The cuff should be about 2cm above your elbow to make sure it can detect the artery in your arm, just under the skin.

Place the arm cuff just above your elbow.

Make sure you place the cuff around your arm as described in the instructions.

Follow the instructions that came with your monitor.

How to measure your blood pressure at home using a home monitor If you are anxious or uncomfortable, your blood pressure will rise temporarily.

Make sure you are relaxed and comfortable.

Keep your arm and hand relaxed, not tensed. Position yourself so that your arm is resting on a surface and is at the same height as your heart.

Make sure your arm is supported and at the same level as your heart.

Stay in this position while you take your blood pressure. Have your back supported with your arm resting on a firm surface and your feet flat on the floor. Sit down somewhere quiet, ideally at a desk or table.

Rest for five minutes before you take your reading.

This is so that you can fit the cuff around your arm. Wear a short-sleeved t-shirt or something with sleeves you can push up easily, nothing tight. If you need to use the toilet, go before you measure your blood pressure. These can all raise your blood pressure temporarily. Don’t measure your blood pressure within half an hour of eating, smoking, drinking caffeinated drinks such as coffee, or exercising.

Avoid things that can raise your blood pressure in the short term.It covers how to choose an accurate monitor, how to use the machine correctly at home and when to measure. This A5 booklet provides clear instructions on how to measure blood pressure at home. You can also download our 'Measuring your blood pressure at home' leaflet at the end of the page.

The first step to managing your blood pressure is to Know Your Numbers! Watch our video to see how to measure your blood pressure at home and use our tips and resources below to check your own blood pressure at home.ĭownload our Checking your blood pressure at home poster and our Guidelines for home blood pressure testing to print and keep at home as a guide. Plus, read more about why home monitoring can be helpful and how to choose a monitor. Here you can find resources for home monitoring, see our simple steps to get an accurate reading and make the most out of home monitoring. Welcome to our home monitoring resource hub. How to measure your blood pressure at home.

Blood pressure logs to print