Noninvasive blood pressure monitoring.

Expected Practice: Measure blood pressure (BP) in the upper arm using the oscillatory or auscultatory method. [Level D] o If upper arms cannot be used for BP measurement or if the maximum size BP cuff does not fit the upper arm, blood pressure may be measured in the forearm. o Consider use of thigh and calf for BP measurement if the upper arms and forearms cannot be used. Use appropriate size BP cuff and follow instructions for fit and placement per manufacturer’s recommendations. [Level D] Measure baseline BP in both upper arms. For significant differences in BP, use the arm with the higher pressure. [Level D] Position patient: As with intra-arterial blood pressure monitoring, the appropriate reference level for noninvasive measurement of blood pressure is the heart. [Level D]