New research findings suggest that a significant number of individuals may receive incorrect diagnoses of high blood pressure due to inaccurate measurement techniques. The American Heart Association strongly advises that blood pressure measurements should be conducted with the patient seated in a supported position, but it appears that many healthcare professionals deviate from this recommended procedure. The research reveals notable disparities between blood pressure readings obtained on an examination table and those taken while the patient is seated, in accordance with the guidelines.
The study underscores the potential consequences of improper blood pressure measurement techniques, which could result in millions of individuals being misclassified as having hypertension. The established guidelines from the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology stipulate that patients should be seated in a chair with their feet flat on the floor, their back supported, and the arm wearing the blood pressure cuff supported at heart level to ensure accuracy. Regrettably, many healthcare providers opt to measure blood pressure while the patient is seated on an examination table, leaving their legs dangling and their back and arm unsupported.
Dr. Randy Wexler, a primary care physician at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, who presented this research at the AHA’s Scientific Sessions conference in Philadelphia, emphasized that this practice is not conducive to obtaining accurate blood pressure measurements.
The consequences of misclassifying individuals with high blood pressure can be significant, as it may lead to unnecessary treatments with potential side effects. Therefore, accurate blood pressure measurements are of paramount importance.
The study involved 150 adults who were randomly assigned to different groups. Blood pressure readings were taken in various settings, including on an examination table and in an exam chair with adjustable positioning. The results indicated that blood pressure readings taken on the examination table showed a systolic (top number) blood pressure measurement that was 7 mmHg higher and a diastolic (bottom number) reading that was 4.5 mmHg higher compared to measurements taken while the patient was seated in the recommended position. This difference is substantial enough to potentially misclassify millions of individuals as having hypertension when their blood pressure is actually within the normal range.
Dr. Jordana Cohen, a nephrologist at Penn Medicine in Philadelphia, emphasized the importance of correct blood pressure measurement, as incorrect treatment with medication can lead to low blood pressure, known as hypotension, which can result in dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, and falls. Dr. Cohen also stressed the need for healthcare systems to prioritize accurate blood pressure measurement and treatment, citing the potential for better outcomes and economic advantages.
In light of the challenges healthcare professionals face in managing their time effectively, especially when dealing with patients with multiple chronic conditions, Dr. Wexler suggested that future research should explore strategies to make the process more efficient without compromising the quality of care.
This research, titled “Comparison of outcomes for routine versus American Heart Association-recommended technique for blood pressure measurement (CORRECT BP),” was published in the journal eClinicalMedicine in September 2023.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Blood Pressure Measurement
What were the key findings of the blood pressure measurement study?
The study found that improper blood pressure measurement techniques, such as taking readings on an examination table instead of a chair with recommended positioning, could lead to significant discrepancies in blood pressure readings. Specifically, the average systolic blood pressure was 7 mmHg higher, and the diastolic reading was 4.5 mmHg higher when measurements were taken on the examination table.
Why is accurate blood pressure measurement important?
Accurate blood pressure measurement is crucial because misclassifying individuals as having high blood pressure (hypertension) when they don’t can lead to unnecessary treatments with potential side effects. Conversely, failing to diagnose true hypertension can lead to untreated health risks.
What are the recommended guidelines for proper blood pressure measurement?
The American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology recommend that patients should be seated in a chair with their feet flat on the floor, their back supported, and the arm with the blood pressure cuff supported at heart level. This positioning is vital to ensure accurate readings.
How can inaccurate blood pressure measurements affect patients?
Inaccurate blood pressure measurements can lead to misdiagnosis and the unnecessary prescription of medication. Overmedication can result in low blood pressure (hypotension), causing symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, and an increased risk of falls.
What challenges do healthcare professionals face in obtaining accurate blood pressure measurements?
Healthcare providers often struggle to allocate enough time for proper blood pressure measurement, especially when dealing with patients who have multiple chronic conditions. Research suggests that finding efficient strategies to streamline the process without compromising accuracy is a future consideration.
5 comments
Accurate BP reading so important, misclassifyin’ patients, not good, treatment side effects, must measure correctly!
wow, new study showin’ blood pressure testin’ not done right, that’s bad, millions could get wrong diagnosis, need to follow rules!
AHA, ACC got rules for BP measure, chair, feet flat, arm heart level, that’s the way! Docs need to follow ’em!
Docs too busy, need efficient ways to do BP measure right, keep patient safe, future research, hmm.
Oh no, wrong BP measure, could lead to overmedication, low BP probs, dizziness, gotta fix it!