Here are five things to know from the study:
- Researchers from Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore studied the effect different arm positions had during blood pressuring screenings. The arm positions were supported on a desk, supported on a lap and unsupported at the patient’s side.
- Researchers measured the blood pressure of 133 adult participants ages 18 to 80 between Aug. 9, 2022, and June 1, 2023.
- When a patient’s arm was supported on their lap, systolic blood pressure was overestimated by 3.9 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure was overestimated by 4.0 mmHg.
- When a patient’s arm was unsupported at their side, systolic blood pressure was overestimated by 6.5 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure was overestimated by 4.4 mmHg.
- Current American Heart Association guidelines recommend back support, uncrossed legs with feet flat on the floor and an arm supported on a desk or table with the blood pressure cuff at mid-heart level.
Read the full study methodology and results here.
At the Becker's 23rd Annual Spine, Orthopedic and Pain Management-Driven ASC + The Future of Spine Conference, taking place June 11-13 in Chicago, spine surgeons, orthopedic leaders and ASC executives will come together to explore minimally invasive techniques, ASC growth strategies and innovations shaping the future of outpatient spine care. Apply for complimentary registration now.
