Can you think of a new way to view blood pressure....

Rather than getting all nervous every time the dang cuff goes on my arm?
(Fear of it being high, causes my heart to race and get a high reading)
I actually am avoiding going to the doctors due to it. Ughh.

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Doomflower · 41-45, M

When I have people who are nervous like you I have them sit, I put on the cuff, and get them to talk to me for a few minutes before I check. It seems to help some people.

I ask them how they're feeling, if they are having any chest pain, new or worsening shortness of breath, and to rate their pain level over all. If they take medications I ask if they have taken their meds today/when was the last dose and if they have been taking it/them consistently. From there, it depends on the person but the point is to put them at ease and make them feel like they're part of their own health care team.