Measuring My Blood Pressure: Nurse's Guide

How do you know if you have high blood pressure? Measuring it is the only way. 

Let’s discuss how you can keep track of those numbers by looking at the five W’s and the H, the primary six questions asked when seeking an answer to solve a problem! 

The Problem: Knowing your blood pressure!

Who?

This one is easy! You! You are responsible for regularly having your blood pressure read.

Why?

Regularly measuring your blood pressure can help your healthcare team diagnose any problems, even before you have symptoms. Many people have high blood pressure, and they don’t know it. 

Where?

Here are some places you can get your blood pressure checked:

• Doctor’s office – You’ve probably never been in a doctor’s office where your blood pressure has NOT been checked! From your primary care provider to healthcare specialists, they all take a baseline blood pressure. I’m referring to your OB/GYN offices, podiatrists, urologists, etc. 

• Pharmacies – Most all pharmacies have a digital blood pressure machine for public access.

• Home – You may already have a blood pressure monitor at home or may be able to buy one inexpensively at pharmacies, department stores, or online.

Keeping your own “journal” or list of your blood pressure readings is vital. Be sure to write down the date, time, and place where you do it so the doctor can see what may affect your blood pressure. 

To check your blood pressure measuring device for accuracy, take it to a doctor’s appointment and take your reading just after the provider does. The readings should be closely the same. 

What?

There are many things that can affect your blood pressure. Let’s talk about a few of them:

• Nerves – Sometimes, being nervous when going to the doctor or just taking your blood pressure can make it higher. 

• How you sit when taking it – Your arm needs to be resting on something chest height and without your legs crossed. 

• What you ate, drank, or your movement before it is taken – Smoking, caffeine, and alcohol can increase your blood pressure. If you’ve been actively exercising within the 30 minutes before your reading, it may also make your blood pressure higher. 

You want to have an accurate blood pressure reading, so try to think about these things, that may change the results, ahead of time. You may receive unnecessary treatment if it is high because of one of these factors. You may not receive treatment at all if it is lower than usual. 

When?

Regularly. Usually, it would be best if you took your blood pressure at the same time every day. If you’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure, you need to talk with your doctor about how often they would like to have you take it.

Keep a blood pressure journal or log. Please take this to all of your appointments with healthcare providers so that they can see your results. 

How?

These things are necessary to keep in mind to take your blood pressure the correct way and get the most accurate reading:

• Have an empty bladder.

• Keep both feet flat in front of you.  

• Don’t talk while your pressure is taken.

• No eating or drinking for 30 minutes before your reading.

• Sit comfortably with your back supported. Stay in that position for five minutes before your blood pressure measured. 

• Rest your arm at chest height, preferably on a table.

• The cuff should be snug but not too tight. It should be on your bare skin, not covering any clothing. 

Key Points to Remember

• You may not know you have high blood pressure as you may have no signs and symptoms.

• Monitor your blood pressure regularly and correctly, especially if you are diagnosed with high blood pressure (hypertension).

• Keep a log of your readings. Sharing this with your healthcare provider can be very helpful in determining whether or not you need treatment for high blood pressure. 

Be a part of the solution!

We want to stay on top of the ongoing research regarding high blood pressure (hypertension).

Your insights matter! 

Please take a few minutes to complete this short questionnaire about this topic. You’ll be helping our researchers understand your needs and experiences and create the best solution for you and others like you. 

Remember:

• Your answers are confidential and anonymous.

• The questionnaire takes a few short minutes to complete. 

• Your voice can make a difference!