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Automatic blood pressure monitors
There are many different kinds of home blood pressure monitor, but it is easiest to use a monitor that is fully automatic (digital). Choose one that measures your blood pressure at your upper arm, rather than at your wrist or finger. Upper-arm blood pressure monitors usually give the most accurate and consistent results.
Make sure your monitor is accurate
Make sure that the home blood pressure monitor you choose has been listed as 'clinically validated' for accuracy by the British Hypertension Society. This means that the digital monitor has gone through a series of tests to make sure it gives results that you and your doctor can trust.
Make sure you have the right cuff size
An upper-arm blood pressure monitor will come with a cuff that you need to wrap around your arm. If you use a cuff that is the wrong size for you, your blood pressure reading will not be correct. Measure around your upper arm at the midpoint between your shoulder and elbow, and choose your cuff size from the chart below.
| Upper Arm Blood Pressure Monitor cuff sizes | ||
| Measurement (cm) | Measurement (inches) | Cuff size |
|
18-22 cm |
7.1-8.7” |
Small |
|
22-32 cm |
8.8-12.8” |
Medium |
|
32-45 cm |
12.8-18” |
Large |
Most home blood pressure monitors will come with a medium-sized cuff. You may have to order a different-sized cuff separately.
Choose a digital monitor to suit your budget
Blood pressure monitors can vary in price. This usually depends on the number of extra features that the digital monitor has, like a built-in memory for example.
All you need to measure your blood pressure correctly is a clinically validated monitor, and a pen and paper to record your readings. Extra features can be helpful but they are not necessary. Choose a home blood pressure monitor that you can afford.
Keep your home blood pressure monitor calibrated
Because your blood pressure monitor works automatically, it will need to be re-calibrated at least once every two years to be sure it is giving you accurate results. To have your automatic home monitor re-calibrated, you will need to send it back to the manufacturer. There will probably be a fee for this service.
