Rest quietly for at least 5 minutes before you take a reading.

Sit with your back straight, such as on a dining chair, with both feet on the floor.

Don't drink caffeine, smoke, or exercise for at least 30 minutes before you take your blood pressure.

It's a good idea to have your device checked every year at the doctor's office. Ask your doctor or nurse to watch you use your device to make sure that you are doing it right and that it works right. Do this by comparing its readings with those you get at the doctor's office. When you first get a blood pressure device, check its accuracy. You may want to choose one that can print your results or send them directly to your doctor.

If you can, try to choose a monitor that saves the blood pressure readings. You may have to measure your arm and choose a monitor that comes in the right size. If the cuff is too small or too large, the results won't be right. The size of the blood pressure cuff and where you place it can greatly affect how accurate your device is. And devices that use finger monitors aren't recommended at all. Wrist monitors should be used only by people who can't use arm cuffs for physical reasons. Blood pressure monitors used on the wrist aren't as reliable as those that use arm cuffs. footnote 1 Contact your doctor if you want help choosing a monitor.Ī monitor that measures blood pressure in your arm is recommended for most people. Try to choose a monitor that has been validated to give accurate readings. How to take your blood pressure at home Choosing a blood pressure monitorĪn automatic blood pressure monitor is recommended.

Printable blank blood pressure chart