Getting an Accurate Blood Pressure Measurement

Many factors influence your blood pressure during the day. Time of day, exercise activity, caffeine, smoking, or even an incorrect cuff size can lead to erroneous readings and unnecessary concerns.  When used properly, automatic blood pressure machines provide opportunities for ongoing blood pressure monitoring, and may be an individual’s first warning that blood pressure is elevated.

Follow these steps to get the most accurate reading:

• Always check blood pressure before drinking coffee, smoking or exercise and after using the bathroom.
• Sit quietly at the machine for a full 3-5 minutes-do not chat with friends or finish your lunch during this time.
• Insert your left arm into the cuff, free of any tight clothing (a tight rolled up sleeve can exert pressure on the arm leading to an inaccurate reading).  The cuff should be located 1-2 inches above the elbow, with your forearm resting flat, palm down, on the desktop.
• Take 2-3 readings (3 if the difference between the first 2 readings is more than 5 on the bottom number) with at least 1 minute of rest between readings.  Average the readings.
• If you take readings over several days, be consistent about the time of day (i.e., morning or afternoon).