Carrying Out A Measurement; Before The Measurement; Common Sources Of Error; Fitting The Cuff - Microlife BP AG1-30 Instruction Manual

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 measu-
rement 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 cor r ect
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 air­pocket causes false measurement values.

4.3. Fitting the cuff

a) Push the cuff over the left upper arm so that the tube
points in the direction of the lower arm.
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