It may be helpful to understand your blood pressure over a period of time and therefore we may ask you to submit readings via the our Blood Pressure Record Sheet.
How to check your blood pressure using a blood pressure machine
- In order for it to be an accurate reading it’s important that you’re resting and that you’re not feeling anxious or stressed.
- Sit upright in a chair, your back against the back of the chair, and place your feet flat on the floor.
- Rest your arm on a table if you have one and just make sure your hand and arm are relaxed on the table. It’s important that you don’t clench your fist when you’re taking your blood pressure.
- Place the cuff over your upper arm and tighten the cuff over your arm, making sure you can fit two fingers underneath the cuff. You want the cuff to be over the upper part of your arm with the tubing leading down the centre or slightly to the right of your arm.
- When you check your blood pressure, don’t talk and just relax. Press the on button, and then press the start button.
- You’ll feel the cuff inflate quite rapidly. It may temporarily be a bit tender or uncomfortable for, as the cuff inflates and deflates automatically, but this will only be for a short period of time. If it is too tender/uncomfortable you can just press the ‘Stop’ button and the cuff will instantly deflate.
- Once you get your reading, make a note of the reading. Some blood pressure machines may take several readings. Record the lowest reading.
- If you’ve been asked by your GP or nurse to check your blood pressure, take it twice a day – morning and evening. Please then return this to your GP surgery.
The quickest way to submit your results is via email or you can always post your results to Highbridge Medical Centre, Pepperall Road, Highbridge, TA9 3YA