Checklist Measuring Blood Pressure (Palpation Method) Steps Mark Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Comment 1. Identify the patient. 2. Explain the procedure to the patient. 3. Collect (prepare) and check equipment. 4. Put the patient in sitting or supine position. 5. Wash hands. 6. Clean the earpieces of the stethoscope with spirit swab. 7. Be sure the manometer is positioned vertically at eye level. 8. Support patient's forearm at heart level with palm upward. 9. Uncover patient's left upper arm. 10. Wrap the deflated cuff evenly around the upper arm, placing the lower edge 2.5–5 cm above the brachial artery. 11. Place the stethoscope in your ears and check diaphragm by tapping. 12. Make sure to open the mercury column. 13. Palpate brachial/radial pulse; close valve; inflate cuff noting level where pulse disappears. 14. Deflate cuff quickly and wait 30 seconds; tighten valve. 15. Assist patient to comfortable position and cover arm. 16. Tell patient the blood pressure reading. 17. Wash hands. 18. Record and report any abnormalities.