Pulsus paradoxus is a medical sign that can be used to diagnose cardiac tamponade, pericarditis, and other conditions that restrict ventricular filling. It is characterized by a decrease in systolic blood pressure during inspiration.
To check for pulsus paradoxus, you will need to measure the patient’s blood pressure with a sphygmomanometer. Inflate the cuff to 20 mmHg above the patient’s systolic blood pressure and then slowly release the pressure while listening to the Korotkoff sounds. The systolic blood pressure should drop by more than 10 mmHg during inspiration if pulsus paradoxus is present.
