Which device to use?
Most devices available on the market are not validated, which is why their readings are unreliable. Below, you will find some tips for choosing a suitable monitor.
Fortunately, there is a non-profit scientific organization whose mission is to improve the accuracy of blood pressure measurement. It is called STRIDE BP. In general, it recommends the use of automatic devices with internal memory to store previous measurements.
Validated Devices
STRIDE BP provides a list of validated devices. Before purchasing a blood pressure monitor, make sure it appears on this list.
List of blood pressure monitors validated by STRIDE BP:
You can also access the search tool for validated monitors by clicking on this link.
Cuffs
It is preferable to use arm blood pressure monitors, as they are more reliable than wrist monitors.
Although STRIDE BP has also validated some wrist monitors, an arm monitor should always be the first choice, reserving wrist devices for individuals in whom arm measurement is technically difficult, such as very obese patients.
The cuff size must be appropriate for the user's arm. Its length should be between 75-100% and its width between 37-50% of the arm's circumference, measured at the midpoint between the elbow and the shoulder.
Ensure that the blood pressure monitor includes a suitable cuff for you, as cuffs are not interchangeable between devices, even within the same brand.