A Step-by-Step Guide to Accurately Measuring Your Blood Pressure with a Machine

1. A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO ACCURATELY MEASURING YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE WITH A MACHINE Measuring your blood pressure is an essential aspect of healthcare and fitness. Through proper and timely blood pressure readings, a number of health issues like hypertension and cardiac issues can be detected and treated. However, this all depends on being able to have accurate BP measurements. When using a blood pressure monitor at home, it is imperative to be able to accurately measure your blood pressure. To be able to accurately use your BP Monitor for readings, follow these steps: Locate the pulse in your arm Place your index and middle finger lightly at the center of the bend of your elbow. If you are unable to find a pulse, you can use a stethoscope in the same area to locate the point where you can hear your pulse the clearest. Place the arm cuff of your digital blood pressure monitorin the same general area. Fasten the cuff securely Slide the cuff over your arm and bring it to the area where you located the pulse. Ensure that the lower edge of the cuff is an inch above your elbow bend. Using the fastener attached, steady the cuff onto your arm making sure that it is snug and not too tight. Inflate and Deflate Based on the type of blood pressure monitoryou are using, the cuff can be automatically or manually inflated and deflated. If using a digital blood pressure monitor, hold the bulb in your right hand and press the power button. After the display fully turns on squeeze the bulb to inflate the cuff. If you have an automatic BP monitor, then pressing the power button will inflate the cuff on its own.

2. Take the Readings Keep the cuff inflated till the gauge is 30 points above the systolic pressure. Patiently sit still while observing the monitor till the pressure readings are displayed on the screen. Hearing a long beep will indicate the completion of the blood pressure reading. Record the displayed measurement and allow the cuff to deflate completely. Following the above-mentioned steps will ensure that you are able to take accurate and error- free measurements when using your blood pressure monitor for home use. For consistent accurate BP measurements at home, make sure to: ●Find a quiet place and ensure that you are comfortable, with an empty bladder before your Blood Pressure Monitor. ●Remove any tight-sleeved clothing by rolling up your sleeves or changing into clothing that is loose and more comfortable. ●Relax in a comfortable position for at least 5 to 10 minutes before measuring your blood pressure, while avoiding any strenuous activity as it can cause a falsely high blood pressure reading.