Standards Procedure (Skill)

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Orthostatic Blood Pressure Measurement

Clinical Indications:                                                               Levels: EMT-B, EMT- D,

                                                                                                             EMT-I, EMT-P

Ø      Patient situations with suspected blood/fluid loss/dehydration.

Ø      Patients > 8 years of age, or patients larger than the Broselow-Luten tape.

Procedure:

a.       Assess the need for orthostatics.

b.      Obtain patient’s pulse and blood pressure while supine.

c.       Assist patient to a standing position and remain standing for one minute.

d.      If pulse increases by 20 BPM or systolic blood pressure decreased by 20 mmHg, the orthostatics are considered positive.

e.       If the patient is unable to stand, orthostatics may be taken while the patient is sitting with feet dangling.

f.        If positive orthostatic changes occur while sitting, DO NOT continue the standing position.

g.       Determine the appropriate treatment based on protocols.

h.       Document the procedure, time, and patient response in the ACR.

Certification Requirements:

Successfully complete an annual skill evaluation including the indications, contraindications, technique, and possible complications of the procedure.