Kidney Korner: How to Take Your Blood Pressure

In our last segment of the Kidney Korner, we began the introduction to blood pressure. In this segment, we will be discussing how to take blood pressure readings. 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Taking Your Blood Pressure:
For Upper Arm Blood Pressure Cuffs:

1. Remove clothing and jewelry from the arm you will be using for a reading. These may interfere with the reading’s accuracy. 
   1. Make sure any rolled or adjusted sleeves are not constricting blood flow.
2. Sit down at a table or desk.
   1. Uncross legs and ankles
   2. Sit with good posture and feet flat on the ground
3. Open the blood pressure cuff and loosen fully
   1. Plug the cuff into the machine, if not already done
4. With your arm facing upwards, slide the cuff up to the upper arm
   1. You want the cuff placed one to two fingers width above the bend of the elbow, with about one finger width of space between the cuff and your arm.
   2. The tube should be in line or centered with the vein down your arm.
5. Locate the end of the cuff, pull to begin to tighten the cuff
6. Wrap the velcro around your arm, and secure, ensuring that the arrow indicator is within the guidelines.
7. The machine and your arm should be resting around heart level for the most optimal reading.
   1. Rest arm in a relatively relaxed position with your palm facing up
8. Depending on your machine, press start or go, based on the instructions.
9. Don’t talk or move during the reading!
10. Record your reading
11. Based on cuff instructions, let the machine turn itself off, or press stop.
12. Remove the velcro entirely after the cuff deflates. Do not slide the cuff off your arm.

For Wrist Blood Pressure Cuffs:

1. Follow the same first two steps as listed above
2. With your wrist facing upwards, slide the cuff onto your wrist.
   1. You want the cuff placed one to two fingers width above the end of your wrist, with about one finger width of space between the cuff and your wrist.
3. Secure the cuff.
4. The machine and your arm should be resting around heart level for the most optimal reading.
   1. Rest arm in a relatively relaxed position with your palm facing up
   2. Do not cross your arm over your chest or hold your arm in mid air. These positions affect proper blood flow and may cause an inaccurate reading.
5. Depending on your machine, press start or go, based on the instructions.
6. Don’t talk or move during the reading!
7. Record your reading
8. Based on cuff instructions, let the machine turn itself off, or press stop.
9. Remove the velcro entirely after the cuff deflates. Do not slide the cuff off your wrist.

My blood pressure is higher than normal for me. What should I do?
If you are experiencing an episode of high blood pressure, we advise that you take a second reading. The first may be an outlier due to acute stress or moving your body before taking the reading. Before taking a second reading, follow these suggestions:

1. Do not take off the cuff unless you feel it was placed incorrectly (ex: too tight, too loose, improper position on arm, etc.)
2. Remain in your seat.
3. Take 5-10 minutes to breathe deeply. 
4. Close your eyes and go to a happy place in your mind.

When you are ready, take your reading again. The second reading is usually the most accurate. If the second reading is still high or concerning, contact your medical provider for guidance. 

Tips for Taking Accurate Readings

• Consistency is key! Take readings on the same arm and in the same conditions or circumstances each time.
• Take your blood pressure 1-2 hours after taking your medications and when you are most relaxed.
• Do not slide your cuff off as this can damage the cuff and its ability to inflate properly. Always fully remove the velcro when you are finished taking your readings. 
• Take a second reading if you are unsure if your first is accurate following the above steps.
• Avoid eating, caffeine, and smoking before taking a reading.

Helpful Videos:
https://youtu.be/gUHALsLeeoM
https://youtu.be/GSNZVaW1Wg4

If you are unsure that you are taking your blood pressure properly, call our office for guidance from your care team. 

This website is for informational and educational purposes ONLY. While we strive for accurate, general medical information, this does not replace professional medical advice. Do not rely solely on this information. Please consult with your provider for more information regarding your specific needs. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 9-1-1.
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