Operation Manual

5. Measurement Procedure
Note: You should always be seated and calm before and during measurement.
5.1. Before measurement
 Avoid eating and smoking as well as all forms of exertion directly before measurement.
These factors influence the measurement result. Find time to relax by sitting in an armchair
in a quiet atmosphere for about ten minutes before taking a measurement.  Remove any
garment that fits closely to your upper arm.  Always measure on the same arm (normally
left).  Always compare measurements taken at the same time of day, since blood pressure
changes during the course of the day, as much as 20-40 mmHg.
5.2. Common sources of errors
Note: Comparable blood pressure measurements always require the same conditions!
 Conditions should always be quiet.  All efforts by the user to support the arm can
increase blood pressure. Make sure you are in a comfortable, relaxed position and do not
flex any of the muscles in the measurement arm during the measurement. Use a cushion
for support if necessary.  If the arm artery lies considerably lower or higher than the heart,
an erroneously high or low blood pressure will be measured! Each 25–30cm difference in
height between your heart and the cuff results in a measurement error of 10 mmHg.  Cuffs
that are too narrow or too short result in false measurement values. Selecting the correct
cuff is extremely important. Cuff size is dependent upon the circumference of the arm
(measured in the center). The permissible range is printed on the cuff.  Cuff works under
the pressure range 0-300 mmHg.  The wide range rigid cuff is 22–36cm.  A loose cuff or
a sideways protruding air pocket causes false measurement values.  With repeated
measurements, blood accumulates in the arm, which can lead to false results. Consecutive
blood pressure measurements should be repeated after a 1 minute pause or after your arm
has been held up in order to allow the accumulated blood to flow away.
5.3. Fitting the Cuff
a) The cuff is pre-formed for easier use.
Remove tight or bulky clothing from your upper
arm.
To get the optimal position for the cuff, see also
description under c).
b) To secure the cuff, wrap it around your arm
and press the hook and loop closure together.