To obtain an accurate blood pressure measurement in a school-age child, how should the cuff be positioned?

• A. On the forearm
• B. Two thirds of the distance between the antecubital fossa and the shoulder
• C. Around the elbow
• D. Very snug around the upper arm

Answer: (B)

Accurate blood pressure measurement relies on placing the cuff so it sits over the brachial artery in the upper arm. For a school-age child, position the cuff so its center is about two-thirds of the distance from the elbow crease (antecubital fossa) up toward the shoulder. This places the bladder over the mid-upper arm where the artery is located, giving a reading that truly reflects arterial pressure. The cuff should encircle the arm evenly and be snug but not overly tight, with the lower edge roughly 1–2 cm above the elbow crease. Avoid putting the cuff on the forearm or around the elbow, and ensure the arm is supported at heart level for best accuracy.