How to choose the right multi-parameter monitor

How to choose the right multi-parameter monitor
A multi-parameter monitor is a medical device that monitors the vital signs of patients. Mainly used in intensive care, hospitalization, or emergency room. Generally speaking, the basic model is used to monitor heart activity (ECG), blood pressure (NIBP), respiration (RESP), blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) and body temperature (TEMP). The monitor displays the value of each parameter and also displays the curve over time. For some models, modules can be added to measure other parameters (ETCO2, CO2, pCO2, IBP, EEG, EMG, etc.). They have audible and visual alarms to alert medical staff to any risks related to the patient's condition. Some monitors are designed for veterinary use.

Which configuration should I choose when buying a multi-parameter monitor?
We need to consider the possible evolution of patient monitoring applications in different departments. Over time, these applications may prove to be sustainable or diversified.
Therefore, we can distinguish the following two situations:
Compact multi-parameter monitor with integrated data acquisition module. The parameters to be measured are fixed.
The modular multi-parameter monitor has an independent data acquisition module. Therefore the modules can be interchanged. The measured parameters may vary from situation to situation.
Depending on the scope of application, lightweight and portable modules should be prioritized for field intervention.

How to manage several multi-parameter monitors in one service?
The monitor can be connected to a central patient monitoring station. In this way, the medical team can have an overview of the parameters of all patients connected to the monitor. If a problem is observed during the monitoring process, the monitor will sound an alarm.
The central patient monitoring station is a powerful and effective tool. The main difference between them is the number of patients (beds) that can be monitored simultaneously. Some devices allow 48 or even 66 patients to be monitored simultaneously and displayed on several high-definition screens. Sometimes, signal analysis software, especially arrhythmia, can reduce false alarms without compromising patient safety.
Veterinary departments have special monitoring stations, while fetal monitoring has special monitoring stations. In the latter case, the central unit displays fetal and maternal parameters.

What are the options for multi-parameter monitors?
In addition, to monitor configuration, the following options should be considered:
Wireless data transmission: In a hospital environment, no connection line is an advantage, especially for dynamic monitoring. It limits the risks of infection and disconnection. However, the security of computer networks and transmitted data may be an issue. This kind of system may be hacked, which will not only cause the equipment to be hacked but also cause the entire hospital server to be hacked. . In recent years, the number of "ransomware", that is, cyber-attack software that sends ransomware requests to unlock the affected computers, has increased. Rejection may result in the theft of a large number of medical records.
Interoperability of measurement data: In the case of data from multiple monitoring modules, the system needs to be able to integrate, identify and manage all data.
Integrated defibrillator: This is very useful for immediate intervention in cardiac arrest. The monitor with an integrated defibrillator is used in the emergency room.
Touch screen: This has almost become indispensable in the use of monitoring systems.
Power supply: a battery-powered model. They are mainly used in the field (for example in emergency medicine) or as a backup in the event of a power failure.

Does the multi-parameter monitor have a specific application field?
There are two types:
Fetal and maternal monitor: used to measure the vital signs of pregnant women and their fetuses. This system can monitor the activities of the uterus and fetus, including the fetus's heart rate. They also have advanced maternal monitoring functions, including body temperature, blood oxygen saturation, electrocardiogram and non-invasive blood pressure measurement. This monitor provides a wide range of visualization functions, including color screens and auxiliary screens during labor. Some monitors also have a postpartum mode.
Anesthesia patient monitor: This monitor is compatible with the anesthesia gas analyzer. In addition to vital signs, they can also display information about the gas injected during surgery.

What are the precautions when installing and using the multi-parameter monitor?
When installing a multi-parameter monitor, you must first ensure that there is a power network that meets safety standards.
Avoid installing the monitor near a magnetic field, such as an MRI room. In addition, try to avoid bending or pulling the ECG cable, and ensure that no liquid enters the equipment during cleaning.
The use of equipment requires proper training, preferably by the manufacturer. Training is usually carried out when the equipment is put into use. Nurses who use this device can roughly analyze ECG waveforms if they are trained by doctors, but a more detailed analysis must be performed by qualified doctors.