on BP measurement practices.
- Data collection included patient age, medical diagnosis, and dentist's graduation year and program completion (AEGD/GPR).
Main Results:
- 57.4% of dentists do not check BP in new patients over 65; 74% do not check BP in new patients under 30.
- 14% of surveyed dentists reported never measuring BP.
- Significant variations in BP measurement practices were observed based on dentist's graduation year and postgraduate training.
Conclusions:
- There is considerable variability in blood pressure measurement practices among dentists.
- Compliance with BP screening protocols appears low and inconsistent.
- Further research is needed to identify barriers to consistent BP measurement and other health-promotion measures in dental practice.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Sites for measuring blood pressure
Blood pressure measurement is a fundamental clinical procedure, providing crucial data for assessing cardiovascular health. Among the various sites for this measurement, the brachial and popliteal arteries are predominantly utilized due to their accessibility and the reliability of their readings. This lesson delves into the anatomical significance, methodology, and considerations of measuring blood pressure at these locations.
The Brachial Artery: Primary Site for Blood Pressure Measurement
The Brachial Artery: Primary Site for Blood Pressure Measurement
01:30Equipments Used To Measure Blood Pressure
Direct Method
This invasive approach involves cannulating a peripheral artery. During each cardiac contraction, pressure generates mechanical motion within the catheter, transmitted through rigid, fluid-filled tubing to a transducer. This transducer converts mechanical motion into electrical signals displayed as waveforms on a monitor. An automatic flushing system prevents blood backflow. Due to the potential risk of unexpected arterial blood loss, this method is primarily used in intensive...
This invasive approach involves cannulating a peripheral artery. During each cardiac contraction, pressure generates mechanical motion within the catheter, transmitted through rigid, fluid-filled tubing to a transducer. This transducer converts mechanical motion into electrical signals displayed as waveforms on a monitor. An automatic flushing system prevents blood backflow. Due to the potential risk of unexpected arterial blood loss, this method is primarily used in intensive...
01:15Assessment of blood pressure in brachial artery(one-step method)
This procedural guide systematically measures blood pressure using an oscillometric digital sphygmomanometer, emphasizing accuracy, patient safety, and comfort.
Prepare for the Procedure:
Prepare for the Procedure:
01:23Assessment of blood pressure in brachial artery(two-step method)
Measuring blood pressure is a fundamental skill in healthcare that aids in diagnosing and monitoring hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions. An aneroid sphygmomanometer, commonly used in clinical settings, offers a manual and precise method for blood pressure measurement. The technique for using this instrument involves specific steps that must be carefully executed to ensure accuracy. The following detailed description outlines a two-step technique for assessing blood pressure using...
01:28Special considerations while measuring blood pressure
When assessing blood pressure (BP), healthcare professionals must consider various factors and potential unexpected outcomes to ensure accurate readings and provide proper patient care. Adhering to these guidelines is essential to achieving the most reliable results.
Monitoring Both Arms:
Monitoring BP in both arms during the initial assessment is advisable, as the systolic value may differ by five to ten mm Hg between arms. For subsequent BP assessments, use the arm with the higher reading.
Monitoring Both Arms:
Monitoring BP in both arms during the initial assessment is advisable, as the systolic value may differ by five to ten mm Hg between arms. For subsequent BP assessments, use the arm with the higher reading.
01:17Measurement of Blood Pressure
Assessing blood pressure is a standard procedure executed in virtually all medical environments. The method utilized today was established over a hundred years ago by an innovative Russian doctor, Dr. Nikolai Korotkoff. The soft ticking noise, known as Korotkoff sounds, heard while taking blood pressure readings results from turbulent blood flow within the vessels. The apparatus required for this procedure includes a sphygmomanometer, a blood pressure cuff attached to a gauge, and a stethoscope.