What cuff size should be at least what percent greater than limb diameter?

• A. 75 Percent
• B. 50 Percent
• C. 25 Percent
• D. 100 Percent

Answer: (B)

Proper cuff sizing is essential for accurate blood pressure measurement. The inflatable bladder needs to be wide enough to encircle and evenly compress the limb so the artery is occluded reliably without edge effects. A cuff width at least 50% greater than the limb diameter provides enough coverage and contact area to produce a representative reading. In other words, about one and a half times the limb diameter is a practical guideline. If the cuff is too small, readings tend to be artificially high; if it’s larger than necessary, measurements can be less accurate.