Accurate home blood
pressure measurements
with the WatchBP home A.
Instruction Manual
EN
3
Microlife WatchBP Home A is the world’s rst digital blood pressure measurement device that
strictly follows European Society of Hypertension (ESH)
1, 2
and American Heart Association (AHA)
recommendations for home blood pressure measurement. Using the WatchBP Home A device helps you
collect accurate home blood pressure measurements your doctor can trust. This WatchBP Home A device
has been clinically validated according to the ESH protocol 3.
1
O’Brien E, Asmar R, Beilin L, Imai Y, et al. European Society of Hypertension recommendations for conventional, ambulatory and home blood pressure
measurement. European Society of Hypertension Working Group on Blood Pressure Monitoring. J Hypertens 2003;21:821-848.
2
Stergiou GS, et al. A tool for reliable self-home blood pressure monitoring designed according to the European Society of Hypertension
recommendations: The Microlife WatchBP Home monitor. Blood press Monit. 2007;12:127-131.
3
Stergiou GS, Giovas PP, Gkinos CP, Patouras JD. Validation of the Microlife WatchBP Home device for self home blood pressure measurement according
to The International Protocol. Blood Press Monit. 2007;12(3):185-188.
Pull out the protective strip from the battery
compartment.
1) Set the year – Upon removing the protective strip or
installing new batteries, the Year number ashes in
the display. Use the M Button to select the Year. Press
the ON/OFF Button to conrm your selection.
8
Press M Button to make selection
Press ON/OFF Button to conrm
2) Set the month – Press the M Button to set the Month.
Press the ON/OFF Button to conrm.
3) Set the day – Press the M Button to set the Day.
Press the ON/OFF Button to conrm.
4) Set the time – Once you have set the Hour and
Minutes and pressed the ON/OFF Button, the date and
time are set, and the current time is displayed.
5) If you want to change the date and time, take out one
battery from the battery compartment briey and
put it back. The Year number will ash. Complete the
process as described above.
Selecting the correct cuff
The WatchBP Home A device is available with different
cuff sizes. If the cuff provided with the device is an
unsuitable size , please consult your doctor.
please use only Microlife cuffs!
*
M (Medium size)
22 - 32 cm (8.7 - 12.6 inches)
M is the correct size for most people.
L (Large size)
32 - 42 cm (12.6 - 16.5 inches)
9
EN
USUAL
Taking measurements using WatchBP Home A
Prior to each measurement, use the Mode Switch on the
right side of the device to select the proper measurement
mode. The two options include:
«DIAG.» (Diagnostic) or «USUAL» (Usual) mode.
DIAG.
10
USUAL
«DIAG.» Mode
The «DIAG.» mode should be selected as requested
by your doctor when blood pressure is measured in
accordance with the measurement guidelines of the
European Society of Hypertension (ESH).
DIAG.
No measurements on non-work days
In «DIAG.» mode, blood pressure measurements are
taken on 7 consecutive working days (or normal
week days). No readings should be taken on «non-working» days (or particularly relaxing days)
in this mode!
Two sets of measurements per day
ESH guidelines recommend one double measurement
taken in the morning between 06:00 - 09:00 and one in
the evening between 18:00 - 21:00. Always perform
measurements before taking your medication,
unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Jan
JAN
30
7
working
days
X1
06:00 - 09:00
X1
18:00 - 21:00
ESH Guidelines
11
EN
Taking measurements using WatchBP Home A (cont.)
Extended measurement period
WatchBP Home A has an extended measurement period
and allows morning measurements between 04:00 12:00 and evening measurements between 18:00 - 24:00.
X1
04:00 - 12:00
X1
18:00 - 24:00
Extended Time
Outside these times, measurements cannot be
taken and the symbol on the right will be displayed
on the screen.
12
Evaluation
After measurements have been carried out for a total
of 7 working days, take the device to your doctor for
evaluation of your home blood pressure data.
When measurements
have been carried out
for the full 7 days, the
doctor symbol will
ash on the screen.
USUAL
«USUAL» Mode
The «USUAL» mode is selected for regular blood
pressure measurement with Ab detection. In «USUAL»
mode, three consecutive measurements are taken
automatically at 15 second intervals. The results are
averaged and displayed. The averaged readings are
automatically stored for later evaluation by your doctor.
USUAL
3
15 sec.
Anytime
15 sec.
12
15 sec.
250 measurements safely stored
The WatchBP Home A device can store up to 250
averaged measurement readings in «USUAL» mode.
250
Measurements
When memory is full, each new reading will automatically
*
overwrite the earliest measurement.
To review the last three individual measurements, press
*
and hold the M button until a “1” is displayed on the screen.
The values of the last three individual measurements are
displayed sequentially.
13
EN
Eight steps for measure blood pressure properly
Step 1
Avoid taking measurements directly after eating,
drinking or smoking. Allow at least one hour between
these activities and measurement of your blood pressure.
1 Hour Before
14
Step 2
Prepare a chair and table for the measurement. The
chair should have a vertical back-rest and the table
should allow your upper arm to rest at the same height
as your heart.
Step 3
Remove all clothing covering or constricting the arm to
be measured. Apply the cuff. Make sure the lower edge
of the cuff is exactly 2–3cm from the inner fold of your
arm. The tube connecting the cuff to the device should
be placed on the inside of the arm. (Additional visual instruction can be found on the cuff)
Step 4
Sit down and relax for at least ve minutes prior to the
measurement.
15
EN
SYS
mmHg
mmHg
/min
USUAL
DIAG.
NOCTURNAL
DIA
PUL
Eight steps for measure blood pressure properly (cont.)
Step 5
Sit upright and lean comfortably against the chair’s
backrest. Press the start button. The device will
initiate a 60-second countdown in «DIAG.» mode or a
15-second countdown in «USUAL» mode. During the
measurement do not move, cross your legs, or tense
your arm muscles. Breath normally and do not talk.
16
Step 6 (in «DIAG.» mode)
One measurement cycle includes two measurements.
Once the rst measurement is complete, continue to
relax as you wait for the second measurement. The
second measurement will start after 60-seconds. During
this time avoid any movement.
1 2
60 sec.
Step 7 (in «DIAG.» mode)
Once the two readings are complete, measurement
data is automatically stored for future reference by your
doctor. If an error displays after the readings, please
repeat the rst six steps once again.
Automatically stored
Step 8 (in «DIAG.» mode)
When seven days of measurements have been collected,
the Doctor Symbol will ash on the display. Do not forget
to take your WatchBP Home A device with you on your
next visit to the doctor. (Note: the doctor symbol is only displayed for measurements in «DIAG.» Mode.)
17
EN
Special Function
Atrial brillation detection
This device is designed to screen for atrial brillation
during blood pressure measurements both in
«USUAL» Mode and «DIAG.» Mode. If atrial
brillation is detected during all readings of the triple
measurements in usual mode or all four readings
of one day in diagnostic mode, the Ab icon
displayed. If the Ab icon is displayed after a blood
pressure measurement follow the instructions on page
21.
Joseph Wiesel, et al. Detection of Atrial Fibrillation Using a
*
Modied Microlife Blood Pressure Monitor.
American Journal of Hypertension 2009; 22, 8, 848–852.
18
is
IAD
Atrial brillation, a major cause of stroke can be detected by
*
this device. However, not all risk factors for stroke, including
atrial utter, may be detected by this device.
This device may not detect atrial brillation in people with
*
pacemakers or debrillators. People with pacemakers or
debrillators should therefore not use this device to detect
atrial brillation.
About Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial brillation is a common heart rhythm problem
and a common cause of major strokes. It affects more
than 2 million people in North America. It is more
common with older age and found in 10% of people
over 80 years old. About 20% of all strokes are caused
by atrial brillation. The elderly, or those with high blood
pressure, diabetes or heart disease are more likely to get
a stroke if they have atrial brillation.
Atrial brillation is a rhythm problem that can last from
a few minutes, to days or weeks and even years. Atrial
brillation can lead to the formation of blood clots in the
upper chambers of the heart (the atria). These clots can
break off and ow to the brain causing stroke. The use
of blood thinners, such as warfarin , can lower the risk of
stroke in patients with atrial brillation.
A doctor can conrm the presence of atrial
brillation by using an EKG. Atrial brillation can
sometimes come and go. So a doctor may not see it
on regularly scheduled visits.
One sign of atrial brillation is palpitations. But,
many people don’t feel anything. These people can
still get a stroke and should be checked for atrial
brillation regularly. Finding atrial brillation earlier
and followed by treatment can lower the chances of
getting a stroke.
19
EN
Atrial Fibrillation Detector
The WatchBP home can screen for atrial brillation
during blood pressure measurement.
Some people may have atrial brillation occasionally
that lasts longer than a day. In this situation the WatchBP
Home A allows frequent screening on multiple days for
optimal diagnosis of atrial brillation.
Sometimes the device might falsely detect atrial
brillation which can have two causes:
1) The arm has moved during blood pressure
measurement. For this reason it is of essential
importance that the arm is kept still during the
measurement.
2) Some other arrhythmia (irregular heart beat) than
atrial brillation might be present. In such a case it is
still recommended to pay a visit to the doctor.
20
For people with pacemakers or debrillators it is not
recommended to use the WatchBP Home A.
Measurement
If atrial brillation is detected during all readings of
the triple measurements in «USUAL» Mode or all
four readings of one day in «DIAG.» Mode then atrial
brillation is most likely present.
Since atrial brillation sometimes lasts for only a
few minutes. It is recommended to perform another
measurement session one hour later. If this also shows
the presence of atrial brillation then a doctor should
be seen. It is recommended to take the device when
visiting the doctor.
Atrial brillation detection instructions
• Use this device regularly, once per week, or once per
month to screen for atrial brillation.
• If atrial brillation is detected during all readings of the
triple measurements, another measurement session
should be done approximately one hour later.
• If this last reading shows atrial brillation contact your
doctor.
• Take this device with you when you see the doctor.
Information for the doctor
This device is designed to detect atrial brillation and
false negative readings are very rare. Though it is
programmed to specically detect atrial brillation,
frequent premature beats, marked sinus arrhythmia
or other rhythm abnormalities might cause false
positive readings. If atrial brillation is detected by
the device at home, we suggest another reading done
in the doctor’s ofce. If the atrial brillation icon is
not displayed then the previous abnormal readings
may have been due to transient atrial brillation.
If the atrial brillation icon is displayed then EKG
performance is suggested for determining the exact
rhythm abnormality.
21
EN
Viewing, deleting and transferring measurements
Viewing measurements
1) Use the Mode switch to rst select the type of
measurements you wish to view.
DIAG.
2) Then press the M Button.
22
USUAL
In «DIAG.» Mode
1) When the M Button is pressed, it briey displays the
total number of measurements stored, e.g. N=20 and
then switches to the average of all readings.
«A» is displayed when
*
the number shown is
the average of all data.
«- -» will display when the
*
number of measurements
is less than 12.
2) Press the M Button again to display the average of all
morning data. Press the M Button once again to show
the average of all evening data.
3) Press the M Button repeatedly to review all the
individual readings one by one.
4) The daily average is displayed after the individual
readings of the day.
In «USUAL» Mode
1) When the M Button is pressed, the number of readings
with Ab detected is displayed.
2) Press M Button again, the number of total readings
stored, e.g. N=63, is displayed; followed immediately
by the average of all measurements stored in memory.
3) All individual readings can be viewed by repeatedly
pressing the M Button.
Individual
Reading
23
EN
Viewing, deleting and transferring measurements (cont.)
USUAL
Deleting measurements
Data from «DIAG.» and «USUAL» can be deleted
independent of each other.
DIAG.
24
USUAL
Before deleting data, be sure to ask your doctor if the
*
measurement data is still required. Only delete the stored
measurements when you are sure that you no longer need
the data.
1) Use the Mode switch to select the mode of
measurements you want to delete.
3) Release the M Button and press it once more while the
delete symbol ashes. The deleting is conrmed by the
beep sound.
DIAG.
2) Press the M Button and hold it for 7 seconds until
the delete symbol ashes.
Press and hold for 7 seconds...
USUAL
Only measurements in the selected mode will be deleted.
*
25
EN
Viewing, deleting and transferring measurements (cont.)
Transferring measurements
Installation of the software program
1) Put the CD in the CD-ROM drive of your computer.
Alternatively click on «
2) Follow the instructions provided in the installation
window on the computer screen.
3) When the installation is nished, be sure to restart the
computer before using the program.
WatchBP Analyzer Home A
Version 1.0.2.7
Install CD
System Requirements: 550MHz CPU. 256MB Memory, 1024x768
pixel resolution, 256 color, CD-ROM drive, 1 free USB port, 40MB
free hard disk space, Microsoft Windows XP / Vista.
1) Start the software program and connect the device to
the computer using the cable supplied.
2) A successful connection is displayed by «Connected»
on the computer screen.
3) Enter name, identity number (if required), and date of
birth to create a new record.
Software commands
Refer to the software user manual for detailed information and instructions.
Transfer «DIAG.» mode dataClick «Download»
Corresponding valueYou can remove the check mark and the corresponding value
will not be used to calculate the average.
Store dataClick «Save», the le name is formed automatically from the
patient’s identity number and the sufx «Dmode.xls».
View the dataClick «Patient Files»
Store the «USUAL» mode dataClick «Download Usual Mode Data», the le name is formed
automatically from the patient’s identity number and the sufx
«Umode.xls».
Print the data sheetClick «Print»
Delete the memoriesClick «Clear Memory»
Close the programClick «Exit»
Please store the data before using «Clear Memory» or «Exit».
*
27
EN
Batteries and power adaptor
Battery indicator
When the batteries have ¼ power supply left, the
Battery Symbol will ash each time the device is
switched on.
28
Replacing low batteries
When the batteries need to be replaced, the
Battery Symbol will ash each time the device is
switched on.
1) Open the battery compartment at the back of
the device.
2) Replace the batteries – ensure correct polarity as
shown by the symbols in the compartment.
Use 4 new, long-life 1.5V, size AA batteries.
*
Do not use batteries beyond their date of expiry.
*
Remove batteries, if the device will not be used for a
*
prolonged period.
Using a power adaptor
The WatchBP Home A device can also be operated using a
Microlife power adaptor (DC 6V, 600mA).
Only use Microlife branded power adaptors.
*
1) Plug the adaptor cable into the Power Plug in the
WatchBP Home A device.
2) Plug the adaptor plug into the wall socket. When
the power adaptor is connected, no battery power is
consumed.
SYS
mmHg
DIA
mmHg
PUL
/min
29
EN
Safety, care, accuracy test and disposal
Safety and protection
This device may be used only for the purpose described
in this booklet. The device comprises of sensitive
components and must be treated with caution. The
manufacturer cannot be held liable for damage caused
by incorrect application.
• Ensure that children do not use the device unsupervised;
some parts are small enough to be swallowed.
• Only activate the pump when cuff is installed.
• Do not use the device if you think it is damaged or if
anything appears unusual.
• Read the further safety instructions in the individual
sections of the instruction manual.
• Do not connect the device to a computer
until prompted to do so by the computer software.
30
Observe the storage and operating conditions described
in the “Technical specications” section of this manual.
Protect the device from water and moisture
Protect the device from direct sunlight
Protect the device from extreme heat and cold
Avoid proximity to electromagnetic elds, such as
those produced by mobile phones
Never open device
Protect device from impact and drops
Device care
Clean the device with a soft, dry cloth.
Cuff care
DO NOT wash the cuff. DO NOT iron the cuff cover.
Do not wash the cuff!
Do not iron the cuff!
Accuracy test
We recommend the WatchBP Home A device be tested
for accuracy every 2 years or after mechanical impact
(e.g. being dropped). Please contact Microlife to
arrange for an accuracy test.
Disposal
Batteries and electronic instruments must be disposed of
in accordance with the locally applicable regulations, and
not as domestic waste.
31
EN
Error messages
If an error occurs during measurement, the
measurement is interrupted and an error message
«Er» is displayed.
Please consult microlife, if
•
this or any other problem
occurs repeatedly.
If you think the results are
•
unusual, please read through
the information in this
instruction manual carefully.
32
ErrorDescriptionPotential cause and
remedy
«Er 1»Signal too
weak
«Er 2»Error signalDuring the measurement,
The pulse signals on the cuff
are too weak. Re-position
the cuff and repeat the
measurement.
error signals were detected
by the cuff, caused for
instance by movement or
muscle tension. Repeat the
measurement, keeping
your arm still.
«Er 3»No pressure
in the cuff
«Er 5»Abnormal
result
An adequate pressure
cannot be generated in
the cuff. A leak may have
occurred. Replace the
batteries if necessary.
Repeat the measurement.
The measuring signals are
inaccurate and no result
can therefore be displayed.
Read through the checklist
for performing reliable
measurements and then
repeat the measurement.
«HI»Pulse or cuff
pressure too
high
«LO»Pulse too
low
The pressure in the cuff
is too high (over 300
mmHg) OR the pulse is
too high (over 200 beats
per minute). Relax for 5
minutes and repeat the
measurement.
The pulse is too low (less
than 40 beats per minute).
Repeat the measurement.
33
EN
Important facts about blood pressure and home measurements
diastolic (lower) value, are always measured.
The pulse rate is the number of times the heart beats
•
in a minute.
Permanent high blood pressure can damage your
•
health and therefore must be treated!
Always discuss your home blood pressure
•
measurement data with your doctor and tell him/her
if you have noticed anything unusual or feel unsure.
Never rely on single blood pressure readings.
There are many causes of excessively high blood
•
Blood pressure is the pressure of the blood owing in
•
the arteries generated by the pumping of the heart.
Two data readings, the systolic (upper) value and the
34
pressure. Your doctor will explain them in more detail
and offer treatment when appropriate.
Blood pressure is subject to wide uctuations as the
•
day progresses, and can be impacted by emotions,
physical exertion and other conditions .
Evaluating blood pressure data
The table on the right classies blood pressure data for
adults in accordance to the guidelines of the European
Society of Hypertension (ESH). (Data in mmHg)
The higher value is the one that determines the
evaluation. Example: a readout value between 150/85
or 120/98 mmHg indicates «Grade 1 Hypertension».
CategorySystolicDiastolic
Optimal< 120< 80
Normal120 - 12980 - 84
High normal130 - 13985 - 89
Grade 1 Hypertension140 - 15990 - 99
Grade 2 Hypertension160 - 179100 - 109
Grade 3 Hypertension
lsolated Systolic
180 110
140< 90
Hypertension
35
EN
Technical specications
Operating
temp.:
Storage temp. • -20 to 50 °C (-4 to 131 °F)
Weight:• 385 g (including batteries)
Dimensions:• 150 x 100 x 50 mm
Measuring
procedure:
Method: • Phase I systolic, Phase V diastolic
Measurement
range:
Cuff pressure
display:
Voltage source: • 4 x 1.5 V Batteries; size AA
Microlife reserves the right to alter technical specications without prior written notice.
36
• 10 to 40 °C (50 to 104 °F)
• 15 - 90 % relative maximum humidity
• Oscillometric, corresponding to Korotkoff
• 30 - 280 mmHg – blood pressure
• 40 - 200 beats per minute – pulse
• Range: 0 - 299 mmHg
• Resolution: 1 mmHg
• Static accuracy: pressure within ± 3 mmHg
• Pulse accuracy: ± 5 % of the readout value
• Mains adapter DC 6V, 600 mA (optional)
Reference to
standards:
Electromagnetic
compatibility:
• Device standard:
Device corresponds to the requirements of
the standard for noninvasive blood pressure
monitor.
EN 1060-1
EN 1060-3
EN 1060-4
IEC 60601-1
IEC 60601-1-2
• Device fullls the stipulations of the standard
IEC 60601-1-2.
The stipulations of the EU Directive 93/42/EEC for
Medical Devices Class IIa have been fullled.
Type BF applied partReference number
Serial numberManufacturer
Guarantee card
This device is covered by a ve-year guarantee from
the date of purchase. This guarantee is valid only on
presentation of the guarantee card completed by
the owner conrming date of purchase or purchase
receipt. Batteries, cuff and wearing parts are not
covered by this guarantee.