How to correctly measure blood pressure with an automatic tonometer?

What is a tonometer for?

The main purpose of the tonometer is to measure and control blood pressure, a systematic increase in which can be a sign of a wide variety of diseases. Perhaps the most serious and widespread of them is hypertension, or as the disease is popularly called the “silent killer.” The main danger of the disease is that it may not manifest itself for years, and then suddenly lead to vascular disasters: angina pectoris, stroke, myocardial infarction, heart and kidney failure.

Hypertension is called the “silent killer” due to its long absence of symptoms.

Despite the apparent simplicity of the tonometer design, independent use of the device requires compliance with some recommendations and requirements. Only its correct use can guarantee the user the provision of accurate information about the state of his health.

Design and principle of operation

The semi-automatic tonometer consists of the following components:

• Housing with display.
• Shoulder cuff.
• Air pump.

The manufacturer may include additional cuffs with different sizes, a case for secure storage of the device, and removable batteries.

The principle of operation of a semi-automatic device, like an automatic machine, is to use the oscillometric method of measuring blood pressure. When the patient's arm is compressed by an inflated cuff, blood pressure fluctuations occur, which in turn cause air fluctuations, which are recorded by the device and then processed by it. As a result, the necessary readings appear on the screen.

Factors influencing the measurement result

In addition to proper use of the tonometer, the result of taking blood pressure readings can also be affected by factors such as:

• age (in young people, normal blood pressure is considered to be 120/80 mm Hg with a permissible deviation of 10 mm Hg);
• gender (according to the observations of specialists, in women the blood pressure differs by 5-10 mm Hg from the blood pressure values ​​of men);
• time of day (in the evening, blood pressure usually increases slightly);
• consumption of certain foods (caffeine, fried, salty, sweet and fatty foods are known to increase blood pressure);
• state of physical activity before measurement (after walking, playing sports, blood pressure increases, and at rest it returns to normal);
• the presence of bad habits (smoking and drinking even a small amount of alcohol provoke an increase in blood pressure).

To obtain the most accurate results, before using the tonometer, it is recommended to refrain from smoking, drinking strong tea and coffee, and taking medications that affect the cardiovascular system.

Blood pressure readings should not be taken immediately after drinking coffee and tea.

Advantages and disadvantages of semi-automatic machines

Semi-automatic blood pressure monitors have their positive and negative sides. They should be taken into account when choosing a device.

Advantages of a semi-automatic machine:

• Blood pressure measurement accuracy.
• Ability to save test results.
• Low price compared to automatic devices.
• Long service life.
• Availability of additional functions.
• Lower error.

One of the disadvantages is that it is powered by removable batteries. Users have to stock up on them. When the batteries are running low, the device may provide inaccurate BP readings.

To power the tonometer, 4 AA batteries are most often used.

Which hand is the correct one to measure blood pressure on?

Blood pressure is measured in the upper forearm. You can use any hand, but keep in mind that the readings will be slightly different.

It is believed that right-handers have higher blood pressure on the left hand, and left-handers have higher pressure on the right, so it is recommended that right-handers take blood pressure readings from the left hand, and left-handers from the right.

In order to select one arm on which blood pressure readings will be taken continuously in the future, it is necessary to take measurements on both limbs 10 times with an interval of 5 minutes (to restore blood circulation). The difference in the values ​​​​obtained from measurements on different hands is explained by the anatomical feature of the structure of the cardiovascular system of each individual person.

What is a semi-automatic blood pressure monitor?

A semi-automatic tonometer is a device that helps measure blood pressure. But it differs from similar automatic and mechanical devices. A semi-automatic device is something in between the indicated types of meters.

The measurement process with its help occurs half manually, half automatically. You have to pump air into the cuff with your hands, and the pressure reading is determined by the device itself.

Also, many models of semi-automatic tonometers differ from mechanical devices in that they have additional functions, for example, an arrhythmia indicator, pulse rate measurement, calculation of average blood pressure, a clock, etc.

A semi-automatic tonometer is a kind of “golden mean” between a mechanical and automatic device

How to use a mechanical and electronic blood pressure monitor

Modern manufacturers of medical equipment market electronic and mechanical blood pressure monitors that perform the same function, but differ from each other in design and method of determining blood pressure.

Regardless of the device chosen, before taking measurements, it is necessary to put on the tonometer cuff so that it is located 2-2.5 cm above the elbow joint. There must be free space between the cuff and the forearm, into which an adult’s finger can easily fit. Lying down during measurement is not recommended; to obtain the most accurate results, it is better to sit the person in a comfortable chair or on a chair.

It is recommended to check blood pressure in a calm state, in silence, with a straight back and an empty bladder. It is prohibited to measure blood pressure while intoxicated or during periods of excitement or stress.

Mechanical tonometer

To measure blood pressure with a manual device you must:

• take a comfortable position;
• put the device cuff on your arm;
• place the dial at eye level;
• place the phonendoscope on the brachial artery (bend of the elbow), feel the pulsation;
• Screw the wheel tightly on the side of the pear;
• pump air into the cuff until the arrow reaches 210 mmHg. Art.;
• release the bulb, open the valve slightly;
• carefully watching the air come out, wait for the peculiar beats and fix the dial mark on the first (upper systolic pressure) and last audible sound (lower diastolic pressure);
• record measurement results;
• After 3 minutes, measure the pressure on the second arm.

When using a mechanical tonometer, control and constant monitoring of the device is important.

Electronic tonometer

An electric tonometer, unlike a mechanical device, takes measurements automatically, so measuring pressure with its help will not be difficult even for a person far from modern technology.

Correct use of an electrical device includes:

• placement of the cuff on the arm;
• placing the hand at heart level;
• waiting for measurement results on the screen;
• repeat the study to determine the average value after 5 minutes.

Wrist blood pressure monitor

The most convenient for older people is a wrist tonometer, which is a compact device for independently determining blood pressure. Of all the existing models of such devices, the Japanese hand tonometer “Omron” is especially popular, equipped with a liquid crystal display and a reliable cuff, characterized by compact dimensions, a significant amount of memory and the ability to operate on batteries or a rechargeable battery. Some variations of the omron wrist meter allow you to find out data on the heart rate due to the built-in arrhythmia indicator.

How do electronic devices work?

The main difference between the semi-automatic model is in its design - during manual pumping, blood pressure readings are performed automatically, that is, by an electronic device.

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Devices for measuring pressure consist of a display, a pneumatic chamber in a fabric shell and an air blower. The semi-automatic tonometer is equipped with a pear-shaped pump; air is pumped manually. The measurement is carried out automatically, the data is displayed on the display. The heart rate is also displayed there. The design of the device and ease of use allows you to measure systolic and diastolic blood pressure at home. To control blood pressure levels, it must be measured regularly (at least once every 7 days), at one time with one tonometer.

How does a tonometer work?

The operating principle of the device is based on the oscillometric method of determining blood pressure, which consists in capturing short-term pressure surges in the pneumatic chamber caused by arterial pulsation. Information about changes in pressure in the pneumatic chamber caused by pulsation of the artery is captured and processed by an electronic device built into the body. The air blower, cuff and pressure gauge are connected by hoses.

Modern models of semi-automatic tonometers are equipped with a number of necessary and useful functions. The device takes three measurements automatically and displays the average in less than 2 minutes. The functions of detecting pulse arrhythmia are irreplaceable. The artificial intelligence system eliminates the possibility of measurement errors in arrhythmia. The devices are equipped with memory for storing data, a calendar, a clock, measurement quality control systems and battery saving systems.

Advantages of semi-automatic tonometers for measuring blood pressure

Advantages of the device.
A semi-automatic blood pressure meter has several advantages. Semi-automatic blood pressure monitors with a shoulder cuff are considered the most accurate. The absence of an electric compressor pumping air reduces the risk of breakdown and significantly extends the service life of the device. The advantages also include the good price/quality ratio of semi-automatic tonometers.

Disadvantages of using a semi-automatic machine

If blood pressure is monitored by older people or patients with musculoskeletal disorders, manually pumping air into the pneumatic chamber using a bulb can be difficult. In such cases, it is better to purchase an automatic tonometer. Perhaps this is the only factor that is considered a disadvantage of semi-automatic tonometers.

Errors when using a tonometer

Most often, inaccuracies in measuring blood pressure using a tonometer may result from improper use of the device or inattention on the part of the person himself.

1. When placing the hand below the chest level, the blood pressure value may be less than the actual value.
2. If the person is not leaning on the back of a chair during measurement, pressure readings may be higher due to muscle tension.
3. If the cuff of the device is tightened too tightly, the results may deviate upward.
4. If the cuff is worn over a clothing sleeve, blood pressure readings may be unreliable. Measurements should be taken only on your bare hand.
5. If the cuff is poorly inflated with air, the device readings may be somewhat overestimated.
6. Talking, watching TV and gesturing are not allowed while using the tonometer. Such actions certainly contribute to elevated blood pressure values.
7. Taking blood pressure readings immediately after eating or physical activity is the reason for the measurement values ​​being too high.
8. It is incorrect to measure blood pressure without short breaks. Five-minute time intervals between readings are required.

It is better to select and buy tonometers in pharmacies or specialized stores that can provide documents confirming the originality, reliability and high quality of devices for measuring blood pressure.

What to look for when purchasing?

When purchasing, you should pay attention to the frequency of use of the tonometer and who will use it.
Before purchasing, it is better to consult a doctor. Individual and age characteristics, the nature of the disease, additional tasks assigned to the tonometer determine the choice of the type of device. To measure blood pressure, a pediatrician or cardiologist will select a model, taking into account the following parameters:

• type - automatic or semi-automatic;
• frequency of use;
• convenience of displaying measurement results;
• the patient’s ability to use the selected model;
• correct cuff size;
• need for additional options.

To determine the required size, measure the circumference of the arm in the place where it will be attached, between the elbow and shoulder. Most devices are equipped with a cuff size M. Large people should purchase a special cuff with a larger diameter. If the wrong size is selected, the results may be inaccurate. You can determine the cuff size from the size table:

The best semi-automatic blood pressure monitors

There are many models of semi-automatic tonometers, so choosing is often difficult. You can pay attention to the following devices. Users respond positively to them; they are in great demand in stores and pharmacies.

Little Doctor LD-22

This is a fairly budget model, the cost of which is only 1.5 thousand rubles. But in terms of quality, it is in no way inferior to more expensive devices; it simply does not have additional functions besides measuring blood pressure and pulse rate.

This tonometer is suitable for people over 15 years of age. The size of its cuff is 25-37 cm. Therefore, it is suitable for both thin and overweight patients.

LD2

This is also an inexpensive model, which costs about 1.5 thousand rubles. The device is very convenient, helps to accurately determine blood pressure and pulse rate readings. It has a cuff whose size is 25-35 cm.

The device is equipped with only basic functionality; there are no additional options. Therefore the cost is low. The semi-automatic tonometer operates on removable batteries. They are enough for about a thousand measurements.

LD2 - inexpensive and compact automatic tonometer

B.WELL WA-22H

This model of semi-automatic blood pressure monitor will cost the buyer approximately 1.7 thousand rubles. Its difference from many semi-automatic machines is that it can operate from the network, and not just from batteries. This is already a big plus for users, although the network adapter will have to be purchased separately.

The device has the longest cuff, so it is suitable for patients of both thin and heavy build. The device has a basic set of functions: you can measure blood pressure, determine pulse rate, and save results.

It is worth noting that this model has a large display and large numbers, so it is suitable for people with visual impairments.

Nissei DS-137

A good model of a tonometer, the cost of which is about 2 thousand rubles. The device has a fairly large display, which is ideal for older people with poor vision. The device measures blood pressure, checks pulse, and allows you to save measurement results.

The kit includes a cuff measuring 22-32 cm. The tonometer runs on four batteries.

Microlife BP A50

You can purchase this model for 1.5 thousand rubles. The device copes well with its main task – measuring a person’s blood pressure. It also determines the heart rate and saves the measurements taken.

This tonometer differs in that it is able to recognize when a person experiences surges in blood pressure. The cuff of the device has a standard size. The device operates on batteries.

Microlife BP A50 – Swiss quality at an affordable price

A&D UA-705

This is already a more expensive model, which can be bought for about 2.3 thousand rubles. It has the most advanced functionality. In addition to measuring blood pressure, the tonometer determines the pulse rate, recognizes heartbeat signals and arrhythmia. Measurement results can be saved.

The kit includes a cuff that measures no more than 32 cm.

TENSOVAL COMPACT

The cost of such a model is about 2 thousand rubles. The tonometer is of high quality, works for a long time without failures, and has an attractive design. It has no additional functions, only measuring blood pressure and pulse.

The device is designed for two users. But at the same time, only one memory cell is allocated for each of them. The device runs on batteries. They are included in the kit. Their charge lasts for a year of use. The cuff has a universal size.

OMRON M1 Eco

The cost of such a model is about 2 thousand rubles. It helps in measuring blood pressure, determining pulse rate, and recognizing disorders in the functioning of the heart and blood vessels. The device also allows you to save the obtained blood pressure readings.

The device includes additional cuffs so that you can measure blood pressure for both adults and children. When used, the tonometer itself notifies the person that there is enough air in the cuff to measure blood pressure.

Semi-automatic blood pressure monitor OMRON M1 Eco is suitable for use by the whole family

OMRON M1 Compact

The list of budget semi-automatic blood pressure monitors is supplemented by this model. It costs about 1.5 thousand rubles. A good device that perfectly performs its functions of measuring blood pressure and determining pulse rate.

It is possible to save test results. The cuff size is standard, so it is intended only for adults.

OMRON S1

The cost of this tonometer is 1.3 thousand rubles. Measures blood pressure accurately and helps you know your pulse. You can save test results. The tonometer has only basic functions, there are no additional features.

The cuff size is universal. To operate the device, you will need to purchase batteries; it does not operate on mains power.

What is the error of an electronic tonometer?

Electronic tonometer

- This is an automatic or semi-automatic battery-powered device. In the first case, the entire process is automated; in the second, air is pumped into the cuff manually. Although doctors consider electronic devices to be less accurate, their accuracy also depends on many factors. Officially, manufacturers set the possible difference to be no more than 3 mmHg. Art. However, depending on the degree of correctness of use of the device, it may increase:

• Up to ±5 mm Hg. Art. – with a systematic component of measurement error.
• Up to ±8 mm Hg. Art. – if the error component is random.

If we take into account that the mechanical method of measuring pressure is influenced no less (and in some cases more) by external and internal factors, then confidence in the superiority of mechanical tonometers no longer looks so solid.

Recommendations for measuring blood pressure

Blood pressure is affected by various factors. Without knowing the recommendations for correct measurement, you can get data that does not correspond to reality. Doctors advise the following:

• Check blood pressure 1-1.5 times after eating.
• Do not measure your blood pressure immediately after physical activity.
• Do not take measurements if you are psycho-emotionally unstable.
• Do not drink coffee an hour before the procedure, as it contains caffeine, which increases blood pressure.
• During the blood pressure check, do not talk or move; you must completely relax.
• Make sure that the arm on which the cuff is applied is at the level of the heart.
• The cuff should be fixed securely, but so that it does not dangle or, conversely, does not put too much pressure on the shoulder.
• Do not smoke an hour before measuring blood pressure.

Any physical activity increases blood pressure; it is recommended to rest for 15 minutes before measuring it.

Setting up the tonometer

The main condition for taking measurements at home is the correct setup of the device. Therefore, when purchasing, you need to check the contents and make sure that everything is in place. Before starting work:

• Please read the instructions for use carefully.
• Insert a working battery into the slot provided for this purpose.
• Press the power button and enter the date, time, etc., if provided by the functionality.
• After this, put the cuff on your shoulder or wrist and take several control measurements to make sure the tonometer is working properly.

If you buy a device in a store or pharmacy, then the tonometer can be checked on the spot - in this case, you will be convinced of its functionality “without leaving the cash register.” When purchasing online, a reliable way is to choose a trusted supplier. The German company Beurer is one of the leaders in the global market, and their beauty and health products have received awards at international exhibitions.