How to Take an Accurate Blood Pressure Reading

Several factors affect a blood pressure reading. Hence, it's recommended that you take some basic precautions to reduce the possibility of generating an inaccurate test result. Whether you are conducting a self-test at home using a blood pressure device, having your blood pressure checked at your health care provider or are visiting your doctor for a full physical examination, proper preparation is key to ensure accuracy and avoid misdiagnosis. Follow these steps to improve the accuracy of your blood pressure readings.

Things You'll Need

• Manual or electronic blood pressure monitor

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Instructions

Prepare Yourself for an Accurate Reading

• 1

  Relax at least 15 minutes before taking a reading. Don't take your blood pressure if you are nervous or upset.

• 2

  Avoid certain activities known to raise blood pressure levels for at least 30 minutes prior to your reading. These include eating, exercising, using tobacco products and taking medications such as nasal decongestant sprays.

• 3

  Seat yourself in a comfortable position with your arm slightly bent and supported so that your upper arm is at the same level as your heart.

• 4

  Use the same arm for every reading. Studies show that blood pressure readings may be 10 to 20 mmHg different between the right and left arm.

• 5

  Remain still and avoid talking during your blood pressure reading.

• 6

  Aim to conduct your blood pressure readings at the same time of day, since blood pressure levels naturally fluctuate. Typically, blood pressure is highest in the morning and lowest in the evening.

Properly Care for Your Monitoring Device

• 7

  Inspect your blood pressure device often to assess the condition of the rubber tubing, bulb, valves and cuff. Keeping your electronic or manual monitor in good working order improves accuracy.

• 8

  Store your blood pressure monitoring device in a cool and dry place.

• 9

  Bring your monitoring device to your health care provider so she can test the product and calibrate it correctly to ensure accurate readings.

• 10

  Ask your doctor to demonstrate how to correctly use your home monitoring device. Proactively taking your blood pressure at home in addition to regular visits to your doctor is the best way to generate an accurate blood pressure average throughout the course of a year.

• 11

  Ensure that the inflatable cuff fits and is positioned properly on your arm. The cuff should fit snugly around your upper arm, leaving a one-inch gap above the bend in your elbow.