Categories: Scrubs

2011: The year of the BABE

If one nurse has her way, 2011 will be the year of the BABE.
Caril Sebastian, a Registered Nurse and author, has coined the term, which stands for Blood pressure Awareness through Basic Education. In a press release, SebastianÂ encourages nurses to “give patients the finger” in 2011 — to use two fingers to palpate the brachial artery before inflating the blood pressure cuff and taking a measurement.

Sebastian says her campaign is based in part on her observation that patients and care providers develop rapport through the use of simple, therapeutic touch. Brachial palpation is also an essential part of proper blood pressure assessment. According to the Centers for Disease Control, almost one-third of all American adults suffer from hypertension.

The Year of the BABE will officially launch on January 11, 2011 with the announcement of a video contest, “I Want the BABE.”

What do you think of the BABE campaign — especially in light of recent crusades to downplay the sexy nurse stereotype?

Jennifer Fink, RN, BSN

Jennifer is a professional freelance writer with over eight years experience as a hospital nurse. She has clinical experience in adult health, including med-surg, geriatrics and transplant; she also has a particular interest in women’s health and cancer care. Jennifer has written a variety of health and parenting articles for national publications.