Cofton Medical Centre

Providing NHS Services
NHS

How to take your own blood pressure

Why we need you to take your blood pressure readings at home:

In order for us to help you to manage your blood pressure (BP), and any related medications you might be taking, we need to record your blood pressure result annually. 

The best way for us to do this is for you to take a set of readings at home for a week, and to then use these readings to calculate an average, which is then submitted to us.

Visit the link below for a step by step guide and video of how to take your own readings:

Blood Pressure UK

Home blood pressure monitoring form

Full Name DOB   
Home address Post code   
Telephone number (s) Email address 

Name of requesting clinician: _________________________

Average blood pressure reading:

Systolic (top) Diastolic (bottom) Resting pulse   

Understanding your blood pressure reading:

Blood pressure is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) and is given as two figures:

  • Systolic pressure (Top Reading) – the pressure when your heart pushes blood out
  • Diastolic pressure (Bottom Reading) – the pressure when your heart rests between beats

For  example, if your blood pressure is “140 over 90” or 140/90mmHg, it  means you have a systolic pressure of 140mmHg and a diastolic pressure  of 90mmHg.

As a general guide:

  • Normal blood pressure is considered to be between 90/60mmHg and 120/80mmHg
  • High blood pressure is considered to be 140/90mmHg or higher
  • Low blood pressure is considered to be 90/60mmHg or lower

When complete please return a paper copy to the surgery or send an electronic copy to [email protected]