A 24‑hour blood pressure monitor records your blood pressure throughout the day and night. It helps your doctor understand your usual blood pressure outside the clinic.
What to expect
- A cuff will be placed on your upper arm and connected to a small monitor worn on a belt or shoulder strap.
- The monitor inflates the cuff every 20–30 minutes during the day and every 30–60 minutes overnight.
- You can continue normal daily activities but should avoid vigorous exercise.
During the monitoring
- Keep your arm still and relaxed at your side when the cuff inflates.
- If the cuff slips, gently adjust it back into place.
- Do not get the monitor wet—avoid showers, baths, or swimming.
- Sleep as normally as possible; the cuff may inflate overnight.
Tips for an accurate reading
- Maintain your usual routine, diet, and medications unless advised otherwise.
- Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity.
- Keep the monitor on at all times until the test is finished.
After 24 hours
- Return the monitor to the clinic or collection point as instructed.
- Your doctor will review the results and discuss them with you at your next appointment.
When to contact the clinic
- If the cuff becomes painful, the monitor stops working, or you are unsure what to do, please phone the practice.