Stay on top of your heart health by staying on top of your blood pressure. Monitoring at home can be easy, reliable, and incredibly helpful for you and your healthcare team. With the right device and a few simple habits, you can get consistent results that give a true picture of your heart health. Let’s break down how you can measure blood pressure accurately in the comfort of your home!
Below, we break down everything you need to know — from choosing a validated monitor to setting up the perfect testing routine.
Simple Steps for More Accurate Readings
1. Choose the Right Blood Pressure Monitor
Using a validated device is the foundation of accurate home measurements.
Pick an upper‑arm, fully automated monitor
These provide the most reliable readings and are simple to use.
Ask your pharmacist for help selecting a device
They can guide you toward models that fit your needs.
Look for the Hypertension Canada Recommended Equipment Seal
This ensures the monitor meets accuracy standards. You can also browse approved models on the Hypertension Canada website.
2. Make Sure the Cuff Fits Properly
A poorly fitted cuff can lead to inaccurate results.
Check the cuff size
Most devices include a standard medium cuff, but small, large, and extra‑large cuffs are available.
Use the markings on the cuff
They’ll help confirm if the cuff is the right size for your upper arm (not too loose or too tight).
3. Measure Blood Pressure at Consistent Times Each Day
Routine matters — try to take readings at the same time daily.
Every morning:
After using the bathroom, before breakfast, and before taking morning medications.
Every evening:
Either before dinner or a few hours afterward.
Before measuring:
Avoid smoking or tobacco products, eating, or drinking alcohol for at least 30 minutes.
Wait 1 hour after intense exercise.
4. Set Up the Right Testing Environment
Choose a quiet place where you can sit comfortably at a table.
Before you start:
- Rest quietly for at least 5 minutes
- Do not talk
- Sit with your back supported and both feet flat on the floor
- Avoid crossing your legs
Prepare your arm:
- Rest it on a table, bare (no tight sleeves)
- Position the cuff 2–3 cm (1 inch) above your elbow crease
- Ensure the tubing runs down the inside of your arm toward the monitor
- Some cuffs include a guide to align with the brachial artery
- The cuff should allow two fingers to fit snugly beneath the edge
- Keep the middle of the cuff at heart level (use a pillow under your arm if needed)
5. Take Your Reading
If you’ve done all the above, then you’re ready to measure blood pressure …
Start your monitor
Press the ON button and remain still.
During measurement:
Breathe normally and avoid talking.
Take two readings
Wait 1 minute between them.
Track your results
Record both readings with date and time, or use a Bluetooth‑enabled monitor with an app for automatic tracking.
Share your results regularly with your healthcare provider.
Blood Pressure Targets
For most adults, the recommended overall target is below 130/80 mmHg, based on the 2025 Hypertension Canada Guidelines.
Ask your healthcare provider what goal is appropriate for you.
Need Help Choosing a Monitor or Measuring Correctly?
Your London Drugs pharmacist can help you pick the right device, explain how to use it, and support you in managing hypertension with medications or lifestyle changes.
