How to Measure Your Blood Pressure Correctly
What you can do
Instructions
Before measuring
- Avoid exercise, smoking and caffeine for about 30 minutes beforehand.
- Empty your bladder.
- Sit quietly for at least 5 minutes.
- Use a validated blood pressure monitor with the correct cuff size.
Position yourself correctly
- Sit with your back supported.
- Keep both feet flat on the floor.
- Do not cross your legs.
- Rest your arm on a table or other surface.
- Keep the cuff at approximately heart level.
- Do not talk during the measurement.
Take the reading
- Place the cuff directly on the skin of the upper arm.
- Start the monitor and remain still.
- Record the systolic and diastolic readings.
- Wait about 1 minute.
- Take a second reading.
- Record both readings together with the date and time.
If the readings are significantly different, take another measurement and record the result.
Keep a record
If you are monitoring your blood pressure regularly, record:
- Date
- Time
- Blood pressure reading
- Pulse, if displayed
- Any relevant symptoms
Bring your blood pressure record when attending your next clinical review.
