Question

On manual blood pressure, which of the following provides the best estimate of the true diastolic blood pressure

A. The point where the Korotkoff sounds change from sharp, thumping sounds to a softer, swishing quality
B. The point where the Korotkoff sounds become muffled and then disappear
C. The point where the Korotkoff sounds first become audible
D. The point where the Korotkoff sounds completely disappear after initially becoming muffled

Answer 1

The true diastolic blood pressure during a manual measurement is determined at the point where the Korotkoff sounds completely disappear after initially becoming muffled, indicating smooth blood flow.

Step-by-step explanation:

When performing a manual blood pressure measurement, the best estimate of the true diastolic blood pressure is found at the point where the Korotkoff sounds completely disappear after initially becoming muffled. The Korotkoff sounds are turbulent blood flow sounds heard while using a stethoscope during the deflation of the blood pressure cuff. Initially, no sounds are heard as the cuff's pressure is above systolic pressure, suppressing blood flow. As the pressure in the cuff is slowly reduced, sounds begin at the systolic pressure level. When the pressure equals the diastolic pressure, the blood flows smoothly, and the Korotkoff sounds disappear, marking the diastolic blood pressure.