Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is a digital blood pressure monitor?
CITIZEN Healthcare Digital Blood Pressure Monitors are designed to meet the exacting standards set by the various regulatory bodies that govern all blood pressure monitors including those found in your physician’s office. In order to ensure the accuracy of your measurements, it is strongly suggested to read the complete guidebook and other support materials and follow the recommended operating conditions for the unit including the suitable arm/wrist circumference range for the cuff.
Are manual inflate digital blood pressure monitors as accurate as automatic inflate monitors?
Yes. Both styles comply with the same stringent accuracy standards. The only difference is the way the unit is inflated.
How often and when should I measure my blood pressure?
It is recommended that you consult with your health care professional for the time and frequency that is best suited for you. It is important to take your readings at similar times and conditions when monitoring on a daily basis. This will allow for reliable comparisons of your readings.
Why are my home readings different from my doctor’s readings?
Many factors affect blood pressure. The anxiousness of a doctor’s visit may cause the common condition referred to as “White Coat Syndrome”, which typically produces a higher than “normal” blood pressure reading. Other factors, including the time of day, can influence blood pressure reading results.
How long should I wait between measurements?
It is important to wait a minimum of 15 minutes between readings. The wait time may vary depending on individual physiological characteristics.
Why is there more variation in my diastolic pressure?
Diastolic pressure is detected by the last “beat” in the cardiac cycle. This beat is sometimes difficult to detect with a stethoscope and may be subject to the practitioner’s interpretation. Your blood pressure monitor detects the last beat electronically for a more consistent, reliable diastolic reading.
What happens if I do not place the cuff at heart level?
If the cuff is not at heart level, readings will be affected producing inaccurate measurements.
Does age affect blood pressure?
Many factors such as age, genetics, sex, altitude, physical activity, muscular development, certain medications or even the time of day can influence blood pressure.
How does my blood pressure monitor detect the readings?
The method of measurement that a monitor uses is called the oscillometric method. The monitor detects your blood’s movement through the artery in your arm/wrist and converts the movements into a digital reading. The oscillometric method does not require a stethoscope, making the monitor easy to use.
Will I get the same reading each time I use my blood pres-sure monitor?
Blood pressure is influenced by many factors and can change from moment to moment. Normally, blood pressure is lowest during sleeping periods and rises during the day.
How do I know if my device is still accurate?
Your blood pressure monitor performs a self diagnosis when the unit is powered on. If the unit has been dropped or abused in any way, it is recommended that you contact our CITIZEN Healthcare support line at 800-421-6516.
Which arm/wrist monitor should I use to take my blood pressure?
It is suggested to consult with your health care professional to determine which arm/wrist monitor is best for you to use. Your unit and accompanying detailed instruction guidebook are designed for left arm/wrist use. If you are unable to or should not use your left arm/wrist, please modify the instructions for right arm/wrist use. The same arm/wrist should be used for all readings to ensure reliable comparisons.
What should I do if my arm circumference is outside of the stated range?
The prescribed range for your blood pressure monitor is included on the specifications page of your instruction guidebook. Unit accuracy can be affected if an improperly sized cuff is used. If your arm circumference does not meet the size stated in the specifications, please consult your dealer for cuff alternatives.
What should I do if my wrist circumference is outside of the stated range?
(For wrist cuff models only) The prescribed range for your blood pressure monitor is included on the specifications page of your instruction guidebook. Unit accuracy can be affected if an improperly sized cuff is used. Due to the design of wrist monitors, the cuff is an integral part of the unit and cannot be adapted to other wrist sizes. It is suggested that you consider an arm cuff unit as an alternative for your blood pressure monitoring.
What do the error messages mean?
Each monitor has individual error messages that are unit specific. Please consult your instruction guidebook for complete details.
Can I use any AC adapter with my unit?
Only selected units offer the capability of an AC adapter. If your unit has an AC adapter feature, an adapter specifically designed for this unit is recommended. Use of an adapter other than the one specifically designed for your unit may cause permanent damage to your monitor and void your warranty.
Can I use rechargeable batteries?
No, your unit was designed and tested using alkaline batteries.
Can I use my blood pressure monitor while exercising?
The oscillometric method of blood pressure monitoring requires quiet, stable conditions. Movement, vibrations or other activity will interfere with the reading and likely cause an error or inaccurate reading. You should always rest a minimum of 15 minutes prior to taking a reading.
Can I use my blood pressure monitor in moving vehicles?
Movement, vibrations or other activity will interfere with the reading and likely cause an error or inaccurate reading. You should always rest a minimum of 15 minutes prior to taking a reading.
Is my blood pressure monitor waterproof?
Monitors are not waterproof. Refer to detailed guidebook for care and maintenance instructions. It is strongly recommended that the unit be stored and operated within the conditions expressed in the guidebook.
What is the warranty on CITIZEN home blood pressure monitors?
Warranty periods on the monitor itself (not including cuff) are 5 years. Cuffs or other accessories are 1 year. Please check the instruction manual for your specific unit.
Are CITIZEN blood pressure monitors FDA an approved?
CITIZEN home blood pressure monitors are FDA approved and also ISO 13485:2003 approved.
I misplaced my instruction manual. How can I get a new one?
Electronic versions of the instruction manuals can be found on the User Manual Downloads page of the CITIZEN Healthcare Support Center.
How do I get my monitor repaired?
You need to contact our consumer support line at (800) 421-6516. The representative will discuss the situation with you, and help determine if you need to send it in. You can also contact us by completing and submitting a Contact Healthcare Support Form through our web site.
Where do I purchase accessories for my CITIZEN blood pressure monitor?
If you know the accessory you need or want, or if you are unsure of what accessories you may need, please contact our CITIZEN Healthcare support line at (800) 421-6516 and they can assist you.