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9
APPLYING YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE CUFF
Before applying your blood pressure cuff, be sure you have
selected the appropriate size cuff:
Adult Cuff fits arm circumference 11” - 16.375” (27.9-41.7 cm)
If for any reason you are unable to or should not use your left arm,
please modify the instructions for cuff application to your right
arm. Your physician can help you identify which arm is best for
you.
1. Remove any constrictive clothing or jewelry that may
interfere with cuff placement.
2. Be seated at a table or desk with your feet flat on the floor.
3. Extend your left arm. Find your brachial artery, which is at the
inner aspect (bend) of your elbow, Fig 1. You may be able to
feel your pulse. The artery patch should point to the brachial
artery when the cuff is applied.
4. Open the cuff creating a circle that you can slide your arm
into; do not extend the cuff beyond the metal bar.
5. Insert your left arm into the cuff. Position the bottom edge
of the cuff approximately one-half inch ABOVE your elbow;
when taking your reading, the stethoscope chestpiece must
directly touch the inside of your arm, over your brachial artery.
6. With your arm extended, palm facing upward and tubes positioned down the center of
your arm, Fig 2-3, use your right hand to pull the end of the cuff and secure the hook and
loop material. Make sure that the artery mark is still pointed to your brachial artery.
7. The cuff should fit comfortably, yet snugly around your arm. You should be able to insert
one finger easily between your arm and the cuff.
If you are not comfortable with applying your cuff, please seek the assistance of another
member of your household or work with your physician to practice the cuff application.
Incorrectly applied cuffs may result in inaccurate readings.
Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Fig. 3