What adjustment should be made when measuring blood pressure in a patient with an injured arm?

When measuring blood pressure in a patient with an injured arm, it is essential to choose a method that avoids any potential harm and ensures an accurate reading. Utilizing the other arm or measuring at the thigh provides a safe and reliable alternative.

The other arm is typically preferred as it tends to give comparable readings to the injured arm, assuming no prior harm or issues with that arm. If an arm is not suitable due to injury, using the thigh can also provide a valid assessment of blood pressure, as it allows for measurement in a location where the circulation is not compromised by an injury.

These options ensure that healthcare providers can accurately assess the patient’s blood pressure while also considering their safety and comfort. Measurements taken from the injured arm, the ankle without proper context, or using a wrist cuff—which can be less accurate—are not advisable under these circumstances.