8 Practical Tips for Accurate Home Blood Pressure Monitor Use

6. Take multiple readings and average them

Take two to three consecutive readings, one to two minutes apart, then average the last two. The first reading can be higher as your body settles into the measurement, so averaging gives a steadier estimate. If a single reading is an obvious outlier compared with your usual pattern, take another and record all values. Some monitors automatically display an average if you program multiple readings; otherwise, calculate the mean manually. Keep a note of the arm used, since readings can differ slightly between arms. When you report numbers to a doctor, use the averaged value for that session rather than a single spike. Many health professionals suggest discarding the first measurement when it's much higher and using the next two. This routine reduces random error and gives a reading your clinician can trust for treatment decisions.