microlife BP A6 Plus Blood Pressure Monitor User Manual

microlife BP A6 Plus Blood Pressure Monitor

Product Information

• Specifications:
  • Brand: Microlife
  • Model: BP A6 Plus
  • Intended Use: Oscillometric blood pressure monitor for individuals aged 12 years or older
• Features:
  • Display with Date/Time
  • Systolic and Diastolic Value Measurement
  • Pulse Rate Measurement
  • Battery Display
  • Traffic Light Indicator
  • Stored Value Memory
  • Pulse Indicator
  • Cuff Check Indicator
  • Atrial Fibrillation Indicator
  • MAM Mode for Multiple Measurements
  • Arm Movement Indicator
  • User Indicator
  • MAM Interval Time Setting

Product Usage Instructions

• Preparation: Before use, ensure the device is dry and clean.
• Application: Strap the cuff around your upper arm as instructed in the manual.
• Measurement: Sit in a comfortable position, relax, and place the cuff at heart level. Press the start button to begin measurement.
• Reading: Note the systolic and diastolic values displayed, along with your pulse rate.
• Interpretation: Compare your readings with the provided blood pressure classification table to understand your blood pressure level.
• Atrial Fibrillation Detection: Monitor the Atrial Fibrillation Indicator for irregular pulse detection. Consult a physician if irregularities are detected.

FAQs

How do I evaluate my blood pressure?

Refer to the classification table provided in the manual for interpreting your blood pressure readings based on systolic and diastolic values.

Who should be screened for Atrial Fibrillation?

Atrial Fibrillation screening is recommended for individuals over 65 years of age and those with specific risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, coronary heart failure, or previous stroke. Screening is not recommended for young individuals or during pregnancy.

What should I do if I detect irregularities in my pulse rate?

If the Atrial Fibrillation Indicator shows irregularities in your pulse rate, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.

Can the device be used for multiple users?

Yes, the User Indicator feature allows tracking measurements for multiple users. Ensure each user selects their profile before taking measurements.

Product Discription

1. START/STOP Button

2. Display

3. Cuff Socket

4. Mains Adapter Socket

5. Battery Compartment

6. Cuff

7. Cuff Connector

8. MAM Switch

9. User Switch

10. Time Button

11. M-button (memory)

12. – «Backward» Button

13. + «Forward» Button

14. Lock Switch

15. USB Port
    Display

16. Date/Time

17. Systolic Value

18. Diastolic Value

19. Pulse Rate

20. Battery Display

21. Traffic Light Indicator

22. Stored Value

23. Pulse Indicator

24. Cuff Check Indicator

25. Atrial Fibrillation Indicator (AFIB)

26. MAM Mode

27. Arm Movement Indicator

28. User Indicator

29. MAM Interval Time

    • Read the instructions carefully before using this device.
    • Type BF applied part
    • Keep dry

Intended use

• This oscillometric blood pressure monitor is intended for measuring non-invasive blood pressure in people aged 12 years or older.
• The device can detect an irregular pulse suggestive of Atrial Fibrillation (AF). Please note that the device is not intended to diagnose AF. A diagnosis of AF can only be confirmed by ECG. The patient is advised to see a physician.

Dear Customer,

• Your new Microlife blood pressure monitor is a reliable medical device for taking measurements on the upper arm. It is simple to use, accurate and comes highly recommended for blood pressure monitoring in your home.
• Microlife AFIB detection is the world’s leading digital blood pressure measurement technology for the detection of atrial fibrillation (AF) and arterial hypertension. These are the two top risk factors of getting a stroke or heart disease.
• It is important to detect AF and hypertension at an early stage, even though you may not experience any symptoms.
• AF screening in general and thus also with the Microlife AFIB algorithm, is recommended for people 65 years and older. The AFIB algorithm indicates that atrial fibrillation may be present. For this reason, it is recommended that you visit your doctor when the device gives an AFIB signal during your blood pressure measurement.
• If you have any questions, or problems or want to order spare parts please contact your local Microlife-Customer Service.
• Your dealer or pharmacy will be able to give you the address of the Microlife dealer in your country.
• Alternatively, visit the internet at www.microlife.com where you will find a wealth of invaluable information on our products. Stay healthy – Microlife AG!

Important Facts About

Important Facts about Blood Pressure and Self-Measurement

• Blood pressure is the pressure of the blood flowing in the arteries generated by the pumping of the heart. Two values, the systolic (upper) value and the diastolic (lower) value, are always measured.
• The device indicates the pulse rate (the number of times the heart beats in a minute).
• Permanently high blood pressure values can damage your health and must be treated by your doctor!
• Always discuss your values with your doctor and tell him/her if you have noticed anything unusual or feel unsure. Never rely on single blood pressure readings.
• There are several causes of excessively high blood pressure values. Your doctor will explain them in more detail and offer treatment where appropriate. Besides medication, weight loss and exercise can also lower your blood pressure.
• Under no circumstances should you alter the dosages of drugs or initiate treatment without consulting your doctor.
• Depending on physical exertion and condition, blood pressure is subject to wide fluctuations as the day progresses. You should therefore take your measurements in the same quiet conditions and when you feel relaxed! Take at least two readings every time (in the morning and in the evening) and average the measurements.
• It is quite normal for two measurements taken in quick succession to produce significantly different results. Therefore we recommend using the MAM technology.
• Deviations between measurements taken by your doctor or in the pharmacy and those taken at home are quite normal, as these situations are completely different.
• Several measurements provide much more reliable information about your blood pressure than just one single measurement. Therefore we recommend using the MAM technology.
• Leave a small break of at least 15 seconds between two measurements.
• If you suffer from an irregular heartbeat, measurements taken with this device should be evaluated with your doctor.
• The pulse display is not suitable for checking the frequency of heart pacemakers!
• If you are pregnant, you should monitor your blood pressure regularly as it can change drastically during this time.
• This monitor is specially tested for use in pregnancy and pre-eclampsia.
• When you detect unusually high readings in pregnancy, you should measure after a short while again (eg. 1 hour). If the reading is still too high, consult your doctor or gynecologist.

How do I evaluate my blood pressure?

Important Facts about Atrial Fibrillation (AF)

• What is Atrial Fibrillation (AF)?
  • Normally, your heart contracts and relaxes to a regular beat. Certain cells in your heart produce electrical signals that cause the heart to contract and pump blood. Atrial fibrillation occurs when rapid, disorganized electrical signals are present in the heart’s two upper chambers, called the atria; causing them to contract irregularly (this is called fibrillation). Atrial fibrillation is the most common form of heart arrhythmia. It often causes no symptoms, yet it significantly increases your risk of stroke. You’ll need a doctor to help you control the problem.
• Who should be screened for Atrial Fibrillation?
  • AF screening is recommended for people over 65 years of age since the chance of having a stroke increases with age. AF screening is also recommended for people from the age of 50 years who have high blood pressure (e.g. SYS higher than 159 or DIA higher than 99) as well as those with diabetes, coronary heart failure or for those who have previously had a stroke.
  • In young people or in pregnancy AF screening is not recommended as it could generate false results and unnecessary anxiety. In addition, young individuals with AF have a low risk of getting a stroke as compared to elder people.
  • For more information visit our website: www.microlife.com/afib. Microlife AFIB detection provides a convenient way to screen for AF Knowing your blood pressure and knowing whether you or your family members have AF can help reduce the risk of stroke. Microlife AFIB detection provides a convenient way to screen for AF whilst taking your blood pressure.
• Risk factors you can control
  • Early diagnosis of AF followed by adequate treatment can significantly reduce the risk of getting a stroke. Knowing your blood pressure and knowing whether you have AF is the first step in proactive stroke prevention.

Using the Device

Using the Device for the First Time

Inserting the batteries
Switch the lock switch AN to the «unlock» position. The battery compartment 5 is on the bottom of the device. Insert the batteries (4 x 1.5 V, size AAA), thereby observing the indicated polarity.

Setting the date and time

1. After the new batteries are fitted, the year number flashes in the display. You can set the year by pressing either the «+» AM or the «-» AL button. To confirm and then set the month, press the time button AT.
2. Press the «+» AM or the «-» AL button to set the month. Press the time button AT to confirm and then set the day.
3. Follow the instructions above to set the day, hour and minutes.
4. Once you have set the minutes and pressed the time button, the date and time are set and the time is displayed.
5. If you want to change the date and time, press and hold the time button down for approx. 3 seconds until the year number starts to flash. Now you can enter the new values as described above.

Selecting the correct cuff
Microlife offers different cuff sizes. Select the cuff size to match the circumference of your upper arms (measured by close fitting in the centre of the upper arm).

This device comes with a M – L size cuff.

• Only use Microlife cuffs.
• Contact your local Microlife Service if the enclosed cuff 6 does not fit.
• Connect the cuff to the device by inserting the cuff connector 7 into the cuff socket 3 as far as it will go.

Selecting the user

This device allows to store the results for 2 individual users. Before each measurement, set the user switch 9 for the intended user: user 1 or user 2.

• User 1: slide the user switch 9 upwards to the user 1 icon.
• User 2: slide the user switch 9 downwards to the user 2 icon.

The first person to measure should select user 1.

Selecting standard or MAM mode
This device enables you to select either standard (standard single measurement) or MAM mode (automatic triple measurement). To select standard mode, slide the MAM switch 8 on the side of the device downwards to position «1» and to select MAM mode, slide this switch upwards to position «3».

MAM mode
In MAM mode, 3 measurements are automatically taken in succession and the result is then automatically analysed and displayed. Because blood pressure constantly fluctuates, a result determined in this way is more reliable than one produced by a single measurement.

• When you select the 3 measurements, the MAM-symbol BP appears in the display.
• The bottom, right hand section of the display shows a 1, 2 or 3 to indicate which of the 3 measurements is currently being taken.
• There is a break of 15 seconds between the measurements. A countdown indicates the remaining time.
• The individual results are not displayed. Your blood pressure will only be displayed after all 3 measurements are taken.
• Do not remove the cuff between measurements.
• If one of the individual measurements was questionable, a fourth one is automatically taken.
• Microlife AFIB is also activated in standard mode. If the device detects AF in standard mode, the cuff pressure will stop at a level of approx. 60 mmHg to receive more data. The hourglass BS will appear in the display.

Taking a Blood Pressure Measurement

Checklist for taking a reliable measurement

1. Avoid activity, eating or smoking immediately before the measurement.
2. Sit down on a back-supported chair and relax for 5 minutes. Keep your feet flat on the floor and do not cross your legs.
3. Always measure on the same arm (normally left). It is recommended that doctors perform double arm measurements on a patient’s first visit to determine which arm to measure in the future. The arm with the higher blood pressure should be measured.
4. Remove close-fitting garments from the upper arm. To avoid constriction, shirt sleeves should not be rolled up – they do not interfere with the cuff if they are laid flat.
5. Always ensure that the correct cuff size is used (marking on the cuff).
   • Fit the cuff closely, but not too tight.
   • Make sure that the cuff is positioned 2 cm above the elbow.
   • The artery mark on the cuff (ca. 3 cm long bar) must lie over the artery which runs down the inner side of the arm.
   • Support your arm so it is relaxed.
   • Ensure that the cuff is at the same height as your heart.
6. Slide the lock switch AN down to the «unlock» position. Press the START/STOP button 1 to start measuring.
7. The cuff will now pump up automatically. Relax, do not move and do not tense your arm muscles until the measurement result is displayed. Breathe normally and do not talk.
8. When the correct pressure is reached, the pumping stops and the pressure falls gradually. If the required pressure is not reached, the device will automatically pump some more air into the cuff.
9. During the measurement, the pulse indicator BM flashes in the display.
10. The result, comprising the systolic AQ the diastolic AR blood pressure and the pulse rate AS is displayed. Note also the explanations on further display symbols in this booklet.
11. When the device has finished measuring, remove the cuff.
12. Switch off the device. (The monitor does switch off automatically after approx. 1 min.).

How not to store a reading

As soon as the reading is displayed press and hold the START/ STOP button 1 until «M» BL is flashing. Confirm to delete the reading by pressing the M-button AK.

Appearance of the Atrial Fibrillation Indicator for Early Detection

• This device can detect atrial fibrillation (AF). This symbol BO indicates that atrial fibrillation was detected during the measurement.
• Please refer to the next paragraph for information regarding the consultation with your doctor.

Information for the doctor on frequent appearance of the atrial fibrillation indicator

• This device is an oscillometric blood pressure monitor that also analyses pulse irregularity during measurement.
• The AFIB symbol is displayed after the measurement if atrial fibrillation occurred during the measuring. If the AFIB symbol appears after having performed a blood pressure measurement, the patient is advised to perform another measurement. If the
• AFIB symbol appears again, we recommend the patient to seek medical advice.
• If the AFIB symbol appears on the screen of the blood pressure monitor, it indicates the possible presence of atrial fibrillation.
• The atrial fibrillation diagnosis, however, must be made by a cardiologist based on ECG interpretation.
• Keep the arm still during measuring to avoid false readings.
• This device may not or wrongly detect atrial fibrillation in people with pacemakers or defibrillators.

Traffic Light Indicator in the Display

• The bars on the left-hand edge of the display BK show you the range within which the indicated blood pressure value lies.
• Depending on the height of the bar, the readout value is either within the optimum (green), elevated (yellow), too high (orange) or dangerously high (red) range.
• The classification corresponds to the 4 ranges in the table as defined by the international guidelines (ESH, AHA, JSH), as described in «Section 1.».

PC-Link Functions

• This device can be used in conjunction with a personal computer (PC) running the Microlife Blood Pressure Analyser (BPA) software.
• The memory data can be transferred to the PC by connecting the monitor via a cable.
• If no CD and cable is included download the BPA software from www.microlife.com and use a USB cable with a Mini-B 5 pin connector.

Installation and data transmission

1. Insert the CD into the CD ROM drive of your PC. The installation will start automatically. If not, please click on «SETUP.EXE».
2. Connect the monitor via the cable to the PC; there is no need to switch the device on. 3 horizontal bars will appear on the display and last for 3 seconds.
3. The bars will then flash to indicate that the connection between PC and the device is successful. As long as the cable is plugged in, the bars will keep flashing and the buttons are disabled.
   • During the connection, the device is completely controlled by the computer. Please refer to the «help» file for software instructions.

Data Memory

• This device automatically stores up to 99 measurement values for each of the 2 users.

Viewing the stored values

• Select either user 1 or 2 with the user switch 9.
• Switch the lock switch AN to the «unlock» position. Press the M-button AK briefly. The display first shows «M» BL and «A», which stands for the average of all stored values.
• Pressing the «+» AM or the «-» AL button repeatedly enables you to move from one stored value to another. Press the M-button again to exit the memory mode.

Memory full

• Pay attention that the maximum memory capacity of 99 memories per user is not exceeded. When the 99 memory is full, the oldest value is automatically overwritten with the 100th value. Values should be evaluated by a doctor before the memory capacity is reached – otherwise data will be lost.

Clearing all values

• Make sure the correct user is activated.

1. Firstly unlock the device AN, then select either 1 or 2 with the user switch 9.
2. Hold down the M-button AK until «CL» appears and then release the button.
3. Press the M-button while «CL» is flashing to permanently clear all values of the selected user.
   • Cancel deletion: press START/STOP button 1 while «CL» is flashing.
   • Individual values cannot be cleared.

Battery Indicator and Battery change

Low battery
When the batteries are approximately ¾ empty the battery symbol BT will flash as soon as the device is switched on (partly filled battery displayed). Although the device will continue to measure reliably, you should obtain replacement batteries.
Flat battery – replacement
When the batteries are flat, the battery symbol BT will flash as soon as the device is switched on (flat battery displayed). You cannot take any further measurements and must replace the batteries.

1. Open the battery compartment 5 on the bottom of the device.
2. Replace the batteries – ensure correct polarity as shown by the symbols in the compartment.
3. To set a date and time, follow the procedure described in «Section 3.».
   •  The memory retains all values although the date and time must be reset – the year number therefore flashes automatically after the batteries are replaced.

Which batteries and which procedure?

• Use 4 new, long-life 1.5 V, size AAA alkaline batteries.
• Do not use batteries beyond their date of expiry.
• Remove batteries if the device is not going to be used for a prolonged period.

Using rechargeable batteries
You can also operate this device using rechargeable batteries.

• Only use «NiMH» type reusable batteries.
• Batteries must be removed and recharged when the flat battery symbol appears.
• They should not remain inside the device as they may become damaged (total discharge as a result of low use of the device, even when switched off).
• Always remove the rechargeable batteries if you do not intend to use the device for a week or more.
• Batteries cannot be charged in the blood pressure monitor. Recharge batteries in an external charger and observe the information regarding charging, care and durability.

Using a Mains Adapter

You can operate this device using the Microlife mains adapter (DC 6V, 600 mA). Only use the Microlife mains adapter available as an original accessory appropriate for your supply voltage. Ensure that neither the mains adapter nor the cable are damaged.

1. Plug the adapter cable into the mains adapter socket 4 in the blood pressure monitor.
2. Plug the adapter plug into the wall socket. When the mains adapter is connected, no battery current is consumed.

Error Messages

If an error occurs during the measurement, the measurement is interrupted and an error message, e.g. «ERR 3», is displayed.

Re-position the cuff and repeat the measurement.
« ERR 2 »

BQ

| Error signal| During the measurement, error signals were detected by the cuff, caused for instance by movement or muscle tension. Repeat the measurement, keeping your arm still.
« ERR 3 »

BN

| No pressure in the cuff| An adequate pressure cannot be generated in the cuff. A leak may have occurred. Check that the cuff is correctly connected and is not too loose. Replace the batteries if necessary. Repeat the measurement.
« ERR 5 »| Abnormal result| The measuring signals are inaccurate and no result can therefore be displayed. Read through the checklist for performing reliable measurements and then repeat the measurement.
Error| Description| Potential cause and remedy
---|---|---
« ERR 6 »| MAM Mode| There were too many errors during the measurement in MAM mode, making it impossible to obtain a final result. Read through the checklist for performing reliable measurements and then repeat the measurement.
« HI »| Pulse or cuff pressure too high| The pressure in the cuff is too high (over 299 mmHg) OR the pulse is too high (over 200 beats per minute). Relax for 5 minutes and repeat the measurement.
« LO »| Pulse too low| The pulse is too low (less than 30 beats per minute). Repeat the measurement.

Please immediately consult your doctor, if this or any other problem occurs repeatedly. If you think the results are unusual, please read through the information in «Section 1.» carefully.

Safety, Care, Accuracy Test and Disposal and protection

• Follow instructions for use. This document provides important product operation and safety information regarding this device.
• Please read this document thoroughly before using the device and keep for future reference.
• This device may only be used for the purposes described in these instructions. The manufacturer cannot be held liable for damage caused by the incorrect application.
• This device comprises sensitive components and must be treated with caution. Observe the storage and operating conditions described in the «Technical Specifications» section.
• Protect it from:
  • water and moisture
  • extreme temperatures
  • impact and dropping
  • contamination and dust
  • direct sunlight
  • heat and cold
• The cuffs are sensitive and must be handled with care.
• Do not exchange or use any other kind of cuff or cuff connector for measuring with this device.
• Only pump up the cuff once fitted.
• Do not use this device close to strong electromagnetic fields such as mobile telephones or radio installations. Keep a minimum distance of 3.3 m from such devices when using this device.
• Do not use this device if you think it is damaged or notice anything unusual.
• Never open this device.
• If the device is not going to be used for a prolonged period the batteries should be removed.
• Read the additional safety information provided within the individual sections of this instruction manual.
• The measurement results given by this device is not a diagnosis. It is not replace the need for the consultation of a physician, especially if not match the patient’s symptoms. Do not rely on the measurement result only, always consider other potentially occurring symptoms and the patient’s feedback. Calling a doctor or an ambulance is advised if needed.
• Ensure that children do not use this device unsupervised; some parts are small enough to be swallowed. Be aware of the risk of strangulation in case this device is supplied with cables or tubes.

Device care

• Clean the device only with a soft, dry cloth.

Cleaning the cuff

• Carefully remove spots on the cuff with a damp cloth and soapsuds.
• WARNING: Do not wash the cuff in a washing machine or dishwasher!

Accuracy test

• We recommend this device is tested for accuracy every 2 years or after mechanical impact (e.g. being dropped). Please contact your local Microlife Service to arrange the test (see foreword).

Disposal

• Batteries and electronic devices must be disposed of by the locally applicable regulations, not with domestic waste.

Guarantee

Guarantee period – please see the guarantee card.

1. Note! The warranty is valid only if there is a guarantee card which is issued properly.
2. The warranty covers the repair and replacement of manufacturing defects.
3. Delivery of goods to the repair centre and back is carried out at the buyer’s expense.
4. This warranty does not apply to:
   • batteries and other accessories, unless the warranty is claimed
   • mechanically damaged goods
   • cases of radioactive contamination
   • cases of damage due to non-observance of the operating rules, described in the manual
   • cases of damage caused by intentional or erroneous actions of the consumer
   • cases of damage caused by the ingress of foreign liquids and solids, insects, hair, piles, litter, other pollutants from the environment, etc.
   • cases of damage due to battery leak
   • goods with traces of interference or repair by an unauthorized person
   • goods that underwent unauthorized changes in design
   • failures caused by using network adapters, others than recommended by the manufacturer of goods indicated by the Microlife trademark
   • failures caused by self-use of spare parts and components from other manufacturers
   • events of force majeure (accident, fire, flood, malfunction of the electrical network, etc.)
5. This guarantee does not infringe upon the legitimate rights of the consumers that are granted by the current legislation of the Republic of Belarus, nor upon the consumer-seller rights that arise from the contract of sale made between them.

Technical Specifications

• Operating conditions: 10 – 40 °C / 50 – 104 °F 15 – 95 % relative maximum humidity
• Storage conditions: -20 – +55 °C / -4 – +131 °F 15 – 95 % relative maximum humidity
• Weight: 354 g (including batteries)
• Dimensions: 160 x 80 x 32 mm
• Measuring procedure: oscillometric
• Measurement range: 20 – 280 mmHg – blood pressure 30 – 200 beats per minute – pulse
• Cuff pressure display range: 0 – 299 mmHg
• Resolution: 1 mmHg
• Static accuracy: pressure within ± 3 mmHg
• Pulse accuracy: ± 5 % of the readout value
• Voltage source: 4 x 1.5 V alkaline batteries; size AAA
• Mains adapter DC 6V, 600 mA (optional)
• Battery lifetime: approx. 400 measurements (using new batteries)
• Included: blood pressure monitor, bag, cuff, adapter, 4 x AAA batteries, instruction manual, guarantee card, blood pressure diary, cuff marker
• IP Class: IP20
• Reference to standards: EN 1060-1 /-3 /-4; IEC 60601-1; IEC 60601-1-2 (EMC); IEC 60601-1-11
• Expected service life   Device: 12 years or 10000
• Measurements Accessories: 2 years

This device complies with the requirements of the Medical Device Directive 93/42/EEC. Technical alterations reserved.

• Date of production: first 8 digits of the serial number of the device.
• First 4 digits: year / 5th and 6th digit: month / 7th and 8th digit: day of production.

CONTACT

• Microlife AG
• Espenstrasse 139
• 9443 Widnau / Switzerland
• www.microlife.com.
• www.microlife.by.
• www.microlife.bg.
• www.microlife.com.
• IB BP A6 Plus BY-V3 2019

References

• Медицинское оборудование - Microlife / Микролайф
• Hypertension and Fever Management - Microlife AG

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