Heart Education Awareness Resource and Training through eLearning (HEARTe)

Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM)

When Evelyn visits her GP practice for her annual review, her clinic blood pressure is 164/105 mmHg. Evelyn is referred to the practice nurse for 24 hour ABPM.

Evelyn sees the practice nurse and is fitted with an ambulatory blood pressure cuff. She is advised to wear the device for 24 hours. Her BP is measured regularly via the cuff and a device that is worn on her waist. A follow-up appointment is made. 

Pulse point

Points to consider

If ABPM shows that Evelyn’s blood pressure has increased to stage 2 hypertension, she will need to have her ASSIGN score re-calculated as her risk may have increased. Can you remember what is the threshold for stage 2 hypertension? What additional tests would Evelyn need at this stage?

Page last reviewed: 17 Sep 2020