Which arm is most preferred for taking blood pressure measurements?

The left arm is often preferred for taking blood pressure measurements due to its proximity to the heart. This preference can help provide a more accurate measure of the blood pressure in relation to the blood flow through the aorta. For most individuals, the left arm generally offers a more consistent and reliable reading.

In addition, if the patient is right-handed, they may have developed more muscle and tissue in the left arm due to using that arm more, which could also contribute to more consistent readings.

While it is true that blood pressure can be measured on either arm and is also acceptable to use whichever feels more comfortable for the patient, the left arm is typically noted for these reasons to be the standard choice. It's also critical for practitioners to compare readings from both arms when possible, as significant differences may indicate underlying health issues.