24-Hour Blood Pressure Monitoring
To keep a close eye on your blood pressure and catch any changes that might go unnoticed, consider booking a 24-hour blood pressure monitoring test with your doctor. This test can give you peace of mind and help ensure your heart is staying healthy day and night.
What is 24-Hour Blood Pressure Monitoring?
24-Hour Blood Pressure Monitoring, or Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring, is a simple test that keeps an eye on your blood pressure as you go about your day and night. It involves wearing a compact blood pressure machine, attached to a belt around your waist, with a cuff on your upper arm. This little device shouldn't get in the way of your daily activities, and you can even sleep with it on.
How Does the Test Work?
During the test, a cuff will be fitted around your arm and a monitoring device will be attached to a belt around your waist. This device will automatically measure your blood pressure every 30-60 minutes by inflating the cuff and then deflating it to record the reading. It's important to wear the device for the full 24 hours, including overnight, to make sure your nighttime readings are taken as well.
Why is Monitoring Your Blood Pressure Important?
24-hour blood pressure monitoring can help detect early signs of trouble with your blood pressure. Your doctor might suggest this test for a few reasons:
-
To confirm if you have high blood pressure and monitor its levels over a full day.
-
To check if your blood pressure is different outside the doctor's office, a phenomenon known as the "white coat effect."
-
To observe how your blood pressure varies throughout the day.
-
To assess the effectiveness of your medication in controlling your blood pressure all day and night.
-
To determine if your blood pressure stays high at night, which might require a change in your medication.
During the Test: Do's and Don'ts
-
Continue with your usual activities.
-
Avoid swimming, bathing, or showering with the device on.
-
Steer clear of intense physical activities while the cuff is inflating.
-
Avoid using creams or lotions on the arm where the cuff is placed, as this may affect the readings.
-
Keep the monitoring device dry and protected from any potential damage.
-
After 24 hours, remove the device yourself or return to us for removal.
-
If worn on a Friday, remove it after 24 hours on Saturday and return it on Monday.
Tips for a Smooth Test
-
Check that the tube connecting the machine to the cuff is straight and not bent.
-
When you hear the machine beep, signalling it's time for a reading, take a moment to relax, keep your arm still, and sit down if you can.
-
Keep a diary of what you do, when you sleep, and when you wake up during the test.
-
If you find the test bothersome or uncomfortable, tell your doctor, as it could impact your results.
​Your doctor will receive a report and discuss the results with you at your next appointment.
-
Can I request a specific doctor for my child’s visits?Yes, absolutely. We strive to maintain continuity of care and understand the importance of building a trusting relationship with a specific doctor. There may be times when your preferred doctor is not available and in such cases, an appointment with another doctor may be required.
-
How can I prepare my child for their visits to the doctor?Preparing your child for their doctor's visit can help if they are feeling nervous. Talk to your child about what to expect and assure them that the doctor is there to help keep them healthy. Bringing a favourite toy or book can also provide them comfort. If your children are older, explaining the importance of health checks might help them understand the process better.
-
What should I bring to my child’s health check-up?For each visit, please bring your child’s health book or any records of previous visits and vaccinatons. It’s also helpful to bring a list of questions or concerns you might have, as well as a summary of your child's recent health history, such as symptoms, medications, dietary habits, or behavioral changes.
-
How often should I bring my child in for routine checks and vaccinations?Routine checks and vaccinations are important for monitoring your child's health and development. Generally, appointments are scheduled according to the National Immunisation Program guidelines. However, your doctor may recommend additional visits if needed. You can discuss any aspects of your child's specific health needs with your doctor.
-
What should I do if my child becomes ill outside of normal clinic hours?If your child becomes unwell outside of the regular opening hours and you feel it is an emergency, please dial 000. For less urgent needs, consider contacting the WCH Child and Adolescent Virtual Urgent Care Service or visiting an after-hours clinic.
