How do I know if my wrist blood pressure monitor is accurate

Wrist blood pressure monitors may exhibit some accuracy when detailed instructions are followed and measurements are compared with those taken by medical professionals. For the most reliable blood pressure measurements, the American Heart Association recommends an upper arm cuff sphygmomanometer with a cuff that wraps around the upper arm.

For some individuals with large upper extremities, it may be difficult to find the right size cuff at home. In such cases, measurement with a wrist blood pressure monitor may be feasible. Additionally, a wrist monitor may be an option for patients who have undergone axillary lymph node dissection.

Improper positioning of the wrist sphygmomanometer when used in the home environment often results in high measurements. To ensure accuracy, the device should be placed directly on the radial artery of the wrist (where the pulse can be felt) and should not be measured through clothing. Also, keep your wrist at the same level as your heart and remain stationary throughout the test. Avoid bending your wrist, which can interfere with the accuracy of the results.

It is important to note that home blood pressure readings often differ from those taken by a medical professional. If you have a wrist blood pressure monitor, it is recommended that you bring it to a healthcare professional for comparison. Your healthcare team can verify that your device is functioning properly by comparing arm and wrist blood pressure readings.