There are advantages and disadvantages in using an aneroid monitor. The advantages may be as simple as :
1. Easy to carry from one patient to another. Very easily transported in the pocket of a nursing uniform or in the pocket of the white coat the physician .
Some of the disadvantages may be :
1. It can easily be damaged causing in sufficient blood pressure readings.
2. The aneroid monitor has a metal ring on the cuff. If the metal ring isn't present it makes putting the cuff on harder to secure.
3. The rubber ball used to pump the cuff up can become damaged and not inflate the cuff properly. This could result in losing accuracy in the blood pressure reading.
Many hospital's and doctor's offices have changed over to the digital blood pressure monitor. This has been found to provide a more accurate blood pressure reading. With the large numbers appearing on the screen , it makes reading the blood pressure more accurate. Some of the digital monitors give print outs of the blood pressure readings.
Advantages in the digital monitor are that :
1. If an error occurs in the blood pressure reading , it will let you know by the error alert indicator.
2. Inflation can be as simple as pushing the start button once the cuff is secure on the arm.
3. Deflation is done automatic.
Proper maintenance is required on blood pressure equipment. Accuracy is of the up most importance. Having the proper cuff size is important to provide the correct blood pressure reading. If you have to use a stethoscope , make sure it is one you can hear out of. The tubing affixed to the monitor can become twisted during the transporting from patient to patient . It is important to check the tubing for any leaks and cracks that may prevent accurate readings.
Every patient wants a good blood pressure report. 120/80 would be a nice goal to aim for. It is a good idea to rest around five minutes before having a blood pressure reading.
When it comes down to blood pressure equipment , whether it be for home use or in a doctor's office, it is best to have the equipment checked for accuracy.
