Taking BP on pt. with pacemaker

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I've heard both sides, that it is NOT OK, and some say that it is. (I do not recall learning about this in school, although I do avoid the left arm if pt does have a pacemaker, I guess instinctively). Is it still evidence-based to restrict taking BP's on the left arm with a pacemaker on the left side? I cannot find anything online regarding this.. I want to know what nurses here have to say ;)

Specializes in ED.

what P_RN said

since 82 no issues

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Good question though. Made me think. Love that.

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Specializes in Critical Care/Coronary Care Unit,.

From what I learned it doesn't matter which arm you take the blood pressure on if the pt has a pacemaker. It's different if the pt had a mastectomy or an AV fistula...but never heard anyone mention anything regarding a pacemaker.

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Pacers and ICDs are placed in a vein then into the heart via the superior vena cave. (NOT an artery.) Therefore, there would be no issues with the blood pressure on the affective side. There has been reports of venous swelling on the affective side do to occlusion of the vein with the leads.

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I recently took care of a resident wth a new pacemaker implanted and there weren't any restrictions in taking BP Lt arm in the d/c instructions.

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