E-11
Using the Monitor
4. Applying the Cuff
1. Wrap the cuff around your wrist about 1 cm above your hand as shown in
the figure at the right.
2. Fasten the cuff tightly using the Velcro strip.
Note: For proper measurements, fasten the cuff tightly and measure on a bare wrist.
5. How to Take Proper Measurements
For the most accurate blood pressure measurement:
q
Remain still and keep quiet during measurement.
q
Sit down in a comfortable position. Place your elbow on a table. Raise your hand so that the cuff is at
the same level as your heart.
q
Relax for several minutes before measurement. If you are excited or depressed by emotional stress,
the measurement will reflect this stress as a higher (or lower) than normal blood pressure reading and
the pulse reading will usually be faster than normal.
q
Try to measure your blood pressure at about the same time every day.
q
An individual’s blood pressure varies constantly, depending on what they are doing, what they have
eaten and what they drink can have a very strong and rapid effect on your blood pressure.
q
Do not measure immediately after physical exercise or a bath. Rest for twenty or thirty minutes before
taking the measurement.
q
Do not cross your legs. Keep your feet on the floor and straighten your back.
About 1 cm
