What is the result of using a blood pressure cuff that is too small or tight?

Using a blood pressure cuff that is too small or tight can lead to an inaccurate reading that may falsely indicate hypertension. When the cuff is not appropriately sized for the patient's arm, the pressure exerted may be greater than intended. This can create elevated results, often misclassified as high blood pressure, which may not reflect the actual health status of the individual.

Correct sizing and application of the cuff are crucial in obtaining accurate blood pressure readings. A cuff that is too small compresses the artery more than necessary, resulting in a higher than actual reading. Conversely, an appropriately sized cuff will provide a more reliable measurement, ensuring that the results reflect true blood pressure levels.