Common Sources Of Error; Fitting The Cuff - ADC ADvantage 6013 Instruction Manual

5.2. Common sources of error:

Note:
Comparable blood pressure measurements always require the same conditions!
These are normally quiet conditions.
• Efforts by the patient to support the arm can increase the blood pressure. Make sure you are in a
comfortable, relaxed position and do not activate any muscles in the measurement arm during
measurement. Use a cushion for support and rest your arm on a table.
• If the upper arm artery lies considerably lower or higher than the heart, a false higher or lower blood
pressure will be measured!
*A variation of 6" between cuff and heart level can result in a reading error of + or - 10mmHg.
• Cuffs that do not fit properly result in false measurement values. Selecting the correct cuff is extremely
important. The cuff size is dependent upon the circumference or distance around your upper arm
measured in the center. The permissible range is printed on the cuff. If this is not suitable for your use,
contact ADC ® .
Note: Use only clinically approved ADC ® cuffs. ADC
• A loose cuff or a sideways protruding air pocket causes false measurement values.
• Repeated measurements without rest allows blood to accumulate in the arm. This can lead to false
results. Measurements should be done after a 5 minute rest to ensure accuracy.

5.3. Fitting the cuff

a) Position the cuff flat on a table with the hook and
loop adhesive side down. Pass the end of the cuff
through the flat metal ring so that a loop is formed.
The hook and loop closure must be facing outward.
(Ignore this step if the cuff has already been prepared.)
b) Place the cuff over the left upper arm so that the tube
is closer to your lower arm.
c) Lay the cuff on the arm as illustrated. Make certain
that the lower edge of the cuff lies approximately
3/4" to 1"(2 to 3cm) above the elbow and that the
tube is closer to the inner side of the arm.
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® cuffs are specially manufactured and tested.
Left Arm
3
/ "-1"
4
Important! The 1" white mark on the cuff must lie exact-
ly over the artery which runs down the inner side of the
arm.
d) Tighten the cuff by pulling the end and close the
cuff by affixing the hook and loop closure.
e) There should be little free space between the arm
and the cuff. You should able to fit 2 fingers between
your arm and the cuff. Clothing must not restrict the
arm. Any piece of clothing which does must be
removed.
f) Lay your arm on a table (palm upward) so the cuff is
at the same height as your heart. Make sure the tube
is not kinked.
g) Remain seated quietly for five minutes
before you begin the measurement.
Comment:
If it is not possible to fit the cuff to your left arm, it can
also be placed on your right arm. However, all
measurements should be made using the same arm.
tube
cuff
tube
1" white mark
proper cuff placement
(inside of inner arm)
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