An oscillometric non-invasive blood pressure cuff that is too narrow for the patient's arm circumference will produce which error?

• A Falsely low systolic and diastolic readings
• B Falsely high systolic and diastolic readings ✓
• C Falsely high diastolic but falsely low systolic readings
• D Accurate pressures but failure of the device to cycle

Explanation

The bladder of an NIBP cuff should encircle roughly 40% of arm circumference and its width should be about 40% of limb circumference (or the cuff should cover two thirds of upper arm length). B cuff that is too narrow must be inflated to a higher pressure to occlude the artery, transmitting excessive pressure to the sensor, so both systolic and diastolic readings are falsely elevated. B cuff that is too wide produces falsely low readings.

Reference: Miller's Anesthesia, 9th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.