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Selecting the correct blood pressure cuff
In short: The cuff is decided by the upper arm circumference, Not age or weight. Two technical specifications are also required: the number of hoses and the connection type on the device. Measure the circumference before ordering.
Sizes according to arm circumference#
The manufacturers' names may differ, but the circumference in centimeters is the same. It is printed on every cuff and is the reliable indicator.
| Scope | Patient group | In the product range as |
|---|---|---|
| 6 to 11 cm | newborns | Neonatal, sizes 1 to 5 |
| 10 to 19 cm | Infants and toddlers | Infant, small children |
| 14 to 26 cm | Children and slim arms | Children, Pediatrics |
| 24 to 36 cm | Adult | Standard, Adults |
| 32 to 43 cm | strong upper arms | Strong arms, XL |
| 38 to 55 cm | very strong upper arms | XL, XXL |
| 42 to 45 cm | Thigh measurement | thigh cuff |
If your measured circumference falls between two sizes, choose the larger one. The size ranges intentionally overlap with most manufacturers.
One hose or two#
Older systems use two hoses: one for inflation, the other for measurement. Newer monitors predominantly use a single-hose design, where both functions run through a single line. The number of hoses must match the device and cannot be changed with an adapter.
- Single-tube cuffs for Philips, Dräger and Mindray are supplied with bladder and metal adapter.
- For long-term recorders like the Spacelabs 90217 and OnTrak 90227, the cuff and rubber bag belong together and are ordered in the same size.
Connection according to manufacturer#
| Manufacturer | Typical systems | Notice |
|---|---|---|
| Spacelabs | 90217, OnTrak 90227, RR recorder | Washable reusable and disposable versions, 12 to 55 cm |
| Philips | X2, X3, IntelliVue series | Single tube with metal adapter, neonatal sizes 1 to 5 |
| boso | TM-2430, TM-2450, ABI | Order cuff and protective cover in the same size |
| Dräger, Mindray | Monitors with single-hose connection | They share many designs with Philips. |
| Welch Allyn | Connex Spot | FlexiPort system, hose in 1.5 m and 3 m lengths |
| IEM. | Mobil-O-Graph | Sizes L (32 to 38 cm) and XL (38 to 55 cm) |
Reusable or disposable#
Reusable cuffs are washable and designed for repeated use. Disposable cuffs are used where reprocessing between patients is not possible, such as in neonatology. Both are available in the same sizes; the ordering process differs only in the design.
Frequently Asked Questions#
- How do I determine the correct cuff size?
- Measure your upper arm circumference midway between your shoulder and elbow. The measurement must fall within the range printed on the cuff. Age and weight are not reliable indicators. If your measurement falls between two sizes, choose the larger one.
- Will a Philips cuff fit a Dräger monitor?
- Often yes, because many single-hose systems use the same connection. The number of hoses and the adapter type are crucial, not the device name. In our product range, cuffs that fit Philips, Dräger, and Mindray are marked accordingly.
- What is the difference between single-hose and double-hose cuffs?
- In a two-hose design, one hose inflates the air while the other measures the pressure. In a single-hose design, both functions run through a single hose. Older devices often require two hoses, while newer ones mostly use one. An adapter will not bridge this difference.
- Do I need a special cuff for the long-term recorder?
- Yes. Long-term recorders like the boso TM-2450, Spacelabs 90217, and IEM Mobil-O-Graph use their own cuffs, often along with a rubber pouch or protective cover of the same size. These parts are listed separately for each device.
- Are there cuffs for measuring on the thigh?
- Yes, for circumferences of approximately 42 to 45 cm. They are used when measuring on the arm is not possible. Again, pay attention to the number of tubes and the type of connection on the device.
- Do you carry cuffs for older devices?
- Yes. Our product range includes everything from current systems to older recorders and monitors. Just tell us the device type, arm circumference, and number of hoses, and we'll check if it's compatible.
Assignment by nib#
Please tell us the device type and your measured arm circumference, or send us a photo of the connection. We will compare this information with our product range and tell you the suitable model and price.
Telephone 02363 3663-0 · kontakt@nispel.de · Request for quotation
Last updated: August 25, 2026. The information is taken from the manufacturer's documentation for the items in our product range. In case of doubt, the instruction manual for your device is binding.