Measuring BP at doctor’s office
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Nov 03 2009
Q: Is there a reason why most doctors’ offices use a digital device to measure blood pressure rather than the manual type? When I was younger the nurse would hold your arm to heart level and take your pressure, now they just put the cuff on and press the button with the arm hanging which gives me higher numbers. Does it matter where the arm is placed?
A: I do not know what type of equipment is the most frequently used to monitor blood pressure in the office setting. However, it is important that blood pressure be taken properly to get an accurate reading. Many articles have suggested that blood pressure is frequently not measured correctly, even in a doctor’s office. The American Heart Association position is that the upper arm should be supported at the level of the heart. You should discuss your experience with your doctor. You will be doing the practice a great service.
Tags: blood pressure, bp, heart level, measuring blood pressure, Measuring Your BPGuidelines for measuring BP
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Apr 08 2009
Q: Please tell me how BP should be taken. My medical facility takes it over clothes, arm hanging, asking me questions, same size cuff for everyone. I have questioned them and they say it doesn’t make a difference. Everything I have read says the opposite.
A: Blood pressure needs to be taken properly for an accurate reading. To see a clinical guideline giving correct instructions and appropriate cuff sizes click here.
Tags: blood pressure, clinical guideline, cuff size, measuring blood pressure, Measuring Your BPWhat brand of blood pressure monitor is best?
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Dec 09 2008
Q: What brand or type of blood pressure monitor do you recommend for at home use?
A: For a site that reviews blood pressure monitors click here. You should choose a blood pressure monitor that has a good manufacturer and meets your needs. Personally, I have an ancient Omron unit that has been so reliable it hasn’t needed replacement.
Tags: Blood pressure monitor, measuring blood pressure, Measuring Your BP, OmronHow to take your blood pressure
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Oct 20 2008
Q: What is the correct way to take your blood pressure?
A: For a good discussion on this topic including use of several types of monitors click here.
Tags: how to measure blood pressure, measuring blood pressure, Measuring Your BPWhich arm should be used to measure blood pressure
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Oct 26 2007
Q: There is always a slight difference between measuring my right and left arm. Which arm should I measure?
A: It is well recognized that there is a variation in blood pressure results when taken on both arms. This does not appear to be related to being left or right handed and the difference usually isn’t significant. If readings are consistently higher in one arm than the other, this is the arm that should be used.
Tags: accurate blood pressure reading, how to measure blood pressure, measuring blood pressure, Measuring Your BP
