Microlife BP RM 100: The Risk Manager Instruction Manual
The Risk Manager Instruction Manual: Microlife BP RM 100
The Risk Manager
Instruction Manual
Table of contents
1. Introduction
1.1. Features
1.2. Important information about self-measurement
2. Important information of blood pressure and its measurement
2.1. How does high/low blood pressure arise?
2.2. Which values are normal?
2.3. What can be done, if regular high/low values are obtained?
2.4. Risk Factor Classification
2.5. MAM technology (Microlife Average Mode)
3. Components of your monitor
4. Using your blood pressure monitor
4.1. Inserting the batteries
4.2. Using an AC adapter (special accessory)
4.3. Cuff connection
4.4. Setting the time and date
4.5. How to input Risk Factors
5. Carrying out a measurement
5.1. Before the measurement
5.2. Common sources of error
5.3. Fitting the cuff
5.4. Measurement mode selection
5.5. Measuring procedure
5.6. Discontinuing a measurement
5.7. Memory recall
6. Error messages/malfunctions
7. Care and maintenance, recalibration
8. Guarantee
9. Technical specifications
10. www.microlife.com
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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. Features
Your blood pressure monitor is a fully automatic, digital blood pressure measuring device with integrated
MAM technology and automatic risk factor classification for use on the upper arm. This monitor enables
very fast and reliable measurement of the systolic and diastolic blood pressure as well your pulse by use of
the oscillometric method.
This device is easy to use and is proven in clinical studies to provide excellent accuracy. The large display
makes it easy to understand what the monitor is doing and the cuff pressure during a measurement.
Please read through this instruction manual carefully before use and then keep it in a safe place. For further
questions on the subject of blood pressure and its measurement, please contact your doctor.
Attention!
1.2. Important information about self-measurement
• Self-measurement means Control, not diagnosis or treatment. Your values must always be discussed
with your doctor. You should never alter the dosages of any medication without direction from your
doctor.
• The pulse reading is not suitable for checking heart pacemakers!
• If you have been diagnosed with a severe Arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat, measurements made with
this instrument should only be evaluated after consultation with the doctor.
Electromagnetic interference:
This device contains sensitive electronic components. Avoid strong electrical or electromagnetic fields in
the direct vicinity of the device (e.g. mobile telephones, microwave ovens. Electrical interference can lead
to temporary impairment of the measuring accuracy).
2. IMPORTANT INFORMATION OF BLOOD PRESSURE AND ITS MEASUREMENT
2.1. How does high/low blood pressure arise?
Your blood pressure level is determined in the circulatory center of your brain. Your nervous system allows
your body to adapt or alter blood pressure in response to different situations. Your body alters your pulse
and the width of blood vessels through changes in muscles in the walls of blood vessels.
Your blood pressure reading is highest when your heart pumps or ejects blood. This stage is called your
Systolic Blood Pressure. Your blood pressure is lowest when the heart rests. (in-between beats). This is
called your diastolic blood pressure.
It is critical to maintain blood pressure values within a «normal» range(s) in order to prevent particular
diseases.
2.2. Which values are normal?
Blood pressure is too high if, when taken at rest, your systolic pressure is over 140mmHg and/or your
diastolic pressure is above 90mmHg. If you obtain readings above these levels you should consult your
doctor immediately. High blood pressure values over time damage blood vessels, vital organs such as the
kidney and even your heart.
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Should the systolic blood-pressure values lie between 140mmHg and 160mmHg and/or the diastolic blood-
pressure values lie between 90mmHg and 100mmHg, consult your doctor. Regular self-checks will be
necessary.
When blood-pressure values are too low, i.e. systolic values under 100mmHg and/or diastolic values under
60mmHg, consult your doctor.
Even with normal blood-pressure values, a regular self-check with your blood-pressure monitor is
recommended. In this way you can detect possible changes in your values early and react appropriately.
If you are undergoing medical treatment to control your blood pressure, please keep a record of the level of
your blood pressure by carrying out regular self-measurements at specific times of the day. Show these
values to your doctor. Never use the results of your measurements to independently alter drug
doses prescribed by your doctor.
Table for classifying blood-pressure values (units mmHg): World Health Organization:
Range Systolic Diastolic Recommendations
Blood Pressure Blood Pressure
Hypotension lower than 100 lower than 60 Check with your doctor
Normal range between 100 and 140 between 60 and 90 Self-check
Mild hypertension between 140 and 160 between 90 and 100 Consult your doctor
Moderate hypertension between 160 and 180 between 100 and 110 Consult your doctor
Serious hypertension higher than 180 higher than 110 Urgent! See your doctor.
Specific systolic higher than 140 lower than 90 Consult your doctor
hypertension
☞ Further information
• If your values are mostly «normal» under resting conditions but exceptionally high under conditions of
physical or psychological stress, it is possible that you are suffering from so-called «labile hypertension».
In any case, please discuss the values with your doctor.
• Correctly measured diastolic blood-pressure values above 120mmHg require immediate medical
treatment.
2.3. What can be done, if regular increased/low values are obtained?
a) Please consult your doctor.
b) Increased blood-pressure values (various forms of hypertension) over time are associated with conside-
rable risks to health. Blood vessels in your body are endangered due to constriction caused by deposits
in the vessel walls (Arteriosclerosis). This can result in a deficient supply of blood to important organs
(heart, brain, muscles). Additionally, the heart will become structurally damaged.
c) There are many different causes of high blood pressure. We differentiate between the common
primary (essential) hypertension, and secondary hypertension. Secondary hypertension can cause
organ malfunctions. Please consult your doctor for information about the possible origins of your own
increased blood pressure values.
d) There are lifestyle changes you can make to prevent and reduce high blood pressure. These measures
must be part of a healthy lifestyle and include:
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A) Eating habits
• Maintain a normal weight as prescribed by your doctor.
• Avoid excessive consumption of common salt. Please note many «packaged foods» contain high levels
of salt.
• Avoid fatty foods. (Packaged foods are frequently high in fats)
B) Previous illnesses
Consistently follow any medical instructions for treating previous illness such as:
• Diabetes (Diabetes mellitus or sugar diabetes)
• Fat metabolism disorder
• Gout
C) Habits
• Eliminate smoking
• Drink only moderate amounts of alcohol
• Restrict your caffeine consumption (Coffee, tea, chocolate, etc.)
D) Physical conditioning
• After a preliminary medical examination, exercise regularly.
• Choose sports which require endurance and avoid those which require strength.
• Avoid reaching the limit of your performance.
• With previous illnesses and/or an age of over 40 years, please consult your doctor before beginning your
exercise routine. Your physician will help you develop an exercise routine that is appropriate for you.
2.4. Risk Factor Classification
In 1999 the World Health Organization (WHO) issued guidelines for the classification of the risk of a
cardiovascular event (1999 World Health Organization - International Society of Hypertension Guidelines for
the Management of Hypertension; Journal of Hypertension 1999, 17:151-183).
According to these guidelines, patients with high blood pressure are classified into four different risk
classes. Along with the blood pressure, the following risk factors are analyzed: sex, age, smoking,
cholesterol, family history of premature cardiovascular disease, diabetes.
The RM 100 device enables these factors to be entered easily using the «Risk Factor Input» button. In
conjunction with the blood pressure measurement, a risk categorization depending on the number of risk
factors, is then performed automatically by the device and displayed after the measurement.
Blood Pressure in mmHg
Risk Factors Systolic 140 – 159 or Systolic 160 – 179 or Systolic > 179 or
Diastolic 90 - 99 Diastolic 100 - 109 Diastolic > 109
none L (Low Risk) M (Medium Risk) H (High Risk)
1 or 2 M (Medium Risk) M (Medium Risk) VH (Very High Risk)
3 or more OR diabetes H (High Risk) H (High Risk) VH (Very High Risk)
NOR (Normal) is displayed when the systolic measurements are below 140 and diastolic measurements are
below 90 mmHg. Patient should continue self-check.
Patient should consult doctor when risk category is: L, M, H or VH
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WHO guidelines (1999) give the following recommendations:
L – Low Risk: Doctor should observe the patient over a significant period of time before deciding weather
to institute drug treatment.
M – Medium Risk: Blood pressure and other risk factors should be monitored for several weeks and
obtain further information before doctor decides weather to institute drug treatment.
H – High Risk / VH – Very High Risk: Doctor should institute immediate drug treatment for the hyper-
tension and the other risk factors or conditions present.
2.5. MAM technology (Microlife Average Mode)
• «MAM technology» is a new type of concept for optimum reliability in self-measurement of blood
pressure.
• An advanced measurement accuracy is achieved by the automatic analysis of three successive
measurements.
• The new system provides reliable values for the doctor and can be used as the basis for reliable
diagnostics and medication therapy for high blood pressure.
A) Why MAM?
• Human blood pressure is not stable and can vary
considerably within a short period of time.
B) Key advantages
Reduction of:
• Insufficient rest prior to measurement
• Movement artefacts (talking or moving during
measurement)
• Cuff positioning influences
C) Medical benefits
• Improved accuracy
• Reliable patient self-measurement data for the doctor
• Safe hypertension diagnosis
• Reliable therapy control
D) Measurement sequence
• With the full measurement cycles, the total
measurement time remains less than 3 minutes,
compared to a single measurement time of 1.5 minute.
• Single results are not displayed.
• The display counts down the time remaining until the
next reading.
• Due to the «Data Analysis» result, a 4th measurement
may be applied.
• Only the final analysed data reading is displayed.
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3. COMPONENTS OF YOUR MONITOR
The illustration shows the device consisting of:
a) Main unit:
AC/DC Power
Socket
Risk Factor Input
Cuff Socket
Confirm Risk
Factor
Time
Start
0/I Button
Single/Average mode switch
b) Upper arm cuff:
Medium cuff (M) for arm circumference 22-32 cm or
Large cuff (L) for arm circumference 32-42 cm
(Please note, the large cuff is available as an optional accessory)
4. USING YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE MONITOR
4.1. Inserting the batteries
The battery compartment is located on the back of
the device (see illustration).
a) Remove cover as illustrated
b) Insert the batteries (4 x size AA 1,5V), observing
the indicated polarity.
c) If a battery warning appears in the display, the
batteries are discharged and must be replaced.
Attention!
• After the battery warning appears, the device will not work until the
batteries have been replaced.
• Please use «AA» Long-Life or Alkaline 1.5V Batteries. The use of
rechargeable batteries (1.2V Accumulators) is not recommended.
• If your blood-pressure monitor is left unused for long periods, please
remove the batteries from the device.
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Functional check: Hold on the 0/I button down to test all the display symbols. When functioning correctly
all symbols must appear.
4.2. Using an AC adapter (optional accessory)
It is possible to operate this blood-pressure instrument, with a Microlife AC adapter (output 6 V DC / 600
mA with DIN plug).
a) Plug the AC plug into the socket at the side of
the instrument.
b) Plug the AC adapter into a 230V or 110V power
socket. Test that power is available by pressing
the O/I button.
Note:
• No power is taken from the batteries while the AC adapter is connected to the instrument.
• If power is interrupted during the measurement (e.g. by accidental removal of the AC adapter from the
socket, the instrument must be reset by removing the plug from its socket and reinserting the connections.
• Please consult your dealer if you have questions relating to the AC adapter.
4.3. Cuff connection
Insert the cuff tube into the opening provided on the
left side of the instrument, as shown in the diagram.
4.4. Setting the time and date
This blood-pressure monitor automatically records the time and date of each measurement. This is very
important information as blood pressure normally varies over the course of a day.
1. Press the «Time» button for at least 3 seconds.
The display now indicates the set year, during
which the last two characters flash.
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2. The correct year can be entered by pressing the
« »button.
Tip: Press and hold the button for to advance
quickly.
3. Press the «Time» button again.
The display now switches to the current date,
during which the first character (month) flashes.
4. The corresponding month can now be entered by
pressing the « » button.
5. Repeat the above procedure to adjust date, hour
and minute.
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4.5. How to input Risk Factors
1) Press «Risk Factor Input» button to get into risk
factor input mode. At first, a cursor appears and
points to the first risk factor.
2) Press the « » button to select this risk factor, or
press the «RISK Factor Input» button to ignore
the first risk factor and to shift the cursor to the
next risk factor.
Follow the same procedure to select or ignore
the rest of the risk factors.
Note:
• Default setting is None (no risk factor). If no risk factor is selected, the cursor will stay at None too.
• All of the selected risk factors will be erased every time when you enter the risk factor inputting mode.
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Risk Factor
Input
5. CARRYING OUT A MEASUREMENT
5.1. Before the measurement
• Avoid eating, smoking as well as all forms of exertion directly before measurement. All these factors
influence the measurement result. Try to find time to relax by sitting in an armchair in a quiet
atmosphere for about 5 minutes before measurement.
• Remove any garment that fits closely to your upper arm.
• Always measure on the same arm (normally left).
• Take measurements regularly at the same time of day, since blood-pressure changes during the course
of the day.
5.2. Common sources of error
Note: Comparable blood-pressure measurements always require the same conditions! These are normally
always quiet conditions.
• All efforts by the patient to support their arm can increase blood-pressure. Make sure you are in a
comfortable, relaxed position and do not activate any of the muscles in the measurement arm during
measurement. Use a cushion for support if necessary.
• If the arm artery lies considerably lower or higher than the heart, an false reading will be obtained.
Each 15cm difference in height results in a measurement error of 10mmHg!
• Cuffs that are too narrow or too short result in false measurement values. Selecting the correct cuff is of
great importance. The correct cuff size is dependent upon the circumference of the arm (measured in the
centre). The permissible range is printed on the cuff. If this is not suitable for your use, please contact
your dealer for the correct size. The permissible range for a Medium cuff is 22-32cm while the permis-
sible range for a Large cuff is 32-42 cm. Note: Only use clinically approved Microlife Cuffs!
• A loose cuff causes false measurement values.
5.3. Fitting the cuff
a) Push the cuff over the left upper arm so that the tube points in the
direction of the lower arm.
b) Place the cuff on the arm as illustrated. Make certain that the lower
edge of the cuff lies approximately 2 to 3 cm above the elbow and
2–3 cm
that the rubber tube leaves the cuff on the inner side of the arm.
c) Tighten the free end of the cuff and close the cuff by affixing the
Velcro.
tube
d) The cuff should be snug on your upper arm so that you can fit 2
fingers between the cuff and your upper arm. Any piece of clothing
which restricts the arm (e.g. a pullover) must be taken off.
e) Secure the cuff with the Velcro closer in such a way that it lies
comfortably and is not too tight. Lay your arm on a table (palm
upwards) so that the cuff is at the same height as the heart. Make
sure that the tube is not kinked.
Comment: If it is not possible to fit the cuff to your left arm, it can also
be placed on the right. However, all measurements should be made using
the same arm.
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5.4. Measurement mode selection
Clinical studies demonstrate taking multiple blood pressure readings and calculating an «average» is more
likely to determine your true blood pressure. Your Microlife Average Mode unit allows you to switch the
unit to a special Average Mode setting (MAM) that automatically takes multiple readings!
Average Mode / MAM:
a) If you would like to take an Average Mode measurement,
please slide the switch to position «3».
b) Average Mode takes generally 3 measurements in succession
and calculates the result.
c) An « » symbol in the display indicates that the unit is set
to the Average Mode.
Single mode:
a) If you would like to take single measurement, please slide the
switch to position «1».
b) Single mode only takes 1 measurement.
5.5. Measuring procedure
After the cuff has been appropriately positioned, the measurement can begin:
a) Press the START button. The pump begins to inflate
the cuff. The rising pressure in the cuff is shown in the
display.
b) After the suitable inflation pressure has been reached,
the pump stops and the pressure gradually falls. The
cuff pressures are displayed. In case that the inflation
pressure is not sufficient, the monitor automatically
re-inflates to a higher level.
c) When the instrument detects a pulse, the heart
symbol in the display starts to flash and a beep is
heard for every heartbeat.
d) A longer beep is sounded when the measurement has
been completed.
The systolic, and diastolic blood pressures and pulse
rate now appear in the display.
e) Depending on the blood pressure measured and the
risk factors input, together with the result the related
risk class (see 2.4) is indicated in a field with a red
border on the display.
f) The measurement readings remain on the display until
you switch off the instrument. If no button is pressed
for a period of 5 minutes the instrument switches
itself off in order to preserve the batteries.
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g) When the unit is set to Average Mode setting
generally 3 separate measurements will take place in
succession and the monitor will calculate your detected
blood pressure value. There will be 15 seconds resting
time between each measurement. A count down on the
screen indicates the remaining time and a beep will
sound 5 seconds before the 2nd and 3rd readings will
begin. In cases where the data differs significantly
between successive readings, a fourth measurement is
performed before the result will be displayed. In rare
cases the blood pressure is so unstable that even after
four measurements the data varies too much. In this
case «ERR 6» is shown and no result can be given.
5.6. Discontinuing a measurement
If it is necessary to interrupt a blood pressure measurement for any reason (e.g. the patient feels unwell), the
0n/Off button can be pressed at any time. The device immediately lowers the cuff pressure automatically.
5.7. Memory recall
Pressing the « » button after switch on displays the mean blood pressure for the last 7 days. Every result is
saved and the daily mean determined from all the values measured during a day. The value displayed is the
mean of the last 7 daily means. Only this value can be displayed, no other individual values.
6. ERROR MESSAGES/MALFUNCTIONS
If an error occurs during a measurement, the measurement is discontinued and a corresponding error code
is displayed. (Example Error no. 1)
Error No. Possible cause(s)
ERR 1 The systolic pressure was determined but afterwards the cuff pressure fell below 20 mmHg.
This situation can occur, for example, if the tube becomes unplugged after the systolic blood
pressure has been measured. Further possible cause: No pulse has been detected.
ERR 2 Unnatural pressure impulses influence the measurement result. Reason: The arm was moved
during the measurement (Artefact).
ERR 3 The inflation of the cuff takes too long. The cuff is not correctly seated.
ERR 5 The measured results have indicated an unacceptable difference between the systolic and
diastolic pressure. Take another measurement, carefully following the instructions. Contact
your doctor, if you still obtain unusual results.
ERR 6 Single data differ too much during Average Mode even after 4 cycles. No average result can
be displayed.
HI The pressure in the cuff is too high (over 300 mmHg) OR the pulse is too high (over 200 beats
per minute). Relax for 5 minutes and repeat the measurement.*
LO The pulse is too low (less than 40 beats per minute). Repeat the measurement.*
* Please consult your doctor, if this or any other problem occurs repeatedly
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Other possible malfunctions and possible solutions: If problems occur when using the device, the
following points should be checked and if necessary, the corresponding measures are to be taken:
Malfunction Remedy
The display remains empty when the
1. Check whether the batteries are installed with the correct
instrument is switched on although the
polarity and correct if necessary.
batteries are in place.
2. If the display is unusual, re-insert batteries or exchange them.
The pressure does not rise although the
• Check the connection of the cuff tube and connect properly if
pump is running.
necessary.
The device frequently fails to measure
1. Fit the cuff correctly on the arm.
the blood pressure values, or the values
2. Before starting the measurement make sure that the cuff is
measured are too low (too high).
not fitted too tightly and that there is no rolled-up sleeve
exerting pressure on the arm above the measuring position.
Take off articles of clothing if necessary.
3. Measure the blood pressure again in complete peace and quiet.
Every measurement results in different
• Please read the following information and the points listed
values although the device functions nor-
under «Common sources of error». Repeat the measurement.
mally and the values displayed are normal.
The blood pressure values measured
• Record the daily development of the values and consult your
differ from those measured by the doctor.
doctor about them.
☞ Further information
The level of blood-pressure is subject to fluctuations even in healthy people. It is important to compare
measurements taken under the same conditions and at the same time of day. (Quiet conditions)!
If you have any questions regarding the use of this blood pressure monitor, please ask your dealer or
pharmacist for the Microlife Service representative in your country. The Microlife Service Team will be
happy to help you. Never attempt to repair the instrument yourself!
Any unauthorized opening of the instrument invalidates all guarantee claims!
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7. CARE AND MAINTENANCE, RECALIBRATION
a) Do not expose the device to either extreme
temperatures, humidity, dust or direct sunlight.
b) The cuff contains a sensitive air-tight bubble. Handle
the cuff carefully and avoid all types of straining
through twisting or buckling.
c) Handle the tube carefully. Avoid stress from pulling,
pinching and sharp edges.
d) Clean the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use
gasoline, thinners or similar solvents. Carefully
remove spots on the cuff with a damp cloth and
soapsuds. The cuff should not be washed in a
washing machine or dishwasher!
e) Do not drop the instrument or treat it roughly in any
way. Avoid strong vibrations.
f) Never open the device! This can alter the factory
set calibration and affect the accuracy!
Periodical re-calibration
Sensitive measuring devices must be checked for accuracy from time to time. We recommend a periodical
inspection of your unit by an authorized Microlife dealer every 2 years.
Your authorized Microlife dealer would be pleased to provide more information regarding calibration.
8. GUARANTEE
This blood-pressure monitor is guaranteed for 3 years from date of purchase. This guarantee includes the
instrument and the cuff. The guarantee does not apply to damage caused by improper handling, damage
from leaking batteries, accidents, not following the operating instructions or alterations made to the
instrument by third parties.
The guarantee is only valid upon presentation of the guarantee card filled out by the dealer.
Name and company address of the responsible dealer:
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Gasoline
9. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Weight: 600 g (with batteries)
Size: 155 (W) x 127 (L) x 45 (H) mm
Storage temperature: –20 to +50°C
Humidity: 15 to 90% relative humidity maximum
Operation temperature: 10 to 40°C
Display: LCD-Display (Liquid Crystal Display)
Measuring method: Oscillometric
Pressure sensor: Capacitive
Measuring range:
SYS/DIA: 30 to 280 mmHg
Pulse: 40 to 200 beats per minute
Cuff pressure display range: 0–299 mmHg
Measuring resolution: 1 mmHg
Accuracy: Pressure within ± 3 mmHg
Pulse ± 5 % of the reading
Power source: a) 4 x 1.5 V Batteries; size AA
b) AC adaptor 6 V DC 600 mA (optional)
Cuffs: M size for arm circumference 22–32 cm or
L size for arm circumference 32–42 cm
Reference to standards: EU directive 93/42/EEC
NIBP - requirements: EN 1060-1 /-3 /-4 & ANSI / AAMI SP10
Technical alterations reserved!
10. www.microlife.com
Detailed user information about our products as well as services can be found at www.microlife.com.
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