A digital blood pressure monitor is an automated machine that measures both your systolic and diastolic blood pressure as well as your pulse rate. It works by inflating an air pump-inflated cuff around your arm or wrist, which then connects to a digital display showing readings onscreen. Additionally, it can alert you of any irregularities in your pulse or detect signs of hypertension. These machines can either come in with voice announcements digital blood pressure monitor or without voice announcements digital blood pressure monitor depending on your personal preference.
How Does it Work?
A blood pressure monitor measures your systolic and diastolic pressure using an inflatable air-bladder cuff, battery-operated air pump, and electronic device for sensing arterial wall vibrations. The electrical signal from these sensors is then displayed on a digital screen to show your systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings.
How to Take a Blood Pressure Measure
When taking your BP reading, choose which arm you would like to use and sit comfortably. Rest your upper arm at a heart level with both feet on the floor (back supported and legs uncrossed).
Place the cuff over your artery, making sure it is tight and doesn’t sag or bulge. Inflate and deflate it slowly so the monitor can take your measurement.
If the cuff fails to inflate and deflate properly on your second try, you can try again or reposition it. When finished with reading, wait a few minutes, then record it into your personal health record or write it down.
Digital Blood Pressure Monitors – How to use
An electronic wrist blood pressure monitor provides you with your systolic and diastolic pressures as well as your heart rate. This allows you to track your health over time and share this data with your doctor or pharmacist.
It’s essential to select a reliable blood pressure monitor that is user-friendly. Ideally, the device should be automatic, accurate, and meet industry standards.
- First, ensure the cuff is the appropriate size for your arm. If it’s too large, you may not get an accurate reading.
- Wrap the cuff around your upper arm about 1/2″ above your elbow and fasten it securely. Make sure two fingers can slide underneath without it being too tight so that there are overlaps of Velcro.
- Place the air hose on the inside of your upper arm, near the crook of your elbow, so that it aligns with your brachial artery. Make sure the artery position mark is also on the cuff.
- If your device is automatic, simply push a button to begin inflation. For manual models, pump air until your cuff is fully inflated by hand.
- Once inflated, gradually release the air. Your numbers should appear onscreen, and a small heart symbol will flash.
- Normal blood pressure should fall below 120 mmHg, and your diastolic blood pressure should not exceed 80 mmHg. If your readings are abnormally high, discuss treatment options with your doctor.
Conclusion
Caretek’s Digital Blood Pressure Monitor features a sleek, one-piece design that’s ideal for travel and storage. Plus, its connected app stores multiple readings and alerts you to any irregularities in your data. If you wish to know how to calibrate a digital blood pressure monitor? Give this a read.