Preparation Before Measurement
1. Environment and State: Choose a quiet room with a comfortable temperature for measurement. Rest quietly for 5-15 minutes before measurement, and avoid measuring within 30 minutes after eating, drinking alcohol, smoking, exercising, or showering.
2. Physical Preparation: Empty your bladder and bowels, maintain a relaxed mood, and avoid tension or anxiety.
Measurement Posture and Cuff Placement
3. Sitting Posture: Sit on a chair with a backrest, with both feet flat on the floor, back straight against the chair back, and arms naturally resting on the table with palms facing upwards.
4. Cuff Position: Wrap the cuff around the upper arm, with the lower edge of the cuff 1-2 centimeters above the elbow crease. The tightness should be such that one finger can be inserted comfortably. The center of the cuff should be at the same level as the heart.
Starting the Measurement
1. Operating Steps: Press the start button on the blood pressure monitor, keep your body still, and do not talk or move your arm. The cuff will automatically inflate and deflate during the measurement.
2. Multiple Measurements: It is recommended to take 2-3 measurements consecutively, with an interval of at least 2 minutes between each measurement, and take the average value to improve accuracy.
Precautions
1. Avoid Interference: Do not wear thick clothes or roll up your sleeves during measurement; there should be no gap between the cuff and the arm.
2. Equipment Selection: Upper arm blood pressure monitors are more accurate than wrist monitors and are suitable for home use.
3. Result Interpretation: A single measurement result cannot be used as a diagnostic basis; long-term recording and consultation with a doctor are necessary.
Common Errors and Corrections
1. Incorrect Posture: Leaning forward, a cuff that is too loose or too tight, or a suspended arm will all lead to measurement errors.
2. Time Selection: It is recommended to measure at a fixed time each day (e.g., after waking up, before going to bed) for easier comparison.
