 
 HELP WITH THE BLOOD PRESSURE MONITOR
This blood pressure monitor will record your blood pressure automatically every 30 minutes (half hour).
You wear it attached to a belt or pants, or in your pocket. It is connected to a blood pressure cuff -- just like the ones you are probably used to whenever you get your blood pressure taken. When the internal timer goes off, it will try to get a reading. It may happen rather suddenly, so don't be startled. The wntire process takes just a few seconds each time. You will be asked to wear it for 1 full day (24 hours).
If you have any questions, see the answers below. If you still have questions, you may call the study coordinator at (215) 615-1756 or email them for more information.
Q: How do I put it on?
A: Don't worry about that. We put it on for you when you come in for your visit. You need to be careful not to let it come off, though. If it comes off, please contact us immediately.
Q: Can it get wet?
A: No. While you wear this monitor, please do not shower or swim. You can do those things after the 24 hour monitoring period.
Q: How does it work?
A: It works just like any other automatic blood pressure machine that you may have seen in drug stores or doctor's offices. The only difference is that it is portable and it records the data so that we can look at it later. It should feel no different from any other time you have gotten your blood pressure taken.
Q: Can I sleep with it?
Yes, you can fall asleep with it on -- in fact, that's an important part of the study and part of why we need a complete 24 hours of recording. You should note that it often wakes people up when it takes a reading, though. So be prepared for a little bit of a restless night.
Q: Does it hurt?
A: It should feel exactly like any other blood pressure reading you have experienced. Some people find them uncomfortable, but most people do not experience much discomfort.
Q: What should I do when it is taking a reading?
A: Whatever you are doing, you should stop. If you keep moving, the device may not be able to get an accurate reading.
Q: What happens when the device does not get an accurate reading?
A: It will automatically try again 2 minutes later. Take that time to get to a spot where you can stop moving while the device takes a reading.
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University of Arizona