“What does the stethoscope actually do?” a first-year student asks. “Have you ever taken a manual blood pressure?” a senior replies.
That exchange captured the spirit of this year’s GPSN UNSW Blood Pressure Screening Training Night, where more than 160 students learnt the fundamentals of blood pressure measurement and gained hands-on experience using manual cuffs under the guidance of senior medical students and the GPSN UNSW team.
Held last month in the Wallace Wurth Building, the evening began with an introductory presentation covering the principles of blood pressure measurement, the sounds of Korotkoff, correct technique for manual blood pressure recording, and interpretation of systolic and diastolic readings. A live demonstration then showed participants how to correctly use a stethoscope and manual blood pressure cuff.
Students were then divided into small groups for practical training, each supervised by a senior medical student who guided them through the steps of manual blood pressure measurement. Supervisors provided feedback, assessed technique and reinforced key principles to help participants build confidence and competency.
The training will prepare students to participate in upcoming GPSN community blood pressure screening initiatives at Ashfield and Randwick Mall later this year, putting their new skills into practice while supporting community health.
