Self-monitoring blood pressure – how important is the correct monitoring schedule?

This study investigated if there is an optimal self-monitoring (SM) blood pressure (BP) schedule for patients with hypertension.

They found that SM-BP should be done for 3 days and can increase to 7 days if necessary.

Hypertension or high blood pressure (BP) is a serious medical condition. If uncontrolled, it can lead to serious events such as heart attack, stroke or death. BP control can be improved by self-monitoring (SM). SM-BP is done at home. It can be more effective at diagnosing hypertension. It also encourages patients to improve their health. This can subsequently improve adherence to treatment. 

There is some disagreement amongst doctors about the schedule for SM-BP. The SM-BP schedule refers to the number of BP measurements and the period of time. The guidelines vary between different countries and regions. It is unclear if there is an optimal schedule (OS) for SM-BP.

This study reviewed clinical reports on SM-BP. 37 studies were included in the analysis. SM-BP schedules were compared. The design of the studies was also compared. 10 studies were prognostic (PRG). These studies investigated if certain factors affect hypertension outcome. 27 studies investigated if SM-BP was reliable. 

In PRG studies, SM-BP was effective for 3 days. There was no convincing data on how many measurements should be taken per day. 

The authors concluded that SM-BP should be done for 3 days. If the blood pressure is very close to the treatment threshold, it can be increased to 7 days.

The data in the studies was variable. Further studies are needed for more clear evidence.

If you have any concerns regarding hypertension and BP monitoring, please discuss this with your physician.