How to Avoid Mistakes in Measuring High Blood Pressure

It is very important to avoid mistakes in measuring high blood pressure. An incorrect reading can cause a person who does have high blood pressure to go untreated, while a person with low blood pressure might be treated needlessly for a condition that they do not have. High blood pressure can be a very dangerous medical condition and it is essential to learn the proper method of measuring blood pressure.

Things You'll Need

• Blood pressure machine
• Chair
• Pillow if needed

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Instructions

• 1

  Check your blood pressure equipment to make sure that it is working properly

• 2

  Relax a few minutes before taking your blood pressure, as it can fluctuate due to the state of your body. Take the time to sit down, relax and breathe slowly.

• 3

  Put the blood pressure cuff on your upper arm with the bottom of the cuff placed at the bend in your elbow. The cuff should cover about 3/4 of your upper arm. It is very important that you use the right size cuff.

• 4

  Place your arm at heart level and use pillows to prop it up if necessary.

• 5

  Sit still with your feet flat on the floor and your back supported and straight. Breathe calmly and deeply while your blood pressure is being taken.

• 6

  Measure your blood pressure and keep a log of your reading by writing it down immediately when you take it. Refer to your log to determine your normal blood pressure.