12-3
12.2.1 Cuff Selection and Placement
1. Identify the patient limb circumference.
2. Select appropriate cuff; limb circumference is identified on each cuff.
3. Verify the cuff is completely deflated; place cuff around extremity being used and make
sure the marking φ matches artery location.
4. Verify the cuff is not wrapped too tightly around the limb. Excessive tightness may cause
discoloration or ischemia of the extremities.
5. Make sure that the cuff edge falls within the range of the <-> mark. If it does not, use a
larger or smaller cuff that will fit better.
6. The limb chosen for taking the measurement should be placed at the same level as the
patient's heart. If this is not possible, use the following method to correct the measurement
result:
If the cuff is placed higher than the heart level, add 0.75 mmHg (0.10 kPa) for each
centimeter of difference.
If it is placed lower than the heart level, deduct 0.75 mmHg (0.10 kPa) for each centimeter
of difference.
WARNING
z The width of the cuff should be either 40% of the limb circumference (50% for
neonates) or 2/3 of the upper arm length. The inflatable part of the cuff should
be long enough to circle 50-80% of the limb. The wrong size cuff can cause
erroneous readings. If the cuff size is in question, use a larger cuff.
z Do not apply the cuff to a limb that has an intravenous infusion or catheter in
place. This could cause tissue damage around the catheter when infusion is
slowed or blocked during cuff inflation.
z Make sure the air tubing connecting the blood pressure monitor is not blocked,
twisted, or tangled.
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