Oscillometric blood pressure: a review for clinicians

Oscillometric devices for the non–invasive estimation of blood pressure (BP) have become the “clinical standard” because of training requirements for determination of BP by auscultation, cost, and the phasing–out/banning of mercury in many states and countries. Analysis of recent publications reveals a lack of understanding of the “meaning” of oscillometric blood pressure (OBP) measurements by authors, journal editors, and clinicians. We were invited to submit a review of OBP methodology written for clinicians. We hope that the material contained herein will clarify how clinicians should interpret OBP values for their patients.