How to Check Accuracy of Wrist Blood Pressure Monitors

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Measuring your blood pressure is very important to ensure it is kept in check and monitor the progress of your treatment. Getting your own blood pressure monitor from a recognized blood pressure monitor supplier will help make this easier.

Wrist blood pressure monitors are more portable because they are less bulky compared to arm monitors. These monitors are easy to travel with and easy to use for those people with mobility limitations and larger upper arms. If you’re thinking about getting a wrist blood pressure monitor, here are a few things you should know;

Do Wrist Blood Pressure Monitors Work Accurately

To get the right readings on your blood pressure, ensure you get the best wrist blood pressure monitor in the market, and confirm whether it is accurate. When it comes to wrist blood pressure monitors, the accuracy highly depends on how you use it.

You need to learn the right techniques of taking accurate blood pressure at home and do exactly as directed. However, you should keep in mind that the arteries on your wrist are narrower than those on your arm. This could potentially make the results slightly higher as compared to results from an arm monitor.

How To Use a Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor to Ensure Accuracy

Using a wrist blood pressure monitor requires you to familiarize yourself with how to measure your blood pressure and ways to do it right. Here are a few tips to help you get the right results each time;

Place Your Arm in the Right Position

Your arm and wrist need to be placed directly at your heart’s level. Find something to elevate and support your arm and make sure you’re using a flat surface. The best way to do this is by seating the right way. Your feet should be flat on the floor, your back straight, and upright. Make sure to be as comfortable as possible to avoid constant movements.

Avoid Any Movements

It is important to avoid too much movement before and during your blood pressure readings. If you plan to workout, be sure to do it an hour before you get to measure your BP. This is because after a workout your heart rate will be elevated and if you measure then, you’ll get incorrect measurements. Sit still in a quiet place and hold your position until after you’re done.

Be Consistent With Your Time and Position

Try your best to find a seating position where you can consistently take your blood pressure measurements. This will help you get better at the placement of your arm and make it easier when the time comes. You should also try to keep the same time if possible to help you manage your schedule better and ensure you don’t forget.

Take Sequential Readings

The best way to ensure that your readings are accurate is to take sequential readings. After you measure the first time, wait at least 30 seconds then do it again. However, be sure to stay still and avoid sudden movements during this break. After your second reading, compare the numbers to confirm the accuracy of your wrist monitor.

Be in an Environment With a Moderate Climate

Have a feel of your environment to determine the climate. This is especially important because high temperatures can interfere with your results. Strive to be in a moderate environment where it is not too hot or too cold.

Place the Wrist Monitor Correctly

Place the monitor directly on your skin and make sure there is no fabric interfering. Also, your wrist monitor should be placed approximately a half-inch from your wrist bone. Check the monitor screen and face it on the same side as your palm.

Avoid Taking Alcohol or Coffee Before Testing

Both alcohol and coffee temporarily increase the levels of your blood pressure. This is why you should try your best to avoid them before your time to test comes. Give yourself a period of one to two hours after having coffee to take your blood pressure measurements.

Conclusion

Using a wrist blood pressure monitor to monitor your BP is a step in the right direction. All you need to do is find the right wrist monitor for you and make sure you do everything needed to ensure accuracy.

If you run into any problems or need to compare results, go to your doctor, and get some help. Have your doctor test you using the hospital BP monitor then use your wrist monitor to do the same. This will help you compare results to determine whether your device is accurate.

A Guide To Knowing the Accuracy Of Wrist Blood Pressure Monitors

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