St. Vincent’s University Hospital
24 Hour Blood Pressure Monitoring Service
Information Leaflet
What is 24 Hour Blood Pressure Monitoring?
This is when your blood pressure is measured over 24 hours as you move around, living your normal life. The
monitor takes blood pressure readings every 30 minutes throughout the day and night, and stores all your
readings.
How is my blood pressure measured?
It is similar to a blood pressure measurement that your doctor would do: an electronic monitor takes your
blood pressure by inflating a cuff around your upper arm and then slowly releasing the pressure. A small
blood pressure monitor is attached to a shoulder strap or a belt around your waist and connected to a cuff
around your upper arm. It will not affect your normal daily life and you can even sleep with it on.
Why do I need this investigation?
Your GP or Hospital Consultant has requested that you have this test done, to find out if your blood pressure
is high or, if you are taking blood pressure tablets, to see if they are working properly.
How is it performed?
It is similar to a blood pressure measurement that your doctor would do: an electronic monitor takes your
blood pressure by inflating a cuff around your upper arm and then slowly releasing the pressure.
Your appointment letter gives you a time and date to attend for this test. A nurse or health professional will fit
one of these machines for you at that time. You will have to come back the next day at around the same
time to have it removed
What arm does the cuff go on?
The machine can be put on either arm.
cuff
monitor
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What clothes should I wear for the appointment?
Your clothing should also be loose to allow the cuff to inflate and deflate properly:
Vest top or t-shirt
Loose shirt, blouse or T-shirt, ideally short-sleeved or no sleeves
Loose fitting top clothing: jumper, cardigan or jacket.
How will I know when it is taking a reading?
During the day, the monitor will give two beeps before it takes a reading. To avoid disturbing your sleep, it will
not bleep at night.
What do I do when it is taking a reading?
Once you hear the two beeps and/or feel the cuff inflating on your arm:
1. Stop whatever you are doing.
2. Sit down (if possible) or stand still.
3. Keep your arm still by your side.
4. Do not talk or cross your legs.
The cuff will tighten on your arm, stay tight for a few seconds and then slowly loosen. It will give one beep,
and then you can move again.
Do I have to keep the monitor on at night?
Yes. This will help us see what your blood pressure readings are when you are asleep.
Do I need to do anything different because I’m being tested?
No. Because the test is being carried out to find out what your normal daily blood pressure is, it is important to
carry on with your normal routine.
What can I not do while I am wearing this monitor?
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The equipment must be kept dry i.e. no bath or shower for these 24 hours.
You should not take the cuff off until you come back for your appointment the next day.
Can I drive while I am wearing this monitor?
Yes, but safety comes first when driving. It is better not to drive for long periods while wearing the monitor.
If you have any further questions, please phone 01 221 4958 (direct line) between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Monday
to Friday.
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