Where should they put the blood pressure cuff?

Jaanee

I've heard bits and pieces about blood pressure cuffs.  

I've had a lymph node removed from the right side. Then bilateral mastectomies with reconstruction. Unfortunately one side failed and is now back to being a mastectomy. I also have a blood clot in my left arm (due to IV after surgery). During my recent hospitalization for an infection my left arm was declared off-limits for BP and IV. The other day my GP's nurse decided to leave it up to the doc on where or if to take my BP because she wasn't sure which arm to use.

So, should I be sticking my leg out when people come at me with a BP cuff?  

Anonymous

For me, I don't give them a choice.  They get the left arm (since my sentinel node and orginal cancer was on the right) to use, case closed.  It's what my surgeon told me to do and that's what I've been sticking with.  I figure after everything else that has transpired, the last thing we need is lymphdema if we can prevent it.

leonbakhan

Well I will tell you.. It is not only that Arms can or should be used to check blood pressure. There are other places and the next place is thighs .. just above the knees. Also  an addition of about 10 degrees is made to the reading recorded.

And if your right arm is ok that can be used.

Nowadays there are electronic ultrasensitive monitors that record these things, but their availability is limited to hospitals.

I hope your  question is answered..

You can ask  as many questions..as you like.

Blessings