I Am Going to Check Your Blood Pressure in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign “I am going to check your blood pressure” is often used in medical settings when a healthcare professional communicates with a patient. In the UK Deaf community, it’s important to convey health-related information clearly, ensuring that the Deaf person understands what to expect during a medical examination.

How to Sign “I Am Going To Check Your Blood Pressure”

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape (like a “B” handshape) facing down, positioned near your chest.
2. Move your hand forward slightly as you look towards the person you are speaking to, indicating the action of “going to.”
3. Next, form both hands into a “C” handshape, with your non-dominant hand held stationary and your dominant hand moving in a circular motion above it, suggesting the action of “checking.”
4. For “blood pressure,” use your dominant hand to form a “B” handshape again, placing it on your wrist or forearm as if feeling for a pulse. This indicates the area where blood pressure is usually measured.
5. Maintain a calm and reassuring facial expression throughout the sign, showing you are here to help.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use facial expressions to convey the intent, which is crucial in BSL.
• Not using the correct handshapes, which can change the meaning of the sign.
• Failing to establish clear eye contact, which is essential in Deaf communication.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “I am going to check your blood pressure” uses a more descriptive approach with specific handshapes and movements. In contrast, ASL may have a different sign for blood pressure and may incorporate different movements and spatial relationships. It’s important to understand these cultural differences when learning BSL and ASL.

Related Signs

• 1 – The sign for the number one.
• 11 – The sign for the number eleven.
• 100 – The sign for the number one hundred.
• 10 – The sign for the number ten.
• 12 – The sign for the number twelve.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use this sign in a sentence?

You can use it by placing the topic first: “I am going to check your blood pressure,” followed by the sign.

Are there regional variations for this sign in the UK?

While the sign is generally consistent, some regional variations in facial expressions and speed may exist.

What are some signs similar to this one?

Similar signs include “I am going to take your temperature” or “I am going to give you a check-up.”

What tips can help me learn this sign better?

Practice with a Deaf friend or teacher and use video resources to observe the sign in context.

Can I sign this in a group setting?

Yes, just ensure your facial expressions and movements are visible to everyone in the group.

How important is eye contact when signing?

Eye contact is crucial in BSL; it shows engagement and helps convey meaning.