Proper positioning is vital in obtaining accurate blood pressure readings.
In general, blood pressure should be measured while you are seated comfortably. The arm being used should be relaxed, uncovered, and supported at the level of the heart. Only the part of the arm where the blood pressure cuff is fastened needs to be at heart level, not the entire arm. Sometimes your doctor will take your blood pressure while you are reclined or while you are standing up. This is appropriate in certain cases, but he pr she should also be measuring your blood pressure while you are positioned in the seated posture, as described above.
