If the patient has an IV line in one arm, which arm should be used for BP measurement?

• A. The arm with the IV line.
• B. The arm without the IV line.
• C. BP cannot be measured.
• D. Either arm.

Answer: (B)

When an IV line is in place, the goal is to get an accurate blood pressure without interfering with the IV therapy. Measuring BP on the arm with the IV can compress the IV line during cuff inflation, potentially distorting the reading and risking infiltration or dislodgement of the catheter. It also makes the arterial pressure reading less reliable because the limb’s flow and pressure are being affected by the IV and the cuff at the same time. Use the arm without the IV line for the measurement to obtain a true reading and to protect the IV access. If both arms have IVs or no suitable arm is available, follow your facility’s protocol for an alternative site, such as a leg or an arterial line if present.