Self-measurement of blood pressure: issues related to the training of patients. Canadian Coalition for High Blood Pressure Prevention and Control.

For effective self-measurement of blood pressure, patients need to be able to obtain accurate and reproducible measurements. Criteria for measuring blood pressure have been well developed in research studies, and through the use of standardized training programs it has been established that nonmedically trained individuals can obtain valid measurements. These recommendations for blood pressure measurement were adapted to the self-measurement situation. Either manual sphygmomanometers or automated electronic devices can be used effectively. Although automated devices may be easier to use, the health care practitioner should ensure that any such device has been demonstrated to be accurate and reliable before its adoption. There are no reported programs available for training individuals in the use of self-measurement. A check-list has been developed for use by health care practitioners. It is estimated that proper training will usually take more than 20 mins. Since many health care practitioners do not use the recommended blood pressure measurement technique, there is also a need to develop programs to 'train the trainers'. Finally, individuals undertaking regular self-measurement should have their technique and the calibration of their instruments checked at regular intervals (six to 12 months).