Best Practices for Quality PWV Measurements

Fitting the Femoral Cuff

Note: To ensure reliable readings, place the thigh cuff over bare skin or thin clothing.

1. Place the cuff around the patient's upper thigh with the tube on top of the leg and facing upward (toward the patient's head).
2. Wrap the cuff firmly but not too tightly.
3. Ensure the cuff fits neatly without bunching or twisting.

Patient Preparation for PWV

The same preparation guidelines apply as for PWA measurements. The patient should:

• Have abstained from alcohol for at least 6 hours.
• Have abstained from tobacco and caffeine for at least 4 hours.
• Have fasted for at least 6 hours (a light meal is acceptable if fasting is not possible).
• Have rested in a seated or supine position for at least 5 minutes.
• Remain relaxed and avoid talking during the measurement.
• Ideally be measured at the same time of day for follow-up visits.

Tonometer Technique

1. Remove the tonometer from its storage holder. Hold the base gently but firmly between the thumb and fingers.
2. Locate the patient's carotid artery by palpation and identify the point of strongest pulse.
3. Press the tonometer gently but firmly against the patient's neck at the strongest pulse point.
4. Maintain steady pressure throughout the measurement.
5. If the waveform trace is flat at the top of the screen, reduce pressure. If it is flat at the bottom, increase pressure.
6. Make minor adjustments until the waveforms are uniform in shape and height. The Guidance Bars will display in red (too much variation), yellow (moderate variation), or green (acceptable variation) to help guide correct placement.