Table.

BP Reading Error Related to Positioning Technique^a

Positioning Technical Error	Associated BP Reading Error
Full bladder	Elevated 10–15 mmg
Unsupported back	Elevated 5–10 mmHg
Unsupported feet	Elevated 5–10 mmHg
Crossed legs	Elevated 2–8 mmHg
Cuff over clothing	Elevated 10–40 mmHg
Unsupported arm	Elevated 10 mmHg
Patient talking	10–15 mmHg

^a Modified from Pickering TG, et al.³⁷ Circulation 2005 and O’Brien E, J Hypertens (2003).³⁴ BP = blood pressure.