Blodd Pressure Taking

GingerSue · Jul 1, 2007

Is there anything concrete that says we should take a BP on left or right and why? i thought it was most accurate to do the left, but i have been searching for a site that tells where and why if there is such a thing....anyone? Thanks

According to Lewis and Heitkemper:

"BP measurements of both arms should be performed initially to detect any differences between arms. Atherosclerotic narrowing of the subclavian artery can cause a falsely low reading on the side where the narrowing occurs. Therefore the arm with the higher reading should be used for all subsequent BP measurements." and

and Jarvis:

"For each person, verfiy BP in both arms once, either on admission or for the first complete physical examination. Occasionally a 5- to 10-mm Hg difference may occur in BP in the two arms (if values are different, use the higher value)"

Daye · Jul 1, 2007

Is there anything concrete that says we should take a BP on left or right and why? i thought it was most accurate to do the left, but i have been searching for a site that tells where and why if there is such a thing....anyone? Thanks

This is very indirect to your post/question but I cannot help myself in adding that you always want to assess your patient before taking a blood pressure on an arm that has lymphadema, mastectomy, PICC line, IV site, or any other changes that should never have compression applied.