Dear Editor,
Blood pressure monitors today are far removed from the common standard instrument of yesterday. Today just about every doctor or health caregiver you visit seems to have a different type of monitor with a stronger bias to the electronic type. Some of these new instruments come with all type of instructions which seem to be observed in the breach; some are affected by cell phones in close proximity. Whatever the case, you are simply given the reading which comes up on the monitor. The following article is instructive:
“Different blood pressure monitors provide different readings. The most common blood pressure monitor uses a column of mercury to gauge the blood pressure with a hand pump attached to the arm of the patient. When you pump this, the blood pressure monitor tightens on your arm. Readings taken by this device are usually accurate. “But a disadvantage with this type of mercury-based blood pressure monitor is that accidental spilling of mercury can cause various allergic reactions and illness.
“Even though many types of blood pressure monitors are available on the market, mercury-based pressure gauges are more dependable and widely used. But in a technology-driven society where electronic gadgets are exceedingly popular, mercury pressure devices are fast replaced by aneroid and electronic blood pressure monitors. The cuff that is used to attach the device to the arm is important, too. A narrow cuff gives high blood pressure reading, while a broader cuff gives a lower reading. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury. It represents the force of blood exerted on blood vessel walls.
“In order to ensure that these new devices provide accurate data, they should be calibrated and validated periodically. Calibration ensures that measurements start from zero on all occasions. It is important that you check the blood pressure monitor you use for accuracy.” (Source: http://EzineArticles.com/302393)
The Ministry of Health should seek to research these monitors and identify a suitable model which will inspire confidence in the minds of care-seekers.
Yours faithfully,
(Name and address provided)
