Main risks

• Inaccurate readings due to incorrect cuff placement, incorrect size, unstable posture, or talking or moving during measurement.
• Discomfort, tingling or minor bruising from overinflation or from repeating measurements without a break, especially on sensitive skin or in people taking anticoagulants.
• Skin irritation or cross-contamination if the cuff is shared without basic cleaning between uses.
• Device failure due to exposure to water, high humidity, dust or direct heat.
• Risks with batteries and adaptors: leakage, overheating or accidental ingestion of small batteries; trip hazard from the cable.
• Misinterpretation of results and self-adjusting medication.

Safe use

• Use a cuff of the correct size for your arm and place it on bare skin, with no tight clothing underneath.
• Sit and rest for a few minutes before measuring; keep your arm supported at heart level, and do not talk or move during the measurement.
• Stop the measurement if you feel severe pain, numbness or dizziness; remove or loosen the cuff.
• Avoid measuring immediately after vigorous exercise or consuming caffeine, alcohol or tobacco.
• Do not use the device with wet hands or near water; do not immerse it or spray it with liquids.
• Keep the tubing free of kinks or pinches and do not pull the cuff to disconnect it.
• Insert the batteries with the correct polarity; do not mix new and used batteries or different types. Keep batteries and small parts out of reach of children and pets.
• If using a mains adaptor, check that it is not damaged and that the plug is dry and in good condition.
• Avoid sources of vibration and strong electromagnetic fields during measurement so as not to affect the reading.
• Record your measurements, but do not change medication or care plans based on a single result. If you have repeatedly abnormal readings or symptoms, seek medical advice.

Storage and maintenance

• Store the blood pressure monitor in its case, in a dry, clean place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures; do not leave it in the car.
• Keep the cuff dry and clean; wipe it with a soft, slightly damp cloth and allow to air dry. Do not use solvents or bleach, and do not machine-wash it.
• Do not open or modify the device. If you notice impact damage, cracks, battery leakage or irregular inflation, stop using it and request inspection by the manufacturer’s service centre.
• Remove the batteries if you will not use the device for an extended period.
• Periodically check the condition of the cuff, tubing and connectors; replace worn or cracked components.
• Store the cuff without excessive folding and without weight on top to prevent damage to the internal tubing.

Restrictions on use

• Do not use the cuff on arms with open wounds, irritation, casts or bandages, or on the same limb with an intravenous catheter, arteriovenous fistula, lymphoedema or after a mastectomy; use the other arm.
• In people with arrhythmias, pregnancy or significant vascular disorders, some readings may be less reliable; follow the advice of a healthcare professional and use equipment suitable for those cases.
• It is not a continuous monitoring or emergency device. If you experience concerning symptoms or persistently extreme values, seek medical attention.
• Do not use in infants and young children except with specific cuffs and always under adult supervision.
• Do not use the blood pressure monitor while driving, walking or operating machinery.