ABP is a devise to measure diurnal blood pressure variation over a 24-hour period. Your blood pressure and heart rate is measured at a set interval while you carry on your normal activities at home or at work.

Indication for ABP Monitoring

The test is useful for patients with undiagnosed high blood pressure, borderline hypertension, young hypertension and those with poor blood pressure control. Blood pressure may occasionally be elevated in certain events such as stress, anxiety or when in pain. The raised blood pressure during these events should not be translated as true hypertension. ABP is useful in clarifying whether a patient is having hypertension.

Preparation before the test

You are advised to wear a loose fitting blouse or shirt before coming to Penang Adventist Hospital on the day of your appointment. No fasting is required.

How the test is done

ABP uses a well-proven oscillometric technique for blood pressure measurement that eliminates the need of cumbersome microphone and chest electrodes.

You will wear a blood pressure cuff on your arm connected to a lightweight device that is either strapped to your waist or around your shoulder.

You will feel a squeeze on your arm at a set regular interval. This means blood pressure is being recorded. Do not bend your arms when the device is reading your blood pressure.

It is important not to get the device wet. The technician or nurse will instruct you on handling the device. It can be easily removed for a shower and applied back on to continue with the recordings.

The next day you must see your cardiologist in the Heart & Vascular Centre to have your blood pressure data downloaded. Your cardiologist will discuss with you the outcome of your report.