Comparison of auscultatory and oscillometric blood pressures.

OBJECTIVE

To study the differences in blood pressure readings between the auscultatory and oscillometric (Dinamap model 8100; Critikon, Tampa, Fla) methods.

DESIGN

Survey of 2 blood pressure instruments.

SETTING

Public schools.

PARTICIPANTS

Seven thousand two hundred eight schoolchildren aged 5 through 17 years.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Blood pressure levels.

RESULTS

For all children combined, Dinamap systolic pressure readings were 10 mm Hg higher (95% confidence interval, -4 to 24 mm Hg) than the auscultatory systolic pressure readings. Dinamap diastolic pressure readings were 5 mm Hg higher (95% confidence interval, -14 to 23 mm Hg) than the auscultatory Korotkoff phase V diastolic pressure readings.

CONCLUSION

These findings preclude the interchange of readings by the 2 methods. Caution must be exercised in the diagnosis of hypertension when an automated device is used.