Vital Signs Monitors

Vital signs monitors are an efficient method for collecting accurate readings when evaluating patient health. Modern medicine relies on the data from vital monitors so medical staff can make decisions about a diagnosis and plan a course of treatment for their patients.

An informed purchase decision will ensure that the correct monitoring equipment is in your clinic, ER, surgery, hospital, or other medical facility. Clinicians need this information to make quick and accurate decisions. Quality patient care depends on doctors and nurses having accurate information at the right time.

Overall health and wellness can be quickly assessed by collecting a person’s vital signs. Vital signs specifically indicate what actions may need to be taken by medical personnel, whether collected during an annual physical exam, or at the scene of an accident. A person’s vital signs demonstrate how their body is performing at that moment. Occasionally, people will say they feel okay, especially in stressful situations, but their vital signs can tell an entirely different story. Vital signs are used as a crucial benchmark of the status of a patient’s health by doctors, nurses, first aiders, first responders, and paramedics.

Vital Monitor Buying Considerations

• Researching Vital Monitors
• What Needs to be Monitored and Why
• Vital Monitor Features and Technical Specifications
• Features of Basic Combined Monitors
• Typical Vital Signs Monitors in a Clinical Setting
• How to Maintain Vital Monitors
• Printing and Reporting Capabilities
• Purchase Criteria
• Vital Monitor Brands
• Accessories and Optional Configurations
• Vital Monitor Costs
• Where to Buy a Vital Monitor Machine

Researching Vital Monitors

The purchase of a vital monitor can be a frustrating experience. There are many makes and models to choose from depending on the intended purpose, budgetary concerns, as well as the preferences of experienced staff members.

• Reasons for purchasing a new vital signs monitor include:
• Replacement of end-of-life cycle equipment
• Expansion of medical facility to add beds
• Budget availability for existing beds for a higher percentage of monitors per patient
• Specific use, or multi-purpose equipment

The modern vital sign monitors available today have bright, visible displays for easy reading. Most are powered by AC and DC, and also include an option for battery power. A battery backup is an important feature in the case of a power outage, or for normal patient portability. Some vital sign monitors are  highly portable, include a rolling stand or can be mounted on the wall permanently. Most monitors have the ability to interface with your EHR systems for annotating real-time wave forms and vital signs directly into your patient records.

This Vital Monitor Buyer’s Guide is designed to help you make an informed decision about your next monitor purchase. Having the right equipment will improve patient care, reduce staff frustrations, and maximize available budgetary funds.

What Needs to be Monitored and Why

Each healthcare center focuses primarily on the type of medical services it provides. This focus will help determine which vital signs need to be monitored in the delivery of patient services. An ambulance will focus on emergency medicine and therefore may not carry equipment to perform some more detailed tests like pulse oximetry, but they will certainly take each patient’s pulse and respiration rate to assess the best way to support the short-term transport of the patient to the hospital.

Most hospitals have a wide variety of specialized monitors, as well as several more generalized units designed to move with patients, collect early diagnostic criteria, and record patient recovery.

Specialized hospitals or departments will have a greater percentage of specialized equipment in order to support multiple patients with similar medical conditions. For example, the ICU will have stationary units by each bedside, while the NICU will use fetal vital signs monitors for babies. This may seem obvious to some, but during the purchase process it is crucial that the purchasing department understand the exact use of the equipment, and not just focus on the budgetary concerns.

Vital Signs

These vital signs are typical of the information doctors, nurses, and emergency responders require in order to make the appropriate healthcare decisions for their patients:

1. Pulse: The first step in emergency medicine is to check the patient’s pulse. After initial assessments have been made, changes in pulse rates and the strength of the heart beats provide valuable information for patient care. 
2. Pulse Oximetry: Pulse oximetry is tested in order to determine exactly how much oxygen is in the blood. Damage to the brain and other organs can result from low oxygen levels in the bloodstream. A pulse oximeter also reads the pulse, as well as the blood oxygen levels. Practitioners can determine more aspects of heart health by using both measures together.
3. Blood Pressure: In a first responder situation, the blood pressure is often first recorded using a BP cuff (sphygmomanometer) and a stethoscope. This information helps the paramedic decide if a high level of monitoring is required during transport. Once the patient arrives at the hospital, the blood pressure will be assessed again, often in conjunction with an electronic monitor. This helps assess heart stress and how strongly the heart is beating. Blood loss can be indicated by low blood pressure readings, as well as indicate the patient may be in shock.
4. Non-Invasive Blood Pressure (NIBP): Non-invasive blood pressure monitor measures a patient’s blood pressure on a continuous basis. The electronic vital sign machines include non-invasive blood pressure cuffs to give a continual, accurate assessment of patient health.
5. Invasive Blood Pressure (IBP): Invasive blood pressure is a common technique used in ICU facilities. An arterial catheter is directly inserted in the patient’s body, which determines blood pressure from the inside. The procedure is usually only performed in specialty clinics or during surgery, and requires specialized medical training. This provides medical staff with detailed readings from the inside of the arteries.
6. Respiration: The rate of breathing and the difficulty with which a patient breathes is a clear indication of the patient’s overall health. Shallow breathing or excessively deep breaths have different meanings. First responders, doctors and nurses can use this data to determine the existence of underlying injuries and decide on a course of action.
7. Temperature: Infection and illness change the patient’s core body temperature. Regular monitoring of the body temperature helps provide insight to clinicians for diagnostics purposes, especially while watching the trends. As the patient’s temperature moves closer to normal body temperature, clinicians can be assured the medical treatment is working effectively.
8. Vital Sign Variability: Vital signs can change quickly and unexpectedly at times. Continuous monitoring reduces the chances of missed signals associated with clinical teamwork overloads or sporadic variability in the patient’s readings. Doctors and nurses are able to make proactive decisions to improve patient care, satisfaction, and overall outcomes.

Vital Monitor Features and Technical Specifications

The monitoring of vital signs is typically the first thing that happens to every patient upon entering a medical setting. Individual devices can be used to measure separate aspects of the patient’s health, but combination monitors are most frequently used. These monitors are especially preferred by doctors, nurses and other medical professionals in critical-care situations where vital signs can suddenly fluctuate.

The monitors record and store data to show the patient’s real-time health status. They use warning visuals and sounds to alert medical personnel of important changes.

Features of Basic Combined Monitors

Combined monitors are either intended for portable or fixed use, and typically include the following basic features:

• Large digital LED color display
• Printing capability option
• Measures and displays heart rates
• Blood pressure monitoring using non-invasive or invasive oscillometric methods
• Calculates mean arterial pressure
• EMR connectivity
• Monitors and records respiration rate
• Storage for data
• Dual Temperature
• Oxygen saturation via pulse oximetry SpO2

These standard features are available in all modern medical monitors. When the buyer requires more detailed customization, the purchasing decisions can become more complex.

Typical Vital Signs Monitors in a Clinical Setting

There are several types of vital sign monitors being used in the healthcare industry today. They range in capability, size, type of reports created and more. Choosing the appropriate monitor for the intended purpose will keep costs down, and patient satisfaction levels up.

1. General Vital Signs Monitors: For applications where the typical, basic patient information is all that is required, the Welch Allyn Connex Spot Vital Signs Monitor 7100 is a great monitor. The Connext 7100 vital signs monitor machine provides pulse oximetry, temperature and blood pressure readings. Touch screen monitors with minimal knobs are designed for efficient cleaning. Bright colors on screen make reading easy, improving workflow. The intuitive designs are helpful during orientation and training.
2. EEG and Vital Signs Monitors: The Schiller Tranquility II Monitor  specifically monitors blood pressure ranges, oxygen in the blood, heart rate, and strength. These are more commonly used in specialized heart clinics or for specific patients when they are complaining about chest pains.
3. EEG EKG NIBP Monitors: The Mortara Surveyor S19 Monitor is a combination machine designed to monitor heart patients who may require longer-term oversight, especially for those in critical condition.
4. Fetal Monitors - Vital Signs Monitor for Babies: Common in prenatal care facilities, the Wallach Fetal2EMR fetal monitor effectively monitors a single baby or twins. This device includes a built-in thermometer, printer, and data can be easily transferred via USB cable, USB flash drive, or Ethernet. Fetal heart rates are monitored using technology which simultaneously integrates electronic medical records in real time.

How to Maintain Vital Monitors

Regular maintenance of your vital monitor is required to ensure long-term operation and functionality. For devices used in the field, regular ongoing maintenance is crucial. There are a few simple steps that operators must take to maintain their equipment.

Additionally, scheduled professional service calls are recommended as a preventative measure. Each manufacturer will have different recommendations for their equipment. Please refer to your user manual for specific directions.

General Maintenance Recommendations:

• Conduct regular visual inspections.
• Clean and disinfect the monitor between uses. Never wet the monitor or immerse it in any fluid. Never allow water to enter into any of the connector ports.
• Temperature probes are to be cleaned with a cloth dampened with water or alcohol or other appropriate non-staining disinfectant.
• NIBP Hoses can be wiped with a moist damp cloth. Use a mild detergent solution.
• Batteries need to be conditioned every six months or more often, as required.
• Always remove batteries even for short time periods when the equipment is not in use.
• Stored Patient Data Memory may need to be cleared annually in some models. Check your user manual.
• Electrical safety tests should be performed annually.
• Before storing any monitor that has a printing feature, be sure there is paper in the printer.

Equipment that is appropriately maintained will last longer and be less likely to fail during use. Keep all vital signs monitors well maintained.

Printing and Reporting Capabilities

Historically, even very ill patients were not routinely monitored by a continuous connected system. Nursing assistants and technicians have been responsible for the collection of patient's vital sign data, as scheduled by their primary care or attending physician. Generally, the data was written by hand into the patient chart, or typed manually into a computer, which lead to transcription errors.

Connected Monitors

With today’s smart, connected, wireless vital signs monitors, this data links directly to the electronic medical records which eliminates errors completely. This technology allows medical facilities to become completely paperless.

When shifting to a paperless system, it is necessary to ensure the protection of patient privacy. The objectives with connected and wireless vital signs monitors are to eliminate errors while protecting patient data, and to streamline administrative and support processes.

With the automatic collection of patient data, this leaves additional time for medical staff to interact directly with patients, rather than having to perform basic clinical exams.

Vital signs monitor with printer

Despite the shift towards paperless systems, there are many situations when printing is required. Having the ability to print directly from vital monitor saves a lot of time. The printout is available immediately for the medical staff or patient to review.

Purchase Criteria

It is always important to keep in mind exactly how the machine is going to be used, and which vital signs will regularly be recorded. A hospital will have several vital signs monitors for different purposes. Some will be mobile and others will be fixed in position.

A larger clinic will have multiple vital monitors to assure the patient data they are collecting is accurate and managed efficiently. In general clinical settings, the ideal machine can function both as a stationary device or used on a rolling cart.

Vital signs monitor for ambulances need to be compact, mobile versions of the monitoring equipment.

Battery life is an important factor when considering which machines to purchase, especially if a portable device is needed. Battery backup power is important before and after surgery so the monitor can be moved along with the patient.

Vital Monitor Brands

USA Medical and Surgical Supplies offers a large selection of name brand surgical and medical supplies. Name brands of vital sign monitors are available such as:

• ADC
• GE Vitals Signs Monitor
• Mortara
• Schiller
• Welch Allyn vital signs monitor 3000 series
• Welch Allyn vital signs monitor 6000 series

These respected brands have an excellent reputation in the marketplace. By choosing the equipment that has the features you require, you can trust in any one of these manufacturers recommended by USA Medical and Surgical Supplies.

Accessories and Optional Configurations

Many connected electronic monitors are available in several configurations, designed to meet the specific needs of the patient and medical facility.

For example, the  ADC ADView 2 Modular Diagnostic Station base unit includes:

• Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
• Quickstart Guide
• Quick Reference Guide
• U.S. power cord
• Adult Plus and Large Adult Plus cuffs
• 10-foot length of tubing
• Mini-USB to USB Cable

There are 5 additional optional configurations.

1. Blood pressure base and temperature module (9005BPTO ADView 2)
2. Blood pressure base and ChipOx Nellcor-compatible SpO2 module (9005BPS: ADView 2)
3. Blood pressure base, temperature module plus ChipOx Nellcor compatible SpO2 module (9005BPSTO: ADView 2)
4. Blood pressure base and Masimo SET SpO2 module (9005BPSM)
5. Blood pressure base unit, temperature plus Masimo SET SpO2 modules (9005BPSMTO)

With the six different options (the base unit and five additional configurations), every clinic and hospital can determine the right monitor for their specific application and budget.

Another example of good configurations is the Welch Allyn Connex Spot Vital Signs 7100 series monitors. The Connex Spot Vital Signs 7100 series monitors begin with great features and then offer a variety of additional customization options. You can choose between a combination of thermometers, SpO2, and more. The customizable options of the Welch Allyn Vital Signs Monitors make them an excellent investment for hospitals and clinics alike.

Vital Signs Monitor Costs

When making a purchase decision on behalf of a medical facility, budgetary limitations require the buyer to maximize the value of every piece of equipment. Monitoring systems are necessary to provide quality patient care, improve staff workflow, and increase patient satisfaction.

Generally, the features of the monitor will dictate the price point. For example, a small, portable vital signs monitor like the  ADC ADView 2 Modular Diagnostic Station can be purchased for less than $700. In contrast, a powerful, customized wall unit such as the Mortara Surveyor S19 Patient Monitor-Touchscreen Color Display can run closer to $7,000.

Welch Allyn vital signs monitors range from less than $700 for a Welch Allyn Connex ProBP 3400 Digital Blood Pressure Device up to between $2,100 for the Welch Allyn Connex Spot Vital Signs Monitor 7100 base unit, depending on the configuration. USA Surgical and Medical Supplies offers discounts on these units, so you can be sure each device offers maximum value.

Where to Buy a Vital Monitor Machine

Vital signs monitors efficiently collect accurate data for evaluating patient health. Doctors, nurses, paramedics and other medical professionals all rely on reports from vital monitors. Decisions must be made quickly regarding a diagnosis and subsequent treatment.

Monitors come in many configurations for a variety of specific applications. Each hospital, clinic or ambulance service requires equipment for different purposes, and with unique budgetary concerns. Staff members often have personal preferences when it comes to brands or specific models.

The intended use of the equipment is the most important factor in the decision-making process. Hospitals often have several different models for specific purposes in each department. In this case, it is beneficial to choose a mix of mobile units and fixed monitors for maximum usability.

Larger clinics may only have a few portable units which ensure their patients’ data is collected accurately and managed efficiently. In more generalized clinical settings, monitoring machines are often used as both a stationary unit and on a rolling cart. Ambulances require the lightest and most compact mobile devices available.

The most efficient method of determining exactly which monitor will be most suitable for your location is to contact a specialist.  USA Medical and Surgical Supplies has experts available who know the details of each vital signs monitor, and their specific applications.

For more information or guidance in the purchasing process for vital monitors, please call 888-215-0718, or email us at  sales@usamedicalsurgical.com. We look forward to assisting you today.