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4. Carrying out a measurement
4.1. Before the measurement
• Avoid eating, smoking as well as all forms of exertion directly before the measurement. All
these factors influence the measurement result. Try and find time to relax by sitting in an
armchair in a quite atmosphere for about ten minutes before the measurement.
• Remove any garment that fits closely to your upper arm.
• Measure always on the same wrist (normally left).
• Attempt to carry out the measurements regularly at the same time of day, since the blood-
pressure changes during the course of the day.
4.2. Common sources of error
Note:
Comparable blood-pressure measurements always require the same conditions!
These are normally always quiet conditions.
• All efforts by the patient to support the arm can increase the blood-pressure. Make sure
you are in a comfortable, relaxed position and do not activate 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 (higher) than the heart, an erroneously higher (lower)
blood-pressure will be measured! (Each 15 cm difference in height 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 of extraordinary importance. The cuff size is dependent upon the
circumference of the arm (measured in the centre). The permissible range is printed on the
cuff. If this is not suitable for your use, please contact your dealer.
Note:
Only use clinically approved
Original-Cuffs!
• A loose cuff or a sideways protruding air-pocket causes false measurement values.
