HELP! When taking a blood pressure I sometimes hear a single pulse about 10mm before hearing a steady pulse. Which is the systolic. This is my first job as a M. A. and I am so embarrassed to ask my boss.

Your Professional Title/Credentials: medical assistant

Are You Still In School? no

Are You Working? yet

The first 'thump' is the systolic reading. You should note on the chart if there is a gap of more than 30mm Hg between the first thump and next. When in doubt, palpate the systolic reading instead of using a stethoscope.

Your Professional Title/Credentials: CCMA

Are You Still In School? No

Are You Working? Yes

You may want to do a search on Korotkoff sounds. There are actually 5 different sounds or phases to a blood pressure, varying in intensities. The first sound you hear is the systolic BP.

Your Professional Title/Credentials: CNA/RMA/LPN

Are You Still In School? yes

Are You Working? yes