The lower border of the cuff should be placed how far above the elbow crease?

• A. 2.5 cm above the elbow crease
• B. 2.5 cm below the elbow crease
• C. At the elbow crease
• D. On the upper arm near the shoulder

Answer: (A)

Accurate blood pressure measurement depends on placing the cuff so that the bladder sits over the brachial artery in the upper arm, with the lower edge a short distance above the elbow crease. About 2.5 cm (roughly 1 inch) above the antecubital fossa is the standard position. This location centers the artery within the cuff, allows full inflation, and keeps the cuff away from the elbow joint, which helps prevent movement and reading errors. If the cuff is placed too low, below the elbow crease, the artery may not be properly encompassed by the bladder or forearm tissues may be compressed, distorting the reading. If the cuff sits right at or below the elbow crease, it can be awkward and unstable and also yield inaccurate results. Placing it far up toward the shoulder defeats the purpose entirely. Therefore, the lower border should be about 2.5 cm above the elbow crease.