Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse Practice Test 2025 – Comprehensive Exam Preparation

Resting for at least 10 minutes is critical when taking an ankle-brachial index (ABI) because it helps ensure accurate and reliable results. The ABI is a comparison of blood pressure readings in the patient's ankle and arm, which assesses peripheral arterial disease. Allowing the patient to rest helps to stabilize the blood pressure measurements, minimizes the influence of recent physical activity, and ensures that the blood flow is steady. This resting period helps reduce the risk of transient increases in blood pressure that might occur due to recent exertion, providing a clearer picture of the true vascular condition.

The process and interpretation of the ABI are sensitive to the physiological state of the patient, and resting allows for a more precise evaluation of their arterial status. Hence, starting the procedure with an appropriate resting period is essential for achieving accurate assessments of possible arterial blockages.