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A physician might recommend that patients with chronic high blood pressure or other cardiac condition purchase a blood pressure kit, or sphygmomanometer, for home testing.
Typical costs: |
- There are various types of blood pressure monitor kits, ranging in price from $18.95 to more than $100 according to the Mayo Clinic[1] . More traditional blood pressure monitoring kits, such as those that require the use of a stethoscope, are the least expensive. Automatic kits, which often have a digital display and can sometimes record several days of readings, cost more. Edmund's Scientifics[2] markets a manual blood pressure kit that costs just $15-$30. Drugstore.com sells a high quality automatic kit for $90-$119.
- Most blood pressure kits come with an average adult-sized cuff. Blood pressure readings will be most accurate if the patient has a blood pressure cuff that fits his or her arm, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. This is particularly relevant when taking the blood pressure of a child or an individual with a large arm circumference. Blood pressure cuffs of various sizes cost between $10 and $25.
- Insurance does not typically cover blood pressure monitoring kits, but be sure to contact your insurance company with questions about coverage options. This type of purchase often qualifies for reimbursement through a patient's flexible spending account or health savings account.
Related articles: Heart Rate Monitor, Personal Trainer, Defibrillator
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What should be included: |
- Most blood pressure kits come with an arm cuff and a system that registers the blood pressure reading. This system could be a simple gauge, as with a manual blood pressure kit, or a machine with a digital display, as with an automatic blood pressure kit. Manual kits should also come with a stethoscope.
- Look for a kit with at least a five-year warranty.
Additional costs: |
- An automatic blood pressure kit requires batteries. These will need to be replaced as needed. Costs will vary depending upon the type and amount of batteries required.
- Blood pressure kits should be checked for accuracy on a yearly basis or whenever the device is dropped or bumped, according to the American Heart Association[3] . Accuracy can be checked by comparing the readings on a home machine with one used in a physician's office or clinic. If the readings differ, calibration is necessary.
- Calibration must be done through the company. It may be free, depending upon the warranty.
Shopping for a blood pressure monitor: |
- Blood pressure kits are available at most pharmacies and through online medical equipment retailers. Patients do not need a prescription to purchase a blood pressure monitor, though it may be helpful to ask a physician to recommend a particular kit.
- According to the Mayo Clinic[4] patients should make sure their kit has been validated prior to purchase. Patients can find out if a kit has been validated through the manufacturer or a physician's office. Validation means that the kit has been tested for accuracy.
- Deciding which type of blood pressure kit to purchase can be challenging. Manual blood pressure monitors are the most accurate and least expensive type of kit available, according to the Analytical Spectroscopy Research Group. However, these devices require that the individual have good hearing and vision. Reading this type of monitor is simple, but may require practice. Patients should ask themselves if they would feel comfortable reading the gauge and listening to their heartbeat through the stethoscope. The American Heart Association[5] offers directions for obtaining an accurate reading using a manual monitor.
- An automatic blood pressure kit is more expensive, but relatively easy to use. There are many different types available. Talk to a doctor or pharmacist regarding which features might be best for the individual's medical condition.
- According to the American Academy of Family Physicians a cuff should fit snugly, but the patient should be able to slip one finger inside the cuff when it is deflated. Each cuff should provide size guidelines in the information packet or on the packaging. Ask a pharmacist or contact a physician's office if it's difficult to find an appropriately-sized cuff.
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Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
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External Resources: |
- www.mayoclinic.com/health/high-blood-pressure/HI00016/NSECTIONGROUP=2/
- www.scientificsonline.com/economy-manual-blood-pressure-kit.html
- www.heart.org
- www.mayoclinic.com/health/high-blood-pressure/HI00016/NSECTIONGROUP=2/
- www.heart.org
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