10
Always be sure to note the date and time when recording blood pressure
and pulse measurements. For best results, and with time permitting, 3
successive measurements may be taken daily. Make sure to allow at least
5 minute intervals between measurements. Discard any reading that
appears suspect and record the average of the remaining readings.
3.8. How is Blood Pressure Measured?
Healthcare professionals traditionally use a device known as a
sphygmomanometer along with a stethoscope - essentially a professional
version of the very same instrument you have purchased. The
sphygmomanometer is a system consisting of an inflatable bladder contained
within a cuff, inflation bulb with air control valve, and pressure measuring
manometer (gauge). The gauge may be mechanical or mercurial. The cuff is
wrapped around the limb and inflated to constrict blood flow to the artery. As
pressure is released from the cuff through the deflation valve, blood flow
returns to the artery producing pulse beats known as Korotkoff sounds, which
are detected with the stethoscope. Systolic pressure is recorded at the onset
of these sounds. Diastolic pressure is generally recorded when the sounds
disappear (when blood flow to the artery returns to normal).
3.9. How should I record my blood pressure?
Record your blood pressure by setting up a simple chart in a spiral-bound
notebook as shown below, or use the included record book.
Date Time Reading Pulse
4/24 7:50AM 128/83 72
4/25 8:00AM 135/77 77
4/26 7:45AM 130/75 71
4/27 2:00PM 153/89 80
If you like you can add a column for comments about your condition at the time of
measurement, or a listing of any factors that may have influenced your readings
(such as "had a cold", or "just returned from vacation").
For best results, and with time permitting, 3 successive measurements
