
ABPM
ABPM stands for Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring. This is a test where a blood pressure cuff (called tensiometer) is installed around your arm to record your blood pressure blood over a 24-hour period.
Easy
It is an easy, painless test, not requiring any preparation.
You need an appointment
You must make an appointment for this test.
When you will go for your appointment, a tensiometer will be installed and secured around your for the next 24 next hours. A recording box will be attached to your waist with a belt. Thus it is important to dress accordingly.
The device is not waterproof – be careful
Once the monitor is installed, you are ready to leave. You can do all your regular activities except that you must avoid contact with water. You cannot have a bath or take a shower and of course, you cannot go in a swimming pool.
It will squeeze your arm … but don’t worry
Every fifteen minutes the device records your blood pressure, the same way it is done at the doctor’s office with a regular tensiometer. When the blood pressure is measured, the cuff inflates and may create a mild discomfort on your arm.
Even during the night
The device works even during the night. It should not be removed, because the measurement of your blood pressure is also very important during the night.
Why not test your own tensiometer at the same time?
I often recommend to my patients to use their own device and take a few recordings on the other arm during that day. This double measure gives us the ability to check the accuracy of the tensiometer you use at home.
Returning the device
After installation, the staff will tell you when you must bring the equipment back.
After reviewing the recording, the results will be sent to your physician
You may request a copy of the report for another doctor
You can ask that a copy of the result be sent to another doctor. You just have to give the name and address of this doctor to the staff.