15
5. How do I take a measurement?
Please note: You should always be seated before and during the
measurement.
5.1. Preparing to take a measurement
• Avoid eating, smoking as well as all forms of exertion directly before
your measurement. These factors influence the measurement result.
Relax by sitting in an armchair in a quiet atmosphere for about 5
minutes before your measurement.
• Always measure on the same wrist (normally left).
• Compare readings at the same time of day, since your blood pressure
changes during the course of the day.
5.2. Common errors
Note: Comparable blood pressure measurements always require
the same conditions. These are normally always quiet conditions.
• All efforts to support the arm can increase blood pressure. Make sure
you are in a comfortable, relaxed position and do not flex any of the
muscles in the measurement arm during the measurement. Use a
cushion for support if necessary.
• If the wrist artery lies considerably lower (higher) than the heart, an
erroneously higher (lower) blood pressure will be measured. (Each 15 cm/6"
difference in height results in a measurement error of 10 mmHg.)
• A loose cuff causes false measurement values.
• With repeated measurements, blood can accumulate in the respective
arm, which can lead to false results. Correctly executed blood pressure
measurements should therefore first be repeated after a 1 minute
pause or after the arm has been held up in order to allow the accumu-
lated blood to flow away.
To Next Page
Loading...
