Oregon Scientific BPW810 User Manual - Page 6

EN CARING FOR YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE MONITOR ABOUT BLOOD PRESSURE To ensure you receive the maximum benefit from using this product, please observe the following care guidelines. • When not in use, store the unit in a dry place away from direct sunlight. • Do not immerse the unit in water. If it comes in contact with water, dry it immediately with a soft lint-free cloth. • Use a soft, slightly moistened cloth to wipe off the unit and cuff. Do not use abrasive or corrosive cleaning agents, as these may cause damage. • Remove the batteries whenever you are planning to store the unit for a long period of time. • When replacing batteries, use new batteries as specified in this user manual. Do not mix new and old batteries. • Do not place objects such as stickers on the wrist cuff or unit, as these may impair the measurement. • Do not subject the unit to excessive force, shock, dust, temperature changes, or humidity. Such treatment may result in malfunction, a shorter electronic life span, damaged batteries, or distorted parts. • Do not tamper with the internal components. Doing so will terminate the product warranty and may cause damage. • The unit contains no user- serviceable parts. • If you no longer need to use this product, protect the environment by bringing it to your dealer or designated collection point for proper disposal. What is blood pressure? Blood pressure is the force generated by the blood against the walls of arteries during cardiac contraction and relaxation (e.g., the pumping action of the heart). What are systolic pressure and diastolic pressure? When ventricles contract and pump blood out of the heart, blood pressure reaches its maximum value. This highest pressure in the cycle is known as systolic pressure. When the heart relaxes between heartbeats, the lowest blood pressure is diastolic pressure. What is mean arterial pressure (MAP)? The mean arterial pressure (MAP) is the average pressure that forces blood through the arteries. It is not the average of the systolic and diastolic blood pressure; rather, MAP corresponds to a state of balance between the compressive and expansive forces acting on the arterial wall when there is no distension outward or inward. MAP is an excellent way to evaluate the stress on the walls of your blood vessels, and can be used to evaluate excessive load on the cardiovascular system. Show your MAP history to your doctor to provide additional information that may help him or her understand your situation. 5