Clinical comparison of non-invasive blood pressure measurement at different sites: a systematic review protocol

Abstract

Review question/objective The objective of this review is to evaluate the accuracy of alternate sites for measuring non-invasive blood pressure when the upper arm is not feasible. More specifically, the objectives are to synthesize the available evidence on the diagnostic accuracy of measuring non-invasive blood pressure on alternate sites, using upper arm as a reference site. Inclusion criteria Types of participants This review will consider studies that evaluate non-invasive blood pressure measurements on healthy volunteers and adult patients who seek treatment in healthcare settings. Individuals who are less than 18 years of age, pregnant or delivering a child will be excluded. Individuals with known or diagnosed vascular diseases or medical conditions that render blood pressure measurements medically inappropriate will also be excluded. Types of intervention(s) This review will consider studies that compare non-invasive blood pressure measurements using oscillometric devices at different sites including but not limited to wrist, forearm, supraorbital artery, thigh, calf and ankle. Studies that report blood pressure measurements obtained from same single site are excluded. The upper arm, as a reference standard in non-invasive blood pressure measurement sites, will be used for comparison. Types of outcomes This review will consider studies that include the following outcome measures: 1. Mean differences in blood pressure measurements (systolic, diastolic and mean arterial pressure). 2. Reported pain score during blood pressure taking.