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Chapter Three: Blood Pressure Measurement with ALEX/AXEL

Szabolcs Arnoczki avatar
Written by Szabolcs Arnoczki
Updated this week

This ALEX/AXEL article's feature spotlight is on blood pressure measurement using radial pulse palpation and Korotkoff sounds.

Blood Pressure by Radial Palpation

To measure BP by radial pulse palpation, you’ll need your SmartCuff:

  • Start a simulation, such as Alex Adams with BP set at 132/64 (or your chosen value).

  • Wrap the SmartCuff around the upper arm (either side, except the IV arm).

  • Palpate the radial pulse—you’ll feel it immediately.

  • Inflate the cuff to 160mmHg—the pulse should disappear.

  • Slowly deflate—the pulse returns at 132mmHg (or your set systolic value).

  • A log entry confirms successful BP measurement.

Blood Pressure by Korotkoff Sounds

For BP measurement with Korotkoff sounds, you’ll need both your SmartCuff and SmartScope:

  • Check your SmartScope™ by listening to a few auscultation sounds first.

  • Wrap the SmartCuff around the upper arm.

  • Place the SmartScope on the brachial artery.

  • Inflate the cuff to 160mmHg—you won’t hear anything at first.

  • Slowly deflate—Korotkoff sounds begin at 132mmHg (systolic) and stop at 64mmHg (diastolic) (or your set values).

This feature ensures realistic BP training with both palpation and auscultation methods.

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