Monitoring blood pressure at home offers a valuable way to track cardiovascular health and provides healthcare providers with a comprehensive view of readings over time. Using a Relion blood pressure monitor correctly is important for obtaining accurate measurements, which aids in effective health management. This guide will walk through setting up and using your Relion monitor to ensure reliable readings.
Initial Setup of Your Monitor
Upon unboxing your Relion blood pressure monitor, prepare the unit for use. Most Relion models operate on AA or AAA batteries, which should be inserted into the battery compartment. Next, connect the air tube from the arm cuff to the monitor unit by plugging the hose securely into the designated port on the device. After connecting the cuff and inserting batteries, power on the monitor to check the display and ensure it is ready for use.
Preparing for an Accurate Measurement
Achieving accurate blood pressure readings begins with proper preparation. Sit quietly and rest for at least five minutes before taking a measurement, avoiding any talking. Additionally, refrain from consuming caffeine, alcohol, or smoking, and avoid strenuous exercise for at least 30 minutes prior to your measurement.
Your body position also significantly impacts reading accuracy. Sit upright with your back supported and both feet flat on the floor, ensuring your legs are uncrossed. Position your arm on a flat surface so that the cuff is at the same level as your heart.
Ensuring the correct cuff size is important, as an ill-fitting cuff can lead to inaccurate results. A cuff that is too small might yield falsely high readings, while one that is too large could produce falsely low readings. The middle of the cuff’s inflatable bladder should be positioned directly over the brachial artery in your upper arm.
Taking a Blood Pressure Reading
With the monitor set up and proper preparation complete, you can take a blood pressure reading. Place the arm cuff directly on your bare upper arm, approximately one to two inches above the bend of your elbow. The tubing should run down the center or slightly to the right of your arm, aligning with your middle finger. Ensure the cuff is snug around your arm, allowing just enough space to slide two fingertips underneath.
Once the cuff is correctly positioned and your arm is supported at heart level, press the ‘Start’ button on your Relion monitor. The cuff will then automatically inflate and gradually deflate as the monitor measures your blood pressure. The monitor’s display will show two numbers for blood pressure, along with your pulse rate, once the measurement is complete. It is recommended to take two or three readings, waiting one to two minutes between each, and then record the results.
Interpreting Your Results and Troubleshooting
Understanding the numbers displayed on your Relion monitor is important for tracking your health. Blood pressure readings consist of two main numbers: systolic and diastolic. The systolic pressure, the top number, indicates the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. The diastolic pressure, the bottom number, represents the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats. The third number displayed is your pulse rate.
For general guidance, a normal blood pressure reading is considered less than 120 mmHg systolic and less than 80 mmHg diastolic. Readings between 120-129 systolic and less than 80 diastolic are categorized as elevated. Readings of 130-139 systolic or 80-89 diastolic are considered Stage 1 hypertension, while 140 or higher systolic or 90 or higher diastolic are Stage 2 hypertension. Remember that these are general guidelines, and any concerns about your readings should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.
If your Relion monitor displays an error message, common issues can often be resolved with simple troubleshooting. An “E1” or similar error indicates that the cuff was not applied correctly or that there was movement during the measurement. Ensure the cuff is properly secured and remain still and quiet during the measurement process. If a “cuff error” occurs, check that the air tube is securely connected to the monitor and that the cuff itself is not damaged. Persistent errors or unusual readings warrant consulting your monitor’s instruction manual or contacting customer support for further assistance.