A comparison of two methods of blood pressure measurement.

In current practice, a two-stage approach to measuring blood pressure (BP) has been widely accepted as the most accurate and reliable method. However, by changing the local haemodynamics, this procedure might alter the blood pressure. In a study of 39 subjects, blood pressure was measured using two indirect methods (two-stage and one-stage approaches).

Identifying level one patients. A cross-sectional survey on an in-patient hospital population.

The purpose of this study was to identify the characteristics of level one patients and to explore how these differed from the other levels of care (zero and two). The study was conducted in two parts. Firstly, general adult in-patients (n=351) on the day of study were classified using the Intensive Care Society (ICS) Levels of Care.

Respiratory assessment.

The ability to carry out and document a full respiratory assessment is an essential skill for all nurses. The elements included are: an initial assessment, history taking, inspection, palpation, percussion, auscultation and further investigations. A prompt initial assessment allows immediate evaluation of severity of illness and appropriate treatment measures may warrant instigation at this point.

Interpretation of arterial blood gases: a clinical guide for nurses.

Arterial blood gas analysis has become an essential skill for all healthcare practitioners. It provides important information with regard to adequacy of ventilation, oxygen delivery to the tissues and acid-base balance. Although each patient's clinical presentation will be judged individually, situations that warrant analysis of a blood gas sample include respiratory compromise, post-cardiorespiratory arrest, evaluation of interventions such as oxygen therapy, respiratory support and as a baseline before surgery.