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Sphygmomanometers

Sphygmomanometers

A sphygmomanometer measures blood pressure manually, using an inflatable cuff, a gauge and a stethoscope to listen for the Korotkoff sounds. Manual measurement is still the reference method in many clinical situations, for example when an automatic monitor gives an unreliable reading in a patient with an irregular pulse such as atrial fibrillation. We stock aneroid and manual sphygmomanometers from Welch Allyn, Accoson, Bosch, A&D Medical, Timesco and Prestige.

Types of sphygmomanometer

  • Palm (hand-held) aneroid models such as the Welch Allyn DuraShock range are portable and suit home visits and community work. DuraShock gauges are designed to withstand drops.
  • Desk models such as the Accoson 6 inch aneroid have a large, easy-to-read dial for consulting rooms.
  • Wall and mobile stand models keep the gauge at eye level and the cuff to hand in clinics and wards.
  • Kits and bundles combine a sphygmomanometer with a stethoscope and a choice of cuffs.

Cuff size and accuracy

Using the wrong cuff size is one of the most common causes of an inaccurate reading. The cuff bladder should cover around 80% of the patient's arm circumference, so keep small adult, adult and large adult cuffs to hand. Aneroid gauges can drift over time, so check them regularly against a reference in line with the manufacturer's instructions and MHRA guidance on blood pressure measurement devices.

Guides

Related ranges

See all blood pressure monitors, including automatic models, and vital signs monitors.

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