Questions and answers
Question
What is the difference
between a blood pres-
sure measurement taken
at home and one at a
healthcare facility?
What is the best time of
day to measure blood
pressure?
What could be the
cause of abnormal
measurements?
What causes different
measurements?
44
Answer
Today, it is assumed that blood pressure
measurements at home are more ac-
curate because they better reflect one's
everyday situation. Measurements
taken at a healthcare facility may be
higher. This is referred to as white coat
hypertension and can be caused by
anxiety or nervousness.
In the morning or whenever you feel
relaxed and stress-free.
− Improper fitting of the cuff.
− Make sure that the cuff is fitted
neither too tight nor too loose.
− Make sure that the cuff is fitted
approx. 0.39"–0.79" (1−2 cm) above
the elbow.
− Improper posture.
− Make sure that you keep your body
in an upright position.
− Anxiety or nervousness.
− Take 2 to 3 deep breaths, wait a few
minutes and then continue taking
the measurement.
Blood pressure fluctuates during the
course of the day. Numerous factors can
have an effect on blood pressure such
as diet, stress, how the cuff is fitted etc.