It’s not that often that Meditech introduce a new ABPM. The last one, the ABPM-05 was introduced in 2007 the year the iPhone was launched. When they do it’s worth the wait.
There is a lot of thought that goes into the design and features customers really want in a new monitor. As well as good design it is important the technical elements are addressed so that the 30 year plus reputation for reliability and accuracy that Meditech have and customers from around the world expect, is maintained.
We’re proud that Meditech chose PMS Instruments and the UK as their first launch partner for the new ABPM-06 so what’s it really like to wear, use and operate?
First impressions are good. It’s got the same familiar look as the ABPM-05 which means it’s compact and light.
It uses the same size and type of wipeable cuffs which means users of the old ABPM-04 and ABPM-05 can use their existing cuffs interchanging between units. The cuffs are durable and easy to wipe clean which is important for patient hygiene.
One major improvement is the type of PC interface cable the new ABPM-06 is supplied with. The old ABPM-04 and ABPM-05 used either a serial interface or USB optoelectronic fibre optic cable which was unique to Meditech. Although repairable these old cables are expensive to replace or purchase new.
As customers frequently want to use their ABPM in more than one treatment room the new ABPM-06 is now supplied with a standard mini USB A mini to USB B PC cable. This resolves any potential cable comms issues as there is only one way the cable will go in.
Meditech have taken the wise decision to integrate the ABPM-06 into their popular CardioVisions analysis software rather than offer a completely new software platform. This means the look and feel of the software, programming, downloading and printing will be familiar to users of the old ABPM-04 and ABPM-05 with no new software to learn.
Programming the ABPM-06 takes seconds and key patient information like name, date of birth and ID is retained in the monitor so there is no doubt who has worn the monitor.
In the interests of customers I have worn a new ABPM-06 twice now and found the monitor comfortable and unobtrusive throughout.
I programmed the monitor to record every 30 minutes during the day and hourly during the night as recommended by the latest NICE guideline NG136.
Of the 40 readings taken over 24 hours all were successful with no errors. I was aware of the monitor going off at night but the new SleepWell® function added to the new AA grade algorithm meant the device wasn’t uncomfortable and the measurement inflation and deflation time was quick.
Downloading the results took seconds and the automatic text reporting, trend graph and presentation of key metrics like average daytime reading value are clear.
Feedback from new and existing customers who have purchased the ABPM-06 since we introduced it has been very positive. For a free demonstration, loan or for more information just call or email us.