Accumed Sphygmomanometer: The blood pressure cuff review 2024

BP cuff : What is sphygmomanometer - the blood pressure cuff

Table of Contents(toc)

Introduction

BP cuff or the Syhygmomanometer or commonly called BP cuff is a medical devide used to measure arterial blood pressure. This devide is generally wrapped around the arm of the person (as shown in image) and then BP is measured. They are also referred as noninvasive blood pressure cuff as well.

Types of BP cuff

1. Manual BP cuff

Manual BP cuff or manual sphygmomanometer refers to the blood pressure cuff that measures blood pressure with the help of stethoscope. The examner needs to listen to the pulse bruit heard in specific artery below the cuff attachment(usually brachial artery) to measure the BP(see picture).

Manual BP cuff

How does a steth work

2. Digital BP cuff or automatic BP cuff

These devives have a electronic motor as well as LCD display to present blood pressure automatically. The device when  commanded to measure BP starts up raising pressure in cuff and then gradually lowers it. The sensor in it senses the blood pressure and presents it in the display.

Digital BP cuff

Manual vs digital BP cuff

People usually prefer manual BP cuff over the digital one. But in reality digital is more accurate than manual because in digital the measurement depends upon the examiner factor as well. But for digital it is well programmed and sensor have low chance f missing the pressre obviously when used properly and device is in proper condition.

Stethoscope anatomy

Parts of BP cuff - Parts of sphygmomanometer

1. Strap or the Cuff
2. Manometer or the pressure gauze
3. Inflater or the bulb
4. Valve or the pressure control valve
5. Tubings
6. Arterial marking

1. Strap or the arm Cuff

2. Manometer , or  pressure gauze

3. Inflator or bulb

4. Valve or pressure control valve

5. Tubings

6. Arterial marking

Identify parts of blood pressure cuff below

How to wear steth

How does BP cuff work

BP cuff working in arm

Classification of blood pressure 

Read about heart attack or MI

• Systolic Blood Pressure: This is the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and pumps blood, representing the higher number in a blood pressure reading.
• Diastolic Blood Pressure: This measures the pressure in the arteries when the heart is resting between beats, indicating the lower number in a blood pressure reading.
• Normal Blood Pressure: Typically defined as a reading below 120/80 mmHg, indicating healthy arterial pressure without risk of cardiovascular issues.
• Pre-Hypertension: A blood pressure range of 120-139 systolic or 80-89 diastolic mmHg, suggesting an increased risk of developing hypertension.
• Grade 1 Hypertension: This is characterized by a blood pressure reading between 140-159 systolic or 90-99 diastolic mmHg, indicating the need for lifestyle changes and possible medical intervention.
• Grade 2 Hypertension: Defined as a more severe form of hypertension with readings of 160 mmHg or higher systolic or 100 mmHg or higher diastolic, often requiring medication to manage.
• Hypertensive Urgency: A situation where blood pressure is elevated (typically above 180/120 mmHg) but without acute symptoms or organ damage, necessitating prompt treatment to prevent complications.
• Hypertensive Emergency: This critical condition occurs when severely elevated blood pressure (over 180/120 mmHg) is accompanied by signs of organ damage, requiring immediate medical attention.

Read about hypertension and its management here: 

Best quality BP cuffs

Here is the list of different BP cuff manufacturers available Nepal which are noticeable. All of them might not be good and may not work as you expected so buy them only after good review or ask someone with experience. The seller might claim any of them to be best and original. But nobody sells the original stuff in Nepal and all of then are stolen brand from great PRC. 

Blood pressure cuff replacement parts

The availability of replacement parts for blood pressure cuff is one of the factors to determine which cuff to buy. So make sure you buy the one with easily available replacement parts. 

American heart association

Review of accumed BP cuff

Recently I bought an BP cuff from accumed in Kathmandu. And i have been using it on daily basis. Here's a summary of its review:

1. Built: 4/5
2. Looks: 3/5
3. Inflator: 4.5/5
4. Strap: 2/5
5. Manometer: 4/5
6. The adhesive: 4/5
7. Overall satisfaction: 3.6/5

10 Tips to buy good BP cuff

1. Consider your arm size:
    Choose a BP cuff that will fit comfortably around the upper arm, so that you get accurate readings.
2. Check compatibility of the cuff:
    If youre buying cuff for other device like monitor or digital meter make sure that the cuff is                 compatible with your blood pressure monitor or device.
3. Opt for adjustable cuffs:
    Look for cuffs with adjustable straps to accommodate different arm sizes and provide a secure fit.
4. Quality matters:
    Invest in a cuff made of durable materials for long-lasting use and accurate measurements.
5. Easy to use:
    Select a cuff with user-friendly features like clear markings and simple inflation/deflation mechanisms.
6. Consider cuff placement:
    Ensure the cuff aligns properly with your heart level for accurate readings.
Anatomy of stethoscope: know it
7. Check accuracy:
    Look for cuffs with validated accuracy, preferably approved by regulatory bodies like the FDA.
8. Read customer reviews:
    Check reviews from other buyers to gauge the cuff's reliability, ease of use, and accuracy.
9. Warranty and customer support:
    Opt for a cuff with a warranty and reliable customer support in case of any issues.
10. Budget-friendly options:
    Compare prices and features to find a quality cuff that fits your budget without compromising accuracy or comfort.

Conclusion and summary 

• Definition: The BP cuff, or sphygmomanometer, is a medical device used to measure arterial blood pressure, typically wrapped around the upper arm. It is a noninvasive tool.
  
  
• Types of BP Cuffs:

1. Manual BP Cuff: Uses a stethoscope to listen for pulse sounds and measure blood pressure.
2. Digital BP Cuff: Features an electronic motor and LCD display for automatic measurements, making it more accurate than manual versions.

• Components: Key parts of a BP cuff include the strap, manometer, inflator, valve, tubings, and arterial markings.
  
  
• Blood Pressure Classification: Blood pressure readings are categorized into several classifications, from normal to hypertensive emergencies.
  
  
• Quality Considerations: When purchasing a BP cuff, consider factors such as arm size compatibility, durability, ease of use, and availability of replacement parts.
  
  
• User Tips: Look for adjustable cuffs, validated accuracy, read customer reviews, ensure proper cuff placement, and check for warranty options.
  
  
• Recent Product Review: A review of an Accumed BP cuff highlighted a solid build and reliable inflator, but with a less satisfactory strap, resulting in an overall satisfaction rating of 3.6/5.
  

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