Avoid Common Mistakes While Measuring Your Blood Pressure

Many people complain that their blood pressure monitors are not working. In most cases, this is not true unless your device took a bath or got chewed by your dog. It is simple… You need to know the basic rules on (1) how to use it, and (2) how to read it…

1. Overarching Principles:

a) Avoid eating, exercising, and bathing for 15 minutes prior to testing

b) Sit in a calm environment for at least 5 minutes.

c) Avoid speaking or moving body parts while testing.

d) While testing, avoid strong electromagnetic interference such as microwave ovens and cell phones.

e) While testing, avoid strong electromagnetic interference such as microwave ovens and cell phones.

Sounds simple, right? But we don’t follow it – think about when was the last time you measured…

2.1. ARM Monitor Specific:

a) Cuff placement - Connect the tube to the unit. Remove any constrictive clothing or jewelry that may interfere with cuff placement. Wrap the cuff snugly around your left arm.

b) Position the cuff’s bottom edge one inch ABOVE the elbow joint.

c) Position the ( Ф ) cuff symbol over the main artery (on the inside of your arm) as shown. Cuff should fit snugly, yet comfortably. You should be able to insert two fingers between your arm and cuff.

2. 2. Arm placement – MOST COMMON MISTAKE

Rest your elbow on a solid surface with your palm facing upward and raise your hand so the cuff is at the same level as your heart. A cuff that is below or above heart level will create an inaccurate reading.
A cuff that is below or above heart level will create an inaccurate reading.

3. Wrist monitor specific:

a) Do not apply over clothing. If wearing a long sleeved shirt, be sure to roll sleeve back to forearm. Apply monitor to wrist as illustrated. Tighten cuff firmly as not to wiggle.

b) Place middle of the cuff at the level of the right atrium of the heart.

Abnormal test results may be caused by:

Improper cuff placement. Make sure cuff is snug-not too tight or too loose.
Improper body position. Make sure to keep your body in an upright position.
Feeling anxious or nervous. Take 2-3 deep breaths, wait a few minutes and resume testing.

4. Basic Q & A

Q: What causes different readings?

A: Blood pressure varies throughout the course of a day. Many factors including diet, stress, cuff placement, etc. may affect an individual's blood pressure.

Q: Should I apply the cuff to the left or right wrist? What is the difference?

A: Either wrist can be used when testing, however, when comparing results, the same wrist should be used. Testing on your left wrist may provide more accurate results as it is located closer to your heart.

Q: What is the best time of day for testing?

A: Morning time or any time you feel relaxed and stress free.

Q: What is the difference between measuring blood pressure at home or at a professional healthcare clinic?

A: Blood pressure readings taken at home are now seen to give a more accurate account as they better reflect your daily life. Readings can be elevated when taken in a