Vol. XXVII No. 3 JOURNAL OF VASCULAR NURSING PAGE 81

www.jvascnurs.net

(2 brachial, 2 posterior tibial, 2 dorsalis pedis). Raters measured 10

individuals using one Model L250AC, 8 MHz bi-directional Sum-

mit Doppler, four straight vascular cuffs with detachable Ameri-

can Diagnostic Corporation (ADC) manometers with trigger

style air release inflators, and four ADC Model 703 palm aneroid

sphygmomanometers with detachable cuffs and trigger release

inflators with manometers.

Inter-rater reliability and intra-rater reliability were determined

through Interclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC). Intra-rater reli-

ability for determining ABI values was weak for standard cuffs

(ICC = 0.42-0.63) and moderate to strong for vascular cuffs (ICC

= 0.70-0.87). Inter-rater reliability was moderate to strong for both

cuffs (ICC = 0.83-0.96). Reliability of vascular versus standard cuffs

using mean trial values were strong (ICC = 0.77-0.88). If sphygmo-

manometers were used instead of vascular cuffs, it will take an aver-

age of two readings to obtain reliable ABI values. The results of this

study recommend the vascular cuff for reliable systolic readings.

The University of the District of Columbia Research Infra-

structure in Minority Institutions (http://www.udc.edu/rimi/)

2008 grant was the funding source.

P9

Accurate Blood Pressure Measurement Technique

Monica Kincade, RN, CVN

Peripheral Vascular Associates, San Antonio, Texas

Blood pressure measurements have been a mainstay of patient

assessment since the procedure was developed by Nokolai

Korotkoff in 1905. This poster illustrates the steps to obtain an

accurate blood pressure measurement and the implications of inac-

curate measurements. Blood pressure measurements are obtained

by providers, nurses, medical assistants, and students of healthcare

studies. The results of the measurements are utilized to monitor

current health status, determine a need for therapeutic interven-

tion, and monitor the effect of interventions. Discrepancies in

measurements can significantly impact patient health and can

tax the limited resources of healthcare institutions, clinics, and

patients. Errors in blood pressure measurements as slight as +/-

5mmHg can adversely affect the healthcare of millions by contrib-

uting to a diagnosis of hypertension in normotensive individuals;

as a result, these individuals are often exposed to pharmacologic

interventions which carry risks of adverse drug reactions as well

as a financial burden. Conversely, an individual with an elevated

blood pressure could be overlooked and untreated. This poster will

identify that a dependable protocol for blood pressure measure-

ment utilizing the standards of appropriate environment, position,

equipment, and analysis can result in an initiative to provide accu-

rate data for diagnosis and subsequent management of blood pres-

sure problems.

P10

Now That I Am An ABI Trainer - Who Do I Train?

Jo-Anna McGrath, RN, BSN

Northwestern Medical Faculty Foundation, Chicago, Illinois

Becoming an Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) trainer is an impor-

tant step in being able to demonstrate the proper technique for

doing ABIs to other healthcare professionals. The Society of Vas-

cular Nurses is taking the initiative in training vascular nurses in

this skill as part of the broader goal of educating health care pro-

viders regarding Peripheral Vascular Disease (PAD). However

some nurses may be unsure how to promote the use of an ABI

to their colleagues after taking the training sessions. I will share

how I put together a program incorporating the use of the ABI

and the proper technique in cardiovascular assessments. I will

also show some of the strategies I used to make connections

with schools and other healthcare facilities.

P11

Early Detection of Vascular Disease In An Indigent Clinic

Linda Andrews, RN, BEd, CRC

Jobst Vascular Center, Toledo, Ohio

Early detection of vascular disease in an indigent clinic can

lead to prompt treatment and management. The primary objective

of this study was to identify patients with vascular disease through

a free screening program offered at an indigent clinic. This clinic

provides primary health care services to those who are uninsured

and under-insured. Thirty-nine patients were seen by a vascular

nurse. A history and physical was obtained and the Walking Im-

pairment Questionnaire (WIQ) and Quality of Life SF-12 Survey

(SF-12) were completed. In addition, the vascular nurse measured

the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI), provided education about both

arterial and venous diseases, and risk factor management. Of these

39 patients: 15 (38%) were referred to the vascular fellows clinic

for additional diagnostic testing and treatment. Eleven (28%) had

arterial disease with ABI<.89; 4 (10%) had venous disease as

evidence by clinical assessment of swelling, pigment changes,

and varicosities. Most were female (64%), African-American

(43%), did not complete high school (69%), and were currently

unemployed (84.6%). Mean age was 56.4 years. Sixty-four

percent had hypertension, 61% were former or current cigarette

smokers, and 76.9% were overweight with BMI >25. The WIQ

and SF-12 are currently being analyzed. Although this study is

in process, preliminary findings suggest that this approach is use-

ful in detecting disease in an indigent population and providing

subsequent follow-up care with a vascular specialist for prompt

treatment. Results of WIQ and SF-12 may further our understand-

ing of the impact of the disease on indigent patient quality of life.

P12

Behavioral Changes of Patients After ParticipationIn A Free Vascular Screening

Susan Shuman, BSN, RN

Jobst Vascular Center, Toledo, Ohio

Vascular screening are offered in many health care settings,

however, evidence supporting their benefit is lacking. Little is

known whether these screenings, vascular nurse counseling, and

educational materials have an effect on subsequent changes in

behavior. A random sample of 30 participants from the screening

registry was selected for follow-up evaluation by a vascular nurse.

These subjects were over 50 years of age, 20 women and 10 men.