How to Compare Blood Pressure Cuffs

The market is full of a variety of blood pressure monitors that are available in different designs, quality and features. It is very important to consider the kind and size of a blood pressure monitor. You do not want to end up paying for something that doesn’t fit you right.

Instructions

Step 1 – Decide what kind of blood pressure cuffs you would be comfortable with. Would you like to have an aneroid or a digital blood pressure monitor? The aneroid one has a cuff that has an in-built sthethoscope. You should be proficient enough to use the stethoscope and the blood pressure monitor at the same. A digital blood pressure monitor has a cuff that you can easy slip your arm in. You can manually inflate it and it gives you error signals or messages if you have not worn the cuff right. It will also tell you if there was too much movement during the test.

Step 2 – Consider the features you need. Do you need a memory to save and compare reading? Or do you need something that allows you to store your readings on the computer and also print them. Would you prefer manual or automatic inflation of the cuff?

Step 3 – Think about how much you want to invest in your health checks. The aneroid monitors are more economical than the digital ones. The aneroid models are typically available between $20- $30 and digital ones are available for $40 to more than 100 $. However, think comfort and ease of use while considering the price you pay.

Step 4 – Once you have decided what you want to buy, look up for the model on the internet and read reviews. Find if of your friends or acquaintances are using the same model.

Step 5 – Check with your doctor that the model you are buying is good one. He can give you meaningful recommendations.

Tips & Warnings
Once a year calibrate your blood pressure monitor. Check resources to calibrate your monitor. Seek help from your doctor or nurse to get you the right cuff size since it is extremely critical for accuracy in readings.

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