Home Blood Pressure Monitor: Check the Cuff Before You Buy
Before you trust that reading, check the cuff. A poor fit can affect your home blood pressure result.
Three checks before buying
Choose a validated automatic upper-arm monitor. Check that the cuff fits your arm measurement. Bring the monitor to an appointment so a healthcare professional can check your technique and device.
Set up for a more reliable reading
Avoid smoking, caffeine and exercise for 30 minutes beforehand, and empty your bladder. Rest quietly for at least five minutes.
Place the cuff on your bare upper arm. Sit with your arm supported at heart level and do not talk during measurement. Take two readings one minute apart and record them. Ask your clinician when and how often to check.
Use readings as part of your care
Do not stop prescribed blood pressure medicine because of a home reading. Ask Island Pharmacy TCI for help understanding monitor features and cuff sizing.
General health information; ask a healthcare professional for advice about your situation.
Sources
Cover image is an illustration, not a photograph of a specific product.
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