Small errors in technique shift readings by several mmHg, which is enough to move a patient across a category boundary. The patient should sit quietly for a few minutes with back supported, feet flat and arm supported at heart level, without talking.
Use a cuff sized to the arm: a small cuff on a large arm overestimates. Take at least two readings a minute or two apart and use the average. Measure both arms at the first visit and use the higher arm thereafter.
- Seat the patient for a few minutes, back supported, feet flat, arm at heart level
- Choose the cuff by arm circumference; too small reads high
- Take two or more readings and average them
- Check both arms at the first visit and use the higher one
- Confirm raised office readings with home or ambulatory monitoring
Why it matters
A badly taken reading can label or miss hypertension on its own.
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