Table of contents:
- Why do you need a tensimeter at home?
- What are the criteria for choosing the right tensimeter?
- 1. Determine the type and model of tensimeter
- 2. Find the correct tensimeter cuff size
- 3. Check the accuracy and tensimeter standardization
- 4. Choose the one that is easy to use
- 5. Choose tensimeter according to your conditions
- 6. Check and read the warranty card
- 7. Make sure the tensimeter is calibrated
- Additional features of measuring blood pressure
Having a blood pressure meter or measuring device at home is very important so that you can regularly monitor your blood pressure, especially if you have hypertension. However, maybe you are confused about how to choose the right tensimeter for home use. Then, how do you choose it?
Why do you need a tensimeter at home?
There are several reasons why medical organizations around the world stress the importance of having a tensimeter or blood pressure measuring device at home. In addition to reducing the cost of seeing a doctor, measuring blood pressure regularly at home can also produce a more accurate blood pressure number.
Then, you too will be spared white-coat hypertension or white coat syndrome, which can occur when you are stressed and anxious when your tension is measured in a hospital or clinic. This method can also help doctors monitor the results of hypertension drugs and provide appropriate treatment for your condition to avoid complications of hypertension, such as stroke or heart disease.
Studies show that even patients who regularly check their blood pressure at home can better control their hypertension symptoms because they feel actively involved in its treatment. It can also detect masked hypertension aka high blood pressure in disguise because the symptoms are hard to find.
What are the criteria for choosing the right tensimeter?
Well, if you are looking for a blood pressure device for home, here are some criteria that you should consider before buying:
1. Determine the type and model of tensimeter
There are many models of blood pressure devices that are sold in the market, both manual, semi-automatic, and automatic. However, the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends an automatic home blood pressure meter, which is easier to use than others.
The reason is, using a manual tensimeter is more troublesome because you have to wrap the cuff around the arm and you have to inflate it using a rubber balloon at the end of the cuff. The semi-automatic blood pressure device also needs to wrap the cuff around the arm, but the cuff is able to expand automatically with the push of a button. The blood pressure results have also been displayed on a digital monitor.
On the other hand, automatic tensimeter is very easy to use. This type has a cuff that can stay tucked into the arm without wrapping it. With the press of a button, the cuff will expand automatically and immediately display the blood pressure results on the digital monitor.
Besides being easy to use, automatic tensimeter is also considered to be more accurate. This type of measuring instrument is said to be safer because it does not use mercury. You are also advised not to use a tension device with a digital monitor that is directly attached to your arm or finger because it is less accurate.
However, if you are still in doubt, it never hurts to consult a doctor first. Your doctor can help you choose the best blood pressure measurement model for you.
2. Find the correct tensimeter cuff size
Incorrect size of the cuff on the tensimeter can result in errors in blood pressure measurement. Therefore, choose a cuff size that fits your arm. Although the size of the cuff can generally be adjusted according to the size of the arm, it is better if you make sure the size of the cuff is accurate.
To find out, measure the circumference of your arm between your shoulder and elbow using a measuring tape. The right cuff is 80% long and at least 40% wide of your arm circumference.
Children and adults with smaller or larger arms may need a specially sized tensimeter cuff. This special cuff is available from medical equipment supply companies, can be ordered directly to the company or to certain pharmacies.
3. Check the accuracy and tensimeter standardization
Each blood pressure device must go through a series of standardized protocols to ensure its accuracy. Therefore, make sure the tensimeter you choose has been tested, validated, and approved for accuracy by accredited bodies such as European Society of Hypertension (ESH), The British Hypertension Society, or The US Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI).
Although still not perfect, currently being developed a universal standard that must be used by all tensimeter manufacturers in the world. This standardization has certainly been approved by the above bodies.
A good tensimeter manufacturer will certify that their product complies with the accredited standard on the product label. However, if not, be sure to check yourself on the website of the organization concerned. Each of the organizations above has a list of approved devices on their respective websites.
4. Choose the one that is easy to use
Choose a blood pressure meter that is easy to use at home. The more complicated it is to use it, the less often you will use it for tension check. Make sure the monitor screen is easy to read and understand and the buttons are large and easy to understand. The instructions for applying the cuff and operating the monitor should be clear.
You should also consider whether the tensimeter is easy to carry around, especially if you travel a lot or are advised to take your blood pressure several times a day.
5. Choose tensimeter according to your conditions
Choose a blood pressure measuring device that suits your condition. If you buy a blood pressure measuring device for the elderly, hypertension in pregnant women, or hypertension in children, make sure it is appropriate and suitable for these conditions. Also make sure the blood pressure meter meets the standards according to your age and health condition by an accredited organization.
6. Check and read the warranty card
Most blood pressure monitors and cuffs have a warranty of one to five years to guarantee proper functioning of the device. Therefore, you need to read the warranty card to find out whether the warranty applies to all tensimeter devices, only the digital display, or the monitor but does not include the cuff.
Be aware that some brands will charge an additional fee for warranty activation, while other brands offer a free warranty with a monitor purchase.
7. Make sure the tensimeter is calibrated
Your blood pressure device works automatically. Therefore, you need to calibrate or readjust the tool regularly, at least once every 1-2 years.
This way, your tensimeter will avoid damage and will always show you the most accurate blood pressure reading. To perform the calibration process, you usually have to send the tool back to the manufacturer or the manufacturer.
Additional features of measuring blood pressure
Most manufacturers have released tensimeters with additional features that you may find useful. Here are some of these additional features:
- Heart-related measurements
Take your pulse, count irregular heartbeats, and track changes per second in your systolic or diastolic level. Users who wish to measure blood pressure to simultaneously monitor heart conditions can benefit from this feature, but it may not be necessary for others.
- Connectivity
Some tension meter monitors can be connected to a computer or laptop so that you can download and save the readings. Several other monitors can be connected to a smartphone via blight. Some even come with a smart app for you to download on your smartphone to help monitor your blood pressure readings anytime and anywhere.
- Risk category indicators
This feature will tell you whether your blood pressure is in the high range or is in the risk category.
- Average data function
With this feature it will allow you to collect your blood pressure results over a period of time and get an overall average.
- Memory storage
Determine the required memory storage capacity based on the number of times per day you need to check your blood pressure. You should also take into account the features of some users if you and other family members alike have to test their blood pressure regularly. Also make sure the tool allows you to download the stored data.
In addition, there are also various tensimeter features such as a wireless monitor (wireless), packaged with a number of cufflinks and a large digit screen. The more complete the features found on the blood pressure meter, the more so the price will increase. All of these additional features can make your tensimeter cost more than your estimated budget.
So, consider carefully whether you really need all the features listed above. Better, first determine the budget and estimated costs before buying blood pressure kits and what features you need according to your condition. There is nothing wrong with choosing a cheaper tensimeter as long as it has the features that meet your needs.
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