There are several methods of taking blood pressure readings. For example, random readings can be taken at supermarket or drug store pharmacies at the stationsprovided at most of them. The professional units can be purchased from medical supply stores, or on the Internet for under $200. Monitors are also available at most drug stores, discount stores, electronic stores, and on the Internet. When you enroll in the Novartis BP Success Zone Program you can get an Omron® HEM-432C monitor (a $40 value) free with rebate.
The wrist-type monitors, similar to one pictured here (Mark of Fitness WS-820) are available on line and are very convenient, since they are compact and can easily be carried in a purse or brief case to take hourly readings at work. Arm-cuff units, similar to one pictured below, are also excellent for either work or home use. A reading only takes about one minute, so taking frequent readings is not disruptive to ones work schedule. By supplementing these readings with trips to the supermarket and local drug store pharmacy kiosks, one can get a variety of accurate readings over the course of a week.