Use a validated automatic upper-arm blood pressure monitor
Sit quietly for 5 minutes before measuring
Avoid caffeine, smoking, exercise, and alcohol for 30 minutes before measuring
Empty your bladder before measuring
Sit with your back supported and feet flat on the floor
Keep your legs uncrossed
Rest your arm on a table at heart level
Place the cuff on bare skin, not over clothing
Use the correct cuff size
Wrap the cuff snugly around the upper arm
Do not talk or move during the measurement
Take two readings, 1 minute apart
Record both readings
Measure at the same time each day
Follow your doctor’s instructions for how often to measure
Bring your home readings to your healthcare provider
Seek medical help if readings are very high or if you have symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headache, or weakness