How to Measure Blood Pressure Correctly: Instructions for Patients
Accurate health monitoring starts with reliable data. In this article we explain how to measure blood pressure correctly with a tonometer to avoid mistakes and get trustworthy readings for your diary in the Zdravel app. Following simple rules for measuring blood pressure at home helps your doctor adjust your therapy without unnecessary risks.
Preparation for the procedure
Before starting, it is important to rest. Sit in a chair with a backrest and either wear low-heeled shoes or take them off entirely. Free your arm from tight clothing. Do not smoke for at least 30 minutes before the measurement and avoid caffeine for an hour before the procedure. Talking during the session distorts the result by 10–20 units, so it is better to stay quiet.
Body and cuff position
Correct home blood pressure measurement requires attention to posture. Sit so that your back rests against the chair. The position of your arm matters: place your arm on the table so the cuff is at heart level. Do not cross your legs; keep your feet flat on the floor.
For home monitoring, a semi-automatic tonometer with an upper-arm cuff is most suitable. Put the cuff on a bare arm or over thin fabric so that its lower edge is 2–3 cm above the elbow crease, not on the wrist. The tube of the device should run along the inner side of the arm. If you are unsure which arm to measure on first, measure on both and choose the one with higher readings — it becomes the primary one.
When choosing a blood pressure monitor, look for a cuff sized to your upper-arm circumference, a large digital display that is easy to read, and an irregular-heartbeat indicator. Upper-arm models are generally more accurate than wrist models.
Common mistakes
Even experienced patients make measuring errors that affect data accuracy. Regular calibration of the device reduces tonometer error.
| Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Measuring through clothing | +10–30 mmHg of false result |
| Talking during measurement | +5–10 units of error |
| Crossed legs | +6–12 units too high |
| Cuff above/below heart level | Distorted systolic and diastolic readings |
How often to measure and how to keep the journal
Doctors recommend the following frequency: in the morning (30 minutes after waking and taking your tablets) and in the evening (1 hour before sleep). If you feel unwell, measure outside the schedule. For prevention, 2–3 times a week in the morning is enough.
Besides blood pressure, most modern monitors also show your pulse during measurement — a normal resting heart rate for an adult is usually 60–90 beats per minute, and a consistently higher reading is worth discussing with your doctor. It is important to write down the results to track the dynamics. The Zdravel app helps you keep a measurement journal automatically — you enter the readings and the system builds personalised statistics to show your therapist. The blood pressure and pulse diary is fully available offline, with data stored on the device. You can also set up medication reminders with a photo of the drug in the notification.
Accurate records help your doctor choose effective therapy. Download the free app for Android.