Sphygnomanometers: Automatic vs Manual

Research Problem

The research problem is clearly stated in the introduction and various times during the literature review. While it is known that automatic sphygmomanometers are not as accurate when compared to the gold standard of manual sphygmomanometer during single blood pressure readings they are still being used a triage instruments in emergency departments (Dind, Short, Ekholm, & Holdgate, 2011, p. 526). Triage is an essential step in the emergency department and instruments used in triage need to be accurate. Little is known about the accuracy of automatic devices when assessing postural blood pressures. It is shown in this study that orthostatic hypotension is a direct link to what triage category the patient is assigned, which can affect variables such as wait time and care received, so accurate measurement of this is an important factor in the emergency setting (Dind et al., 2011, p. 531).

The research purpose is derived from the research problem. The purpose of this study which was clearly outlined in the introduction section of the paper, sought to determine if automatic blood pressure devices could measure orthostatic hypotension accurately in emergency settings. This purpose was accompanied by research objectives and a hypothesis that focused the study. The objectives in the study sought to find the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of the automatic devices, clinical and statistical significance in postural drops, and if magnitude influenced blood pressures readings (Dind et al., 2011, p. 527).The authors also predicted in their hypothesis that the automatic devices would be less accurate if the systolic blood pressures were not between 120-180 mmHg which is their...

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...t. Yet, since this was a pilot study more research in the area is needed to determine other factors discussed before suggestions are made and the study suggestions are implemented on a larger scale in hospitals. Nevertheless, triage nurses can use the information presented in the study to request manual blood pressure devices to use on patients outlined in the study who specifically need precise orthostatic hypotensive measurements.

Works Cited

Burns, N., & Grove, S. K. (2011). Understanding nursing research: building an evidence-based practice (5th ed.). Maryland Heights, MO: Elsevier/Saunders

Dind, A., Short, A., Ekholm, J., & Holdgate, A. (2011). The inaccuracy of automatic devices taking postural measurements in the emergency department. International Journal of Nursing Practice, 17, 525-533. doi: 10.1111/j.1440-172X.2011.01958.x