24 Hour AMBULATORY BLOOD PRESSURE MONITORING

What is an ambulatory blood pressure monitor?

An ambulatory blood pressure monitor is a small portable blood pressure device that is worn by the patient and automatically records your blood pressure at pre-set intervals, ie every 30 minutes during the day and every 60 minutes at night.

What to expect

The monitoring is done over a 24 hour period to check what happens to your blood pressure while you do you normal daily activities and while you are asleep.

During the 24 hours you need to:

• Shower or bathe prior to the monitor being put on. You must not get the monitor wet or remove the monitor or cuff during the test 24 hour period.
• Relax your arm and stop any activity while the device pumps up.
• Use only roll-on deodorant. (No aerosols or talc).
• List your medications and the time you take them.
• Note any symptoms and time they occur.
• List the time any activity or stressful situation occurred which may have elevated your blood pressure.
• Note the time you go to bed and wake in the morning.