Everything You Need to Know
Blood pressure, the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your blood vessels (arteries) is a critical health indicator. Regular monitoring can reveal insights into your heart’s health, helping to diagnose hypertension early and manage it effectively. At St John & Elizabeth Hospital, we’re committed to guiding you through the monitoring process with clarity and compassion, employing the latest technologies for precision and comfort.
If you’re concerned about your blood pressure or at risk for heart conditions, our specialists are here to assist. We tailor our monitoring techniques to suit your individual needs, providing a pathway to improved health and peace of mind.
Before Your Visit
Your journey to understanding and managing your blood pressure begins with a consultation at our facility. During this visit, we’ll review your medical history including your family history of heart conditions (i.e. if you have a direct relative that has heart problems), assess your current health status, and discuss the most appropriate monitoring methods for you. Whether it’s an in-office measurement or home monitoring, we ensure you’re fully informed and comfortable with your tailored plan.
Preparation for monitoring might include lifestyle adjustments or temporary changes to medication under your doctor’s guidance. Our team will provide all the necessary instructions to ensure accurate and reliable readings.
During Your Visit
Your comfort and well-being are our top priorities during every visit for blood pressure monitoring. The monitor will be fitted to record your blood pressure for 24-hours. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by our caring staff and settled in a calm environment for your check.
Step-by-step Process:
- Setup: The monitor will be set up to record your blood pressure in intervals (every 30 minutes during the day and once every hour during the night, unless states otherwise by your doctor).
- Procedure: You’ll be seated comfortably with your arms on the sides. A soft cuff will be placed around your upper arm and inflated to measure the pressure. There might be some discomfort/numbness or the hand while the BP cuff is inflating which will go away in a few seconds.
- You will be provided with a diary sheet to write symptoms you may experience during the time the monitor is attached.
- You will be given instruction on how to turn off the device when the recording time is up (typically 24 hours) and what to avoid when the monitor is inflating (i.e. keeping your arm still).
- After the test: You will turn the monitor off, remove the cuff from your arm and return it to the hospital along with the diary sheet for the results to be presented to your doctor.
- Consultation: Following the measurement, our healthcare professionals will discuss your results, offering advice and adjustments to your care plan as needed.
After Your Appointment
Understanding your blood pressure readings is the first step towards heart health. Based on your results, we may recommend lifestyle changes, medication, or further assessments. Our team is dedicated to providing ongoing support and guidance, ensuring you have the resources to manage your blood pressure effectively.
Ongoing Care and Support
Continued monitoring and adjustments to your health plan may be necessary to maintain or improve your blood pressure levels. Our specialists will work with you to schedule follow-up visits, refine your treatment strategy, and provide educational resources for at-home care.
How to pay for your treatment
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
Initial Consultation
Meet with our specialists to evaluate your needs and discuss your health history.
Monitoring Plan
Based on your consultation, we’ll propose the most effective monitoring approach.
Lifestyle Guidance
Receive personalised advice on lifestyle adjustments to support your treatment.
Follow-Up Care
Schedule follow-up appointments to track your progress and adjust your plan as needed.
Top Tips
Regular exercise can help lower and manage blood pressure.
Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low in sodium.
Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation or yoga.
Keep track of your blood pressure readings, whether at home or through scheduled visits to our clinic.