Accuracy of Home BP Monitoring

[MichaelJH]

I suggested some time ago that people should check their home equipment against that of their GP or practice nurse. Tidying up I came across the results from a comparison made some years ago - I got a refund after my GP kindly write a note. The figures were: Brand X 155/89, GP 135/80. I think I was a bit stressed as later readings were lower! So definitely check your home BP monitor.

[Lezzers]

That's interesting, I asked on a other site how often people either calibrate or change their BP monitor. The general consensus was why was I even taking it anyway!! However, my husbands BP often dips to 80's/50's & as the heart nurse actually gave us her monitor, plus cardiologist & GP have both said monitor it, I guess it's important! So, ill ask again how often would you calibrate/change your BP monitor, do they have a life span?

[MichaelJH Heart Star in reply to Lezzers]

The equipment in my GP practice is calibrated as a minimum annually but equipment like BP monitors, BG meters and scales more frequently. As was said when the problem was found with my kit you could make the wrong decision based on that reading!

[Lezzers in reply to MichaelJH]

Gotta go to surgery for BP reading soon, will take the monitor & compare the readings

[SpiritoftheFloyd]

Good point! Thanks for the prompt. I'm seeing my HF nurse on 30th July. I'll take mine with me so I can compare how mine does versus her equipment.

[jerry12953]

My blood pressure is usually high at my GP surgery, but only borderline at home. Quite the opposite to your situation..... . Don't they call it white coat syndrome?

[MichaelJH Heart Star in reply to jerry12953]

The readings were taken at the same time showing my meter was reading high. If you buy a meter you should check it against your GP's to ensure accuracy.

[jerry12953]

Michael,

Sorry, I wasn't doubting your post; I just wanted to say that my situation was the opposite. Maybe I should start a separate thread on white coat syndrome........ ?

[MichaelJH Heart Star in reply to jerry12953]

It has been done a number of times. Here is one thread:

healthunlocked.com/bhf/post...

[Benzman]

I looked into calibrating an ageing bp monitor but realised that it was cheaper to buy a new one. On one occasion when paramedics came to the house in response to a Tia they checked our monitor against their's and the results were identical.

[DaveTR]

Hi there a little late to the party.....

I have a Salter Automatic Arm Blood Pressure Monitor (BPA-9200-GB) and in the guide it says "Performance should be checked every 2 years".

As Benzman said, it would be cheaper to buy a replacement at that point.