5. Carrying out a measurement
5.1. 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 5 minutes before the measurement.
•
Remove any garment that fits closely to your upper arm.
•
Measure always on the same arm (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.
5.2. 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-pres-
sure will be measured! (Each 15 cm difference in height results in a measurement error of 10mmHg!)
•
Cuffs that are too narrow or to 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 con-
tact your dealer.
Note:
Only use clinically approved Original-Cuffs!
•
A loose cuff or a sideways protruding air-pocket causes false measurement values.
5.3. Fitting the cuff
a) Push the cuff over the left upper arm so that the tube
points in the direction of the lower arm.
b) Make certain that the lower edge of the cuff lies approx. 2 to
3 cm above the elbow and that the rubber tube leaves
the cuff on the inner side of the arm.
Important!
The mark (ca. 3 cm long bar) must lie over
the artery which runs down the inner side of the arm.
c) Tighten the free end of the cuff and close the cuff with
the closer.
d) There must be no free space between the arm and the
cuff as this would influence the result. Clothing must
not restrict the arm. Any piece of clothing which does
(e.g. a pullover) must be taken off.
e) Secure the cuff with the Velcro closer in such a way
that it lies comfortably and is not too tight. Lay the
arm on the table (palm upwards) so that the cuff is at
the same height as the heart. Make sure that the tube
is not kinked.
6
2–3 cm
tube
