During cuff deflation, the onset of which sounds marks the systolic pressure?

During cuff deflation, the onset of which sounds marks the systolic pressure?

• A. First Korotkoff sound
• B. Last Korotkoff sound
• C. Disappearance of sounds
• D. Peak cuff pressure

Answer: (A)

As the cuff deflates, the systolic pressure is marked by the first audible tapping sound. This first Korotkoff sound occurs when the cuff pressure just falls below the systolic pressure, allowing the artery to open briefly with each heartbeat and creating turbulent flow that you hear with a stethoscope. This moment defines systolic blood pressure. As deflation continues, sounds persist through the interval and then disappear when cuff pressure drops below the diastolic pressure, signaling diastolic pressure. The peak cuff pressure is just the initial inflated pressure and does not indicate a BP value. The last Korotkoff sound occurs later in deflation and does not mark systole.

As the cuff deflates, the systolic pressure is marked by the first audible tapping sound. This first Korotkoff sound occurs when the cuff pressure just falls below the systolic pressure, allowing the artery to open briefly with each heartbeat and creating turbulent flow that you hear with a stethoscope. This moment defines systolic blood pressure. As deflation continues, sounds persist through the interval and then disappear when cuff pressure drops below the diastolic pressure, signaling diastolic pressure. The peak cuff pressure is just the initial inflated pressure and does not indicate a BP value. The last Korotkoff sound occurs later in deflation and does not mark systole.