Study: Arm positions cause incorrect blood pressure readings

Taking blood pressure with a patient’s arm supported on a lap or hanging by the body’s side led to significantly higher blood pressure readings compared with the standardized position, a randomized trial found. Published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the study raised concerns about misdiagnosis or overestimation of hypertension. The authors called for health professionals to use the correct position of arm support on a desk with the mid-cuff positioned at heart level. The study of 133 adults found supporting the arm on the lap overestimated systolic blood pressure by 3.9 Hg and diastolic blood pressure by 4.0 mm Hg. An unsupported arm at the side overestimated systolic blood pressure by 6.5 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by 4.4 mm Hg. (JAMA article, 10/7/24)