How to Make Proper Measurements
How is a Proper Measurement Made?
Blood pressure varies depending upon the conditions prevailing at the time of the
measurement, consider the following so that the most accurate measurements
may be made.
1.
In preparation for blood pressure
measurement, the subject should urinate
and should remain relatively still for 5 to 10
minutes before a measurement.
2.
Shirts or other garments which fit tightly on
the upper arm should be removed before
attaching the arm cuff.
3.
Exercise, eating, drinking, and smoking
before a measurement can affect the results.
4.
Blood pressure varies constantly throughout
the day. Measurement should be made
regularly at the same time each day.
5.
Do not be too impressed by the results of
one measurement. Keep a record of blood
pressure measurements. Many readings tell
a story.
6.
When making repeated measurements, the
arm becomes heavy with blood, resulting in
wide variations in measurement values. For
this reason, repeated measurements should
be made after a rest period of approximately
5 to 10 minutes or after raising the arm until
the engorged condition is relieved.
7.
In general, the blood pressure is low in
summer (when it is hot) and high in winter
(when it is cold).
8.
Emotional stresses may cause an increase in blood pressure.
ENGLISH 9