High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is often referred to as the silent killer. You may not experience any symptoms of hypertension, yet suddenly have a heart attack or stroke due to it. This is why it is so important to monitor your blood pressure, especially if you are at risk for developing hypertension or have suffered from it in the past. The key to monitoring your blood pressure is knowing how to take it correctly.
Step 1
Check your equipment. Before beginning, check your blood pressure cuff to be sure it is completely deflated; this ensures an accurate reading. If it is not, open the air valve on the bulb completely by turning it toward you, then squeeze the remaining air from the cuff. Also check your stethoscope to ensure it is in working order. Place it in your ears and lightly tap the end with your finger; if you hear the tapping in your ears, your equipment is fine.
Step 2
Choose an arm. A blood pressure reading can vary by as much as 10 points between the right and left arm. Therefore, you need to choose one arm and consistently take your blood pressure in that arm. Your left arm is the better choice because it is located closer to your heart. If you have suffered from a stroke and are paralyzed on your left side though, you will need to use your right arm; left-side paralysis will interfere with the accuracy of your reading.
Step 3
Find your brachial pulse. This is located in the bend of your arm, usually close to your body. This is a vital step before taking your blood pressure because this is where you will be placing the round end of your stethoscope as you listen for both your systolic and diastolic pressure.
Step 4
Wrap the cuff. As you wrap your cuff around your upper arm, be sure the bottom of the cuff is approximately 1 inch above the bend of your arm. It should be snug enough for the cuff to overlap, yet loose enough for you to fit two fingers between the cuff and arm. If you are obese, you will need a cuff specially made for larger people; attempting to use an average size cuff will result in an inaccurate reading. At this time make sure the rubber insert of the cuff is aligned with your brachial pulse, to ensure a more accurate reading.
Step 5
Begin inflating. Holding the squeezable bulb in your hand, turn the air valve away from you until it won't turn any more; this means it is tightened. Then begin to pump the cuff until the number on the dial reads 180. It is imperative that you do not move, even though it will be a bit uncomfortable. Movement will interfere with the accuracy of your reading. Place the round end of your stethoscope over your brachial pulse at this time, in preparation for taking and recording your blood pressure.
Step 6
Begin deflating. Once at 180, turn the air valve slightly toward you to open and release the air in the cuff. Watching the dial on the cuff carefully, listen for the first beat you hear after opening the air valve; the number on the dial when the first beat is heard is your systolic reading. Continue listening and watching; the number on the dial when you hear the last beat is your diastolic reading. You can then open the air valve completely and release the remainder of the air from the cuff.
Tips and Warnings
- To increase your accuracy, your arm should be extended straight and at heart level; if needed, use books to support it.
Things You'll Need
- Blood pressure cuff
- Stethoscope
- Brachial pulse
