The original method of measuring blood pressure, as described
in 1906 by Dr Korotkoff, has stood the test of time.
However, the mercury sphygmomanometer we are familiar with, may be a thing of the past in the
not-so-distant future.
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Mercury sphygmomanometers – still the golden
standard in SA This is the basic measurement tool and is used by
most health professionals. A good stethoscope and technique is
important. The correct cuff size is necessary to give an accurate
reading. Used correctly, it is a very reliable and cost effective method of
taking blood pressure.
Although very safe for the patient in the clinical
setting, mercury is a toxic and bioaccumulable substance. Environmental
concerns have led to pressure to restrict the use of mercury, and mercury
sphygmomanometers have already been banned in some countries.
Aneroid sphygmomanometers In these
devices a different metal is used. Regular calibration is needed as the metal
age, else the readings could become inaccurate. Test the readings against a
mercury device from time to time. Good quality aneroid devices are available –
choose recognized brands.
Electronic measurement Electronic
measurement can be very user-friendly and accurate. That makes it a good
choice for home monitoring. Some also give a printed read-out that makes
recordkeeping easy. Latex-free cuffs are available that inflates and
deflates automatically. Very good quality devices are available locally. Get
professional advice before buying one, as they are not all equally reliable. It
has to be a validated device, and even then, the measurements must sometimes be
tested against a mercury sphygmomanometer. As with all digital devices, back-up
service is an important factor.
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