Try to relax and avoid talking while the test is carried out. You'll usually need to roll up your sleeves or remove any long-sleeved clothing, so the cuff can be placed around your upper arm. It's best to sit down with your back supported and legs uncrossed for the test. This usually consists of a stethoscope, arm cuff, pump and dial, although automatic devices that use sensors and have a digital display are also commonly used nowadays. A device called a sphygmomanometer will be used to measure your blood pressure.