This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.
I want to begin this product review of the Omron 5 series model BP742N blood pressure monitor by indicating that I have a "bias" toward the Omron brand in that I've owned their older version of the Omron 3 Series model BP 710 for some 7 years now. Technology changes; however, one thing remains constant and that is the g-r-e-a-t(!) product support Omron Healthcare representatives provide. As with a lot of other electronics products, technology changes over time and; whereas, my older BP monitor model has 10 sensors in the arm cuff I am told that to better detect heart health this newer Omron 5 series model BP742N (as well as the newer version of the Omron 3 series model "BP710N") has 50 sensors in the arm cuff. In addition, these newer arm cuffs of both models can accommodate arms ranging from 9 to 17 inches in circumferance. These newer arm cuffs are somewhat more rigid and larger in profile than the arm cuff of my 7 year old Omron model BP710 which is easier for me to position on my arm; however, the "D-Link" feature paired with Velcro grip is still incorporated into these particular models' arm cuff design. I would have loved to have given this Omron 5 Series model BP742N a "5-star" rating; however, even on Omron's website indication is made that many things can have an affect on blood pressure readings and readings can vary as much as by some 20 points. I did a GOOGLE search for the term "Omron's advice for taking blood pressure readings" and one of the entries is entitled "How To Monitor Blood Pressure--Omron Healthcare." The 1st piece of advice is to find the right arm cuff size. Omron also advises not to measure within 30 minutes of: exercising, eating, smoking, drinking alcohol or bathing, and to sit quietly for about 5 minutes with both feet flat on the floor. In an effort to acquire knowledge about how to obtain the most accurate BP readings with this newer Omron 5 Series model BP742N I placed "several" phone calls to Omron Product Support and, in addition, to the above words of advice, I also learned NOT to sit on a cushioned surface when taking BP readings as this puts increased pressure on the blood flow in one's legs. Also, place the arm cuff on your left bare upper arm one inch above the bend of your elbow. Make sure that the tubing falls over the front center of your arm so that the sensor is correctly placed. There are images of this arm cuff mounting process on the arm cuff! Pull the end of the cuff so that it's evenly tight around your arm. It is also easy to view Online videos which Omron offers for those interested--on YouTube, Omronhealthcare.com, etc. I was told by Omron product support that ALL of their blood pressure monitors will provide similar readings; however, the more advanced models have increased functionality. Some of their more expensive models can interact with smart phones! This Omron BP742N has the option of being able to use an A/C power adapter (not included) instead of the 4 AA batteries; however, I was told by Omron product support representatives that one does not need to worry about weak batteries affecting the accuracy of readings as the Omron BP monitors will cease to operate if fresh batteries need to be installed. This unit will also do averaging of the last 3 readings over a period of 10 minutes I believe and it also has a "50" memory storage capability for 2 individuals (i.e., total of 100 readings!). It also has a time<>date feature so that you can see when your BP readings were taken. In closing, there is a 2 year warranty on this item I believe so please don't forget to engage in the easy Online registration process.
