SELF-MEASUREMENT OF BLOOD-PRESSURE - ASSESSMENT OF EQUIPMENT

Equipment for the self-measurement of blood pressure is readily availa ble to consumers. These devices use one or more surrogate (indirect) m easures of pressure to estimate systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Manual auscultatory devices using stethoscope and sphygmomanometer ha ve been adapted for home use, but a variety of automated devices based on auscultation, oscillometry, and other techniques are available and may be more suitable for individuals who have limited vision, hearing or dexterity. Despite the existence of voluntary evaluation protocols and mandatory manufacturing standards, blood pressure readings from s ome automatic devices may not be accurate. Some devices are packaged w ith insufficient information to ensure proper use, and most individual s need some form of guidance in their use and calibration testing. If self-measurement of blood pressure is to be of benefit, the health car e professional must recommend only those devices that are accurate and suitable to the patient or client. The Canadian Coalition for High Bl ood Pressure Prevention and Control will endeavour to develop a regula r means by which health care professionals can keep informed of availa ble devices for blood pressure self-measurement.