Physical Observation Guide

To safely prescribe ADHD medication, we need up-to-date physical observations for your child prior to your medication reviews. Physical observation that we require are pulse, blood pressure, height and weight. These checks help us monitor how the medication is affecting their body, particularly their heart.

Please note: we cannot book a medication review appointment until physical observations have been sent to us, or an appointment with our Health Care Assistants has been arranged.

There are lots of  different ways you can get physical observations taken for your child:

Complete checks at home

You can take these measurements if you have:
• Bathroom scales (for weight)
• A measuring tape or height chart
• A portable blood pressure machine

These can be purchased from many stores or ordered online.

Library support

Alternatively, some libraries will allow you to borrow blood pressure machines which may be useful after your first medication appointment when we need more regular physical observations.

Library members can borrow these devices from:

Visit a pharmacy

Many pharmacies offer free blood pressure checks.

Other community settings

Several locations around the county have health stations where blood pressure checks can be completed.

Ask your GP surgery

Your GP practice may be able to help you complete these measurements. Please contact them directly to ask.

CAMHS

If you cannot get these observations in any of the ways listed above, please contact us and we can arrange an appointment with one of our Health Care Assistants.  Please contact us by phone or email:

Email: buckscamhsadhdclinic@oxfordhealth.nhs.uk
Phone: 01865 901 951 (Option 5, then option 4)

Page last reviewed: 1 July, 2026