Blood pressure monitors can bring relief or anxiety depending upon the circumstances. Sometimes, psychology can play a big role in blood pressure monitor ‘problems’. Sometimes, the issues are simply practical ones. Please read the guide below where we answer some of the most frequently asked questions relating to our blood pressure monitor.
Remember that blood pressure fluctuates constantly, and anxiety about accuracy can inflate this. When someone trusts their monitor, they are less likely to see unusual readings, hopefully the article below will help to put your mind and rest and help you to become much more confident when using a Suresign Blood Pressure Monitor.
Blood Pressure Cuff – Assembly & Fit
To assemble the cuff, place the edge of the cuff through the metal D-ring as shown in the image below.
Position the cuff on your left arm (directly on bare skin not over clothing) with the tube on the inner arm. The cuff should be at the same height as your heart, with the lower end of the cuff approximately 2-3cm above the elbow.
Secure the cuff so that it is tight, but with just enough space to fit two fingers between the cuff and your arm.
When the cuff is on your arm as detailed above, you can check that it is the correct size by using the guidelines printed on the cuff. When fastened the mark <<INDEX>> should point to the <<NORMAL (22-32cm)>>marked area of the cuff.
If the mark points to the area on the left, marked <<←>> this indicates that the cuff is too small, and the readings may be high and the inflation of the cuff will be too tight against the arm.
If the mark points to the area on the right, marked <<→>> this indicates that the cuff is too large, and the readings may be low due to inadequate inflation against the arm.
Prepare for the Measurement
To obtain an accurate blood pressure reading, it is important to prepare yourself properly for the test. Being relaxed and calm will help prevent incorrect readings, so find a quiet and comfortable place to sit, with your back straight and feet positioned flat on the floor. Rest for at least five minutes before taking the reading as this will produce a more accurate result. This is why measuring blood pressure at home can be advantageous, as some patients experience anxiety when attending the GP which can drive their blood pressure up.
Tips to ensure Blood Pressure Monitor is working to full potential
- If your blood pressure inflates and deflates a few times before giving a reading, the cuff is not positioned correctly on your arm. Ensure that it is above your elbow and is tight but with just enough space to fit two fingers between the cuff and your arm.
- The cuff should be at the same height as your heart, preferably on the left arm.
- Do not move (or talk) when taking a measurement as this will affect the result.
- Do not take your blood pressure after having a bath or carrying out any exercise.
- Do not take your blood pressure directly before or after eating.
- Try to take your blood pressure at the same time every day.
- Take an average; do not rely on one reading
- If taking more than one reading, leave at least 15 minutes in between readings.
- If Error sign appears; make sure the cuff is put on correctly and the tube plug is inserted tightly.
- Please note that your blood pressure can vary significantly at different times.
Record the Measurement
Write down the blood pressure reading as soon as possible to avoid forgetting it or making a mistake when recording it. A log of your blood pressure readings over time will help you to understand your blood pressure, and periods of high or low pressure, and should be shared with your GP during check-ups or relevant consultations.
Error message or Inconsistent readings
- Incorrect positioning of the cuff – the cuff should be above your elbow, at the same height as your heart and preferably on the left arm. Ensure that it is tight but with just enough space to fit two fingers between the cuff and your arm.
- The cuff is not inserted correctly into the monitor – ensure the tube is correctly connected to the cuff and monitor and ensure the connector is fully inserted into left side port of the monitor. Avoid twisting the connecting tube.
- Ensure the cuff fits correctly – if the blood pressure cuff is too small or too large this can affect the readings. The cuff has markings which indicate if it is an appropriate size for the user. When fastening the cuff, the mark <<INDEX>> should point to the <<NORMAL (22-32cm)>> area of the cuff. If the mark points to the area on the left, marked <<←>> this indicates that the cuff is too small, and the readings may be too high, and the inflation of the cuff will be too tight against the arm. If the mark points to the area on the right marked <<→>> this indicates that the cuff is too large, and the readings may be too low as the level of inflation will not be sufficient to achieve an accurate reading.
- Cuff isn’t inflating – If the display screen is “On” but the cuff isn’t inflating this means that you need to change the batteries.
- Movement, talking or tensing of the arm during measurement – ensure that you are relaxed and seated or lying down prior to the measurement. Avoid moving or talking until the measurement has completed.
- Certain health conditions – users with an irregular heartbeat, weak pulse or deep arteriosclerosis should have their blood pressure taken by a healthcare professional.
Batteries
Do Not Use Rechargeable Batteries
Battery Installation: Open the battery cover and install four ‘AA’ type batteries into the compartment as indicated. Make sure that the batteries polarities (+/-) are positioned correctly. Never use force to remove the battery cover. Close the battery compartment.
Replace batteries when battery replacement indication appears on the display of if the display is blank when the O/I button is pressed.
The batteries delivered in the device are intended to check the device after sale; the period of service of these batteries can on occasion be less than other higher power batteries.
Replace all batteries simultaneously, do not use rechargeable batteries.
If the device is not going to be used for a long period, remove the batteries.
Do not leave run-down batteries in the device.
Re-inflation
The blood pressure monitor has four fixed levels of inflation (190, 230, 270 & 300mmHg).
If the initial inflation of the cuff is not sufficient to achieve a correct reading, the monitor will stop the measurement and re-inflate to the next level to achieve a reading.
This can also occur due to talking, movement or tensing of the arm during a measurement, it is not considered to be a fault.
Average Reading
The monitor can store 60 sets of readings each in ‘M1’ and ‘M2’ and will automatically calculate the average value of the latest 3 readings for ‘M1’ and ‘M2’ respectively.
After a measurement is finished or when the device is in standby mode, press ‘M1’ or ‘M2’ to recall the memory.
Press ‘M1′ and the display will show the average value of the latest 3 readings.
Press again and the display will show ’01’ and then change to display the measurement reading with date and then change to the measurement reading with time.
Press again and the display will show ’02’ which is the second to last reading etc.
Switching the monitor off
The monitor has been designed to go into a reduced power (STAND BY) mode to enable the time and date function to be permanently visible.
This does not drain the batteries excessively and prevents the need to re-enter the time/date every time you power- up the monitor.
The only way to turn the monitor off completely is to remove the batteries. We would suggest you only do this if you are not going to use the monitor for a significant period or if you store the monitor in a humid environment.
Setting the date and time
To set the date and time:
- When the device is powered up the display will show as 0000
- Press and hold the M1 button and at the same time press the O/I button and the year number will flash.
- Press button M1 to subtract or M2 to increase the numbers on the screen to read the correct year, then press O/I to confirm.
- When the year setup is finished, the month number will flash automatically. Please follow the same instruction to set month, date, time.
- Press button O/I to finish setup.
For further instruction please see page 9 of the instruction manual.
How to Care for your Suresign Blood Pressure Monitor
It is essential to protect this device against damp, direct sunlight, shock and vibrations. This device is not waterproof.
Remove the batteries if the device is to be stored for an extended period. Leakage of batteries can cause damage to the device. Avoid any contact with water, solvent, alcohol and petrol.
Keep the cuff away from sharp objects and do not try to stretch or twist the cuff.
The cuff should only be cleaned when necessary. The fabric should be cleaned with cotton wool and a 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide. After long use, partial discoloration of the fabrics covering the cuff may occur. The cuff must not be laundered or ironed.
Contact Ciga today for more information by calling 028 9694 3922.
