Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitor (ABPM)

Ahead of the test you can eat and drink normally as well as take all of your usual medications.

As you will be unable to shower during the time you are wearing the ambulatory blood pressure monitor, we recommend you shower before your appointment.

It will be best to wear a two-piece outfit, with a loose sleeved top to allow for easier access to fit the ambulatory blood pressure monitor.

As well as the appointment to fit the device, after the 24-hour recording period has ended you will need to return to have the monitor removed.

The ambulatory blood pressure monitor is a small recording device that sits in a pouch that is fitted around your waist. It is attached to a tube leading to a cuff that will be wrapped around your upper arm.

Once the device is fitted you can engage in your regular daily activities. As mentioned before, you will not be able to shower during the time wearing the monitor.

The cuff on the ambulatory blood pressure monitor will automatically inflate every 30 minutes during the day and hourly overnight during the 24-hour period. You will need to remain as still as possible for the minute or so that the cuff takes to inflate, it will feel tight but should not be uncomfortable.

Fitting an ambulatory blood pressure monitor usually takes about 20 minutes.

Then there will be the 24-hour period of time wearing the device before another 20-minute appointment to have the monitor removed.

Wearing an ambulatory blood pressure monitor is a non-invasive procedure so once it is removed you can return immediately to your usual everyday activities, including having a shower.

Your ambulatory blood pressure monitor results will be reviewed and the report will be sent to your referring doctor. It is best to make an appointment with them to follow up on the results.

ABPM stands for Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring. This is a 24-hour test that measures your blood pressure at regular intervals while sitting and moving around. The results show if a blood pressure medication is working or needs to adjust your medicine.

For adults, the normal range for systolic is less than 120 mm Hg and the normal range for diastolic is less than 80 mm Hg.

High blood pressure is diagnosed when your blood pressure is more than 140/90 mm Hg.

The test is performed using a monitor that the patient wears on his or her arm for 24 hours. The patient is instructed not to eat during the 24-hour period. The monitor takes your blood pressure every 20 minutes during the 24 hours.