What is Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM)?
Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM) is a way of monitoring your blood pressure as you move around doing the normal things you do in daily life, usually over 24 hours. It gives information about how the changes in your blood pressure may correspond with your daily activities and sleep patterns to give a complete picture. ABPM can minimise the problem of your blood pressure rising when being measured in your doctor’s rooms.
ABPM is used in helping to predict the risk of cardiovascular disease (heart attack or stroke). It can additionally be used to assess how effective a particular medication is in controlling high blood pressure, otherwise known as hypertension.
Having a monitor fitted is straightforward. Follow our step-by-step guide to know what to expect.
A guide to having your ABPM
Step 1/8 - When you see your doctor
If your doctor thinks it would be helpful for you to have your blood pressure monitored over a 24-hour period, they will give you a request form to bring to us. This is a good time to ask any questions you may have about your blood pressure.A guide to having your ABPM
Step 2/8 - Booking an appointment
Next, you will need to book an appointment at one of our collection centres to have a monitor fitted. ABP monitoring is offered at more than 100 SNP collection centres across Queensland, northern NSW and the Northern Territory.Appointments are booked directly with each of our ABPM collection centres.
For detailed information about the booking process, click the button below.
A guide to having your ABPM
Step 3/8 - Preparing
There are a few important steps you must take before coming to your appointment.A guide to having your ABPM
Step 4/8 - Having your monitor fitted
You will be fitted with a small, lightweight, portable monitor by one of our trained pathology collectors.
A guide to having your ABPM
Step 5/8 - Wearing the monitor and what to expect
Your monitor is programmed to measure your blood pressure at regular intervals throughout the day and overnight.What to expect when wearing your monitor
A guide to having your ABPM
Step 6/8 - Having it removed
When you return the following day we will remove your monitor.Allow 10-15 minutes for this. Be sure to bring your Patient Diary. This is very important in providing all the information needed for your diagnosis.
A guide to having your ABPM
Step 7/8 - How the results are reported
Your monitor will gather a wealth of data about your blood pressure.This is uploaded and analysed with a detailed report generated for your doctor. The report is typically issued within 1-2 working days and sent by secure electronic transmission. Paper copies are issued on request.
A guide to having your ABPM
Step 8/8 - Seeing your doctor about your results
Allow several working days after having your monitor removed before seeing your doctor to ensure they have received your results.