Which statement about cuff deflation rate is incorrect?

• A. Deflate at 2-3 mmHg per second
• B. Deflate too slowly can cause reading errors
• C. Deflate too quickly can cause reading errors
• D. Deflate rate does not affect accuracy if cuff width is correct

Answer: (D)

Deflation rate matters because it controls how the cuff pressure changes relative to the artery as you listen for the Korotkoff sounds. The goal is to move from above systolic pressure to below diastolic pressure at a steady pace so you can accurately detect when the first sound appears (systolic) and when it disappears (diastolic). The recommended rate is about 2–3 mmHg per second to give you a clear window for identifying those points.

If you deflate too slowly, the cuff pressure stays above systolic for longer, which can cause venous congestion and makes it harder to pinpoint the exact moment the first sound begins or ends. This often leads to less reliable diastolic readings and increased measurement variability. If you deflate too quickly, you can miss the subtle onset of the first Korotkoff sound or the final disappearance of sounds, which can cause underestimation of systolic pressure or diastolic pressure.

Even with an appropriately sized cuff, the deflation rate still affects accuracy. The statement that the rate doesn’t matter if the cuff width is correct isn’t correct, because rate and cuff size influence the ability to interpret the Korotkoff sounds accurately.