• Measure your blood pressure several times a day at the same time each day because blood pressures vary throughout the day.
• Get duplicate readings separated by two to three minutes.
• Before you measure blood pressure, sit quietly and comfortably for about five minutes with your legs uncrossed and your back supported by the chair.
• Rest your arm on a table or desk at the level of your heart.
• Don't measure your blood pressure immediately after waking up in the morning.
• Don't eat, exercise, smoke, or drink alcohol or caffeinated beverages for at least 30 minutes before taking your blood pressure.
• Use the same arm each time you check your blood pressure.

via yahoo

• The very first step is understanding what the term blood pressure means and its health implications.
• The next step is purchasing equipment.
• A typical traditional or manual blood pressure monitor (also called a sphygmomanometer) consists of four parts: An inflatable cuff attached by rubber tubing to a hollow rubber bulb, a gauge with millimeter markings, and an air release valve. 
• In addition to the blood pressure monitor you will also need a stethoscope.
• If you are monitoring your blood pressure closely try to take it at the same time each day, in the same position and using the same arm.
• When you are ready to take your blood pressure ensure that you are in a calm and quiet emotional condition. 
• Place the ear piece of the stethoscope in your ears and begin pumping the rubber bulb rapidly with a squeeze and release motion until no sound can be heard through the stethoscope.
• After you have successfully taken your blood pressure, wait two or three minutes and retake to ensure accuracy until you get familiar with the technique.

via essortment