Arm Position and Blood Pressure Measurement Accuracy in Pregnancy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

What this Trial Is About

Accurate blood pressure measurement is crucial during pregnancy, especially for diagnosing and managing hypertensive disorders. This study evaluates how different arm positions affect blood pressure readings in pregnant women attending a high-risk pregnancy clinic. It is a randomized crossover trial that includes participants from all three trimesters and stratifies by chronic hypertension status. The goal is to understand the impact of arm position on blood pressure accuracy to improve clinical practice during prenatal care. Participants undergo blood pressure measurements with the arm in three common positions: supported at heart level, supported on the lap, and unsupported at the side. Each participant has multiple measurements taken during a single clinic visit in a randomized order. Measurements are done using an automated device by trained nursing staff after a resting period while the participant is seated comfortably. The study design allows each participant to serve as her own control. During the study visit, blood pressure is carefully recorded in each arm position, and differences in systolic and diastolic readings are analyzed. Secondary analyses examine patterns across gestational ages, chronic hypertension status, and pregnancy type. The study involves minimal risk and does not change standard prenatal care. It aims to provide evidence for best practices in blood pressure measurement during pregnancy and will conclude by the end of 2026.

Arm Position and Blood Pressure Measurement Accuracy During Pregnancy