The right arm is generally preferred for blood pressure measurement.
While taking blood pressure in both arms is ideal to avoid underestimating hypertension, using the right arm is recommended if only a single-arm measurement is available, especially for women. This recommendation stems from studies that have identified potential differences in blood pressure readings between arms. Here’s a breakdown:
Why the Right Arm?
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Consistent Readings: Studies suggest that blood pressure readings in the right arm tend to be slightly higher and more consistent with central aortic pressure compared to the left arm.
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Clinical Guidelines: Many clinical guidelines recommend using the right arm as the standard for blood pressure measurement to ensure uniformity and reduce variability.
Single vs. Double-Arm Measurements
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Ideal Scenario: Taking measurements in both arms simultaneously offers the most accurate assessment.
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Underestimation Risk: Using only one arm for measurement can underestimate the prevalence of hypertension.
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Reference Information: According to studies, single-arm measurements might underestimate hypertension prevalence compared to double-arm measurements. However, the right arm is the preferred choice for measurement of BP if only one arm is available.
Practical Implications
When taking blood pressure:
- Ideally, measure blood pressure in both arms during the initial assessment.
- If there's a consistent difference of 10 mmHg or more between arms, use the arm with the higher reading for future measurements.
- If measuring in only one arm, use the right arm as the standard, particularly in women.
