How to Test the Electronic Blood Pressure Monitor

To manage your blood pressure, your doctor may suggest that you check your readings each day at home. Home monitoring can help you keep your blood pressure in check, ensure that medication is working, and alert you if health problems may be brewing. There are a variety of styles of blood pressure monitors, from simple manual cuffs to more sophisticated digital devices. No matter what type of blood pressure monitor you have, it is important to ensure the accuracy of your readings.

Instructions

How to Check the Accuracy of Your Blood Pressure Monitor

• 1

  Check with the manufacturer of your blood pressure monitor to ensure it was validated and that the readings are accurate and repeatable.

• 2

  Bring your blood pressure monitor to your doctor's office so you can compare the measurements with the readings you get from the doctor's device. Do this once a year at your annual physical to make sure your monitor is working properly. Ask your doctor to show you how to properly use your home-based monitor so you will receive accurate results.

• 3

  Choose to use a monitor that has been checked out by the Dabl Educational Trust and the British Hypertension Society. These organizations test all types of blood pressure monitors. They also post their findings on their websites.