Which artery is most frequently used for measuring blood pressure?

The brachial artery is the most frequently used site for measuring blood pressure, particularly in clinical settings. This is primarily due to its accessibility and the accuracy it provides when compared to other sites. The brachial artery is located in the inner part of the elbow, making it easy for healthcare professionals to palpate and place the blood pressure cuff correctly.

When a blood pressure cuff is inflated around the arm, the brachial artery offers a good representation of the central arterial pressure, which is important for assessing cardiovascular health. This arterial site also minimizes the potential for interference from surrounding structures, as might be encountered in other arteries such as the femoral or carotid, where positioning can be more challenging.

In practice, the brachial artery is often the standard reference point cited in guidelines for blood pressure measurement, which reinforces its use in both adult and pediatric patients. This practice is supported by clinical research, ensuring that this method is both reliable and consistent across different healthcare settings.