Medical Devices
Health issues necessitate continuous monitoring to safeguard the well-being of individuals and to prevent serious complications. For instance, individuals with diabetes require frequent blood glucose measurements using glucose meters, while those experiencing high or low blood pressure must regularly check their readings with various blood pressure devices. Additionally, when a patient has a fever, it is crucial to consistently monitor their temperature. In this article, we will discuss the most important devices used for measuring temperature and blood pressure.
Blood Pressure Monitors
Digital Blood Pressure Monitor
This device features a digital display that shows both diastolic and systolic pressure readings. To use it, the designated cuff is placed on the arm, the power button is pressed, and the device will display the readings after a brief waiting period.
Mercury Sphygmomanometer
This manual device is highly accurate for blood pressure measurement. It consists of a tube containing mercury, which is connected to a cuff placed around the arm. A stethoscope is positioned underneath to listen for heartbeats as the cuff is inflated and deflated to obtain both diastolic and systolic pressure readings.
Non-liquid Manual Blood Pressure Monitor
Similar to the mercury sphygmomanometer, this manual device replaces mercury with a graduated dial that indicates blood pressure levels.
Temperature Measurement Devices
Digital Thermometer
The digital thermometer is an accurate tool for measuring body temperature, featuring a digital screen that displays the temperature after being placed for a specific duration. It can be used in various locations of the body, such as in the mouth or under the armpit. It is user-friendly, although it is not recommended for use on infants during their first months of life.
Tympanic Thermometer
This thermometer is designed to be used in the ear, positioned vertically against the eardrum. It is particularly suitable for infants, as it can be used while the child is asleep. However, it is essential to ensure that there are no obstructions or incorrect readings before use.
Mercury Thermometer
This thermometer consists of a slender, graduated tube containing mercury, which can be placed in the mouth or under the armpit. Temperature is read by observing the rise or fall of mercury in the tube; it expands with increased temperature and contracts with decreasing temperature. However, this type of thermometer is not preferred due to the significant health risks posed by mercury if the thermometer breaks and the substance comes into contact with the body.