What Should Patients Know About Self Blood Pressure Measurement? A Review Article

Abstract

Many people measure their blood pressure (BP) outside doctors ' of fi ces with a common goal of concerning their health status. Self-BP monitoring devices are widely accessible as health care products or available in different community institutes. Patients often seek their doctors ' advice on their BP readings in our daily practice. Current international guidelines recommend that correct self-BP measurement with validated devices can enhance patients ' self-management and drug compliance, improving overall BP control. While most of the clinicians are supportive of their patients ’ efforts, they are also concerned about the validity and reliability of the out-of-of fi ce BP readings. How can we effectively educate patients to get meaningful BP readings, which may improve their overall BP control? This article will review the current best evidence on patient self-BP monitoring.