5 Common Mistakes When Using a Wrist BP Monitor — and How to Avoid Them

Frustrated that your wrist blood pressure monitor keeps saying error? You're not alone. From incorrect positioning to poor calibration, there are common mistakes that can throw off your readings. Learn how to monitor wrist blood pressure accurately, fix issues when your wrist blood pressure monitor is not working, and get reliable results every time—without the guesswork.

Introduction: Why Wrist BP Monitors Can Be Tricky

Wrist blood pressure monitors are sleek, portable, and easy to use—until they aren’t. If your wrist blood pressure monitor keeps saying error or gives inconsistent readings, you're not alone. Many users struggle to get accurate results, often due to overlooked mistakes. Whether you're new to home monitoring or trying to fix a device that seems unreliable, this guide will help you monitor wrist blood pressure like a pro.

Let’s walk through the top 5 mistakes people make—and how you can avoid them to ensure your readings are accurate, consistent, and frustration-free.

Mistake #1: Improper Wrist Positioning

This is the most common reason your wrist blood pressure monitor keeps saying error. Proper positioning is critical for accuracy. Because your wrist is farther from your heart than your upper arm, even a slight angle can distort results.

What You Might Be Doing Wrong:

• Wrist is too low or too high compared to heart level.
• Monitor is loosely or unevenly fastened.
• Palm is facing downward instead of upward.

How to Fix It:

• Rest your elbow on a table.
• Raise your wrist so the monitor is level with your heart.
• Keep your palm facing up, and relax your hand.

Proper positioning can make the difference between a failed reading and one that reflects your true blood pressure.

Mistake #2: Incorrect Body Posture

Even if your wrist is positioned correctly, poor body posture can lead to unreliable results or repeated errors. Your posture affects circulation and can significantly impact your systolic and diastolic readings.

What You Might Be Doing Wrong:

• Crossing your legs or feet.
• Sitting on an unstable surface or leaning backward.
• Slouching or tensing your shoulders.

How to Fix It:

• Sit in a firm chair with your feet flat on the floor.
• Keep your back straight and supported.
• Relax your shoulders and breathe deeply before measuring.

Good posture not only improves the accuracy of your reading but helps create a calm environment conducive to consistent tracking.

Mistake #3: Wearing the Monitor Over Clothing

If you're placing your wrist monitor over a sleeve or bracelet, you're asking for trouble. Fabric, even thin layers, can interfere with the sensor’s ability to detect your pulse and cause your wrist blood pressure monitor to not work as intended.

How to Fix It:

• Always place the cuff directly against your bare skin.
• Remove any accessories like watches or bangles before use.

Clear contact ensures that the sensors work effectively and reduces error messages.

Mistake #4: Moving or Talking During Measurement

Your wrist monitor is extremely sensitive to movement. A slight shift or whispered conversation can throw off its reading, triggering errors or abnormally high numbers.

What to Avoid:

• Talking, coughing, or sneezing during the test.
• Turning your head or shifting your body.

Tip:

Remain completely still and silent during the measurement process, which typically lasts 30–60 seconds.

Mistake #5: Ignoring Calibration and Maintenance

Even the best wrist monitors need regular maintenance. If your wrist blood pressure monitor keeps saying error repeatedly, it could be a sign the device needs calibration—or replacement.

Maintenance Tips:

• Check the batteries regularly and replace them when needed.
• Keep the cuff clean and free of dust or oils.
• Have your monitor calibrated professionally once a year, or as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

Proper upkeep helps ensure that your device stays accurate and trustworthy in the long term.

How to Use a Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor Correctly

Here’s a step-by-step process to help you get an accurate reading every time:

1. Find a quiet, comfortable space with a table to rest your elbow.
2. Sit upright with your feet flat on the floor, back supported.
3. Wrap the cuff snugly around your bare wrist, about 1 inch above the joint.
4. Place your arm across your chest or rest it on a cushion so your wrist is level with your heart.
5. Relax for at least 5 minutes before starting the measurement.
6. Remain silent and still while the monitor inflates and displays your reading.
7. Record your readings consistently, ideally at the same time daily.

Using the monitor the right way not only avoids errors but ensures you get data you can confidently share with your healthcare provider.

Troubleshooting a Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor That Keeps Saying Error

If your wrist blood pressure monitor keeps saying error, try the following:

• Reposition the cuff correctly and retry after a few minutes.
• Replace the batteries with a fresh set.
• Reset the monitor according to the manual instructions.
• Ensure the cuff is clean and free from lint or oils.
• Try a new position with less ambient noise or distractions.

If issues persist, your monitor may need recalibration or replacement. Consider upgrading to a high-quality model like our Wrist Blood Pressure Monitor with LED Display, designed for accuracy and ease of use.

Explore more reliable health and wellness tools in our Body Care and Health Devices collection.

Take Control of Your Health with Confident Monitoring

Getting an error on your wrist monitor can be frustrating—but it doesn’t have to be a mystery. With the right posture, positioning, and habits, you can trust your readings and take meaningful steps toward better health.

Now that you know what causes errors and how to fix them, you’re equipped to monitor wrist blood pressure confidently from the comfort of your home. Say goodbye to second-guessing and hello to dependable, stress-free tracking.

Looking for more wellness tools to support your self-care journey? Discover our full range of curated health solutions in the Body Care and Health Devices collection.