How to use a sphygmomanometer correctly
A sphygmomanometer can be used both in a doctor’s office and at home to measure blood pressure. The Paramed cuff is very comfortable and simple to use. A stethoscope, which immediately simplifies the use of this device, is included.
How to prepare the device
A sphygmomanometer is composed of a cuff with tubes, an air pump, a manometer, a regulation key, and a storage case. The device must be assembled prior to use. Attach the manometer to the cuff using the tubes.
We also recommend inserting the cuff's edge into a special D-ring. Do not touch it after completing this step. Place the cuff in front of you so that the ring is in front. Insert the cuff's edge so that it's inside the ring. The special seal on the edge will prevent the cuff from falling out of the ring.
How to put the cuff on correctly
The manometer has a special fastening tool so that you can attach it in a place that's comfortable for you. For example, if you're measuring someone else's blood pressure, it's convenient for the readout to be at eye level so that you can carefully monitor the pressure gauge. If you're measuring your own blood pressure, you can similarly use this fastening tool to place the manometer so that it's comfortable for you.
How to take blood pressure with a sphygmomanometer
Put the stethoscope on and place the head on your humeral artery a bit above the elbow joint facing the body where the artery usually runs. You can secure the stethoscope using the cuff.
Quickly fill the cuff with air until it reaches your typical upper pressure reading with an additional 30 mmHg. Then, stop pumping in air.
Start letting air out of the cuff so that the manometer's arrow descends 2-3 marks per second. At the same time, listen to your heartbeat using the stethoscope. When your heart beats, the arrow usually makes a short, abrupt jump.
Note the pressure when you first hear your heartbeat. This is the upper, or systolic, pressure number. Note the pressure when the sound stops. This is the lower, or diastolic, pressure number. Then, release the rest of the air from the cuff.
After using the device, you should return it to the case. It will always be ready for use. We recommend writing down your measurements, which will help you and your doctor analyze your health.
How to obtain correct measurements
To obtain objective measurements, you need to follow some guidelines. Never measure blood pressure under the following circumstances:
- right after taking a shower or bath
- right after drinking coffee or tea
- right after drinking alcohol or smoking
- right after physical exercise
We recommend waiting 30 minutes before measuring blood pressure after the aforementioned situations.
It's similarly important to use the sphygmomanometer correctly. Pay attention to these rules:
- Don't put the cuff on with "Artery" behind your arm.
- Don't measure your blood pressure several times in a row without removing the cuff.
- Don't let the tubes get pinched when putting the device away.
You can watch a video that clearly shows all the steps of measuring blood pressure using a sphygmomanometer:
Paramed will be your reliable assistant for blood pressure measurements. Use it comfortably, be healthy, and stay safe!