Any target expressed relative to baseline depends on what the baseline was. A reading taken in the anaesthetic room, from an anxious patient after a long fast, can be higher or lower than usual.
It is established practice to look back at ward or clinic readings, take more than one pre-induction measurement, and document the value used as the reference so that the whole team works to the same number.
- Check ward and pre-assessment blood pressure readings, not just the anaesthetic room value.
- Take at least two readings before induction where time allows.
- Document the baseline you are using and the threshold that will prompt treatment.
- Share the target at the team brief so it is acted on consistently.
Why it matters
A relative target is only as good as the baseline it is measured against.
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