General Information

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Stethoscopes

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Professional Sphygmomanometers

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Homecare Sphygmomanometers

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Thermometers

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Laryngoscopes

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Instruments and Accessories

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General Information

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After wearing my scope for awhile, the tubing became rigid. What caused this and is there anything I can do to restore its original pliability?

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Under certain conditions, the PVC tubing used in our ADSCOPES when exposed to atmospheric ozone combined with skin oils can become rigid. If you wear your scope around the neck, try not to let it come in contact with the skin. In addition, periodic treatment with a vinyl protector (such as Armor All) once a month may delay the process. Should the tubing in your ADSCOPE become rigid, return to ADC for complimentary warranty service.

My ADSOFT eartips occasionally come loose from the binaurals. Why does this happen, and what can I do to make them more secure?

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ADSOFT PVC eartips are equipped with a threaded insert. Periodically tighten the eartips to ensure security. You may apply teflon tape, or clear nail polish to the binaural thread to improve security without compromising scope performance or jeopardizing warranty coverage. Do not apply the adhesive to the eartips. Before using stethoscope, make sure glue has thoroughly dried.

How do I maximize my scope's acoustic performance?

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To maximize performance of your ADC scope, you want to optimize the seal from the scope's chestpiece to your ears. Any leakage or obstruction will impede performance. First, align the binaurals properly so that the eartips point towards the bridge of your nose. On PROSCOPE series scopes and the ADSCOPE 641, you will need to adjust the binaurals to align the eartips correctly. On ADSCOPE series scopes, the binaurals are pre-angled 15° forward for a snug fit. But you must make sure to position them correctly - eartips FORWARD. Next, adjust the binaural tension. Too loose and acoustic transmission will suffer. Too tight and the scope will not be comfortable.

          

To reduce the tension, grip the binaurals firmly using both hands with fingers at the center of the "Y" in the tubing, thumbs at each side with the tubing branches out. Flex binaurals gradually until the desired tension is obtained.

To increase the tension, grip the binaurals in the hand and squeeze the binaural tubes together gradually.

Please note that excessive adjustment of the spring tension could weaken the spring.

Select the eartips that are most comfortable and best seal the aural canal. ADC scopes come with at least two pairs of eartips. Many are equipped with three pairs. Finally, make sure that you maintain your scope in good working condition. Obstructions from dust or dirt in the binaurals will impede performance, while tubing cracks will permit acoustic leakage.

Why do some scopes have a single sided chestpiece, others a two sided, and still others detachable chestpiece fittings?

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Generally speaking, to attenuate certain frequencies. The flat side is equipped with a membrane that is generally referred to as the diaphragm side. The conical or bell shaped side is called the bell. Body sounds generally fall within a frequency range of 50 to 2000 Hz. The diaphragm side is designed to attenuate the lower frequence and accentuate higher frequencies within this range - from 500 to 1000 Hz. The bell size is designed for lower frequencies - from 50 to 500 Hz. Most diaphragm only scopes (ADC 660, 662 and 665 series) are designed for general assessment or blood pressure measurement. Combination scopes (those equipped with both a diaphragm and bell) are designed to provide a broader frequency response. In a typical combination scope, only one side of the chestpiece is "active" at a time. Rotating the chestpiece around its valve stem selects one side and "de-activates" the other. It should be noted that on better quality models there is little or no acoustic leakage from the "deactivated" side. ADC produces over a dozen different models of combination scopes with an MSRP from under $10 to nearly $250.

What is the advantage of a two-tube stethoscope?

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Two-tube stethoscopes, such as the ADSCOPE 600, 601, 602 and 641 (the 600-602 feature our two tube in one design, while the 641 actually has two separate tubes) provide better stereo separation allowing you to hear the subtle characteristics of heart sounds and murmurs more distinctly. The heavier tubing also filters out the distracting noise typical of a busy medical environment.

Which is better - short or long tubes?

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Laboratory tests have demonstrated that shorter tubing provides a better acoustic response. In reality most people do not have the hearing acuity to detect any performance impact from changes in tubing length unless there is a dramatic change in that length. In fact, the acoustic transmission of lower frequencies, with their longer wavelength, benefit slightly from increases in tubing length. Longer tubing tends to make the scope more convenient to use, but also adds a bit to its weight. Bottom line - tubing length is generally a matter of personal preference.

Which ADC stethoscope should I purchase?

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ADC makes dozens of stethoscopes - from institutional models with a MSRP of about $2.00 to a professional electronic model costing nearly $300. The model you should choose depends on the application and your budget. ( Click here to compare models online )

How do I select a professional stethoscope?

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First and foremost, select the model that best fits YOU. The better the fit, the better the sound transmission to your ear. Next, choose a scope that has the features you need within your budget. Make sure its covered by an extensive warranty program - ADSCOPES are covered from 1 year to Life, depending upon the model. If you need versatility, you may want to select a convertible model - a scope with interchangeable chestpiece fittings such as our ADSCOPE 641 (Sprague series), or ADSCOPE 601 (Convertible Cardiology). Stainless steel is stronger, and its extra mass tends to help eliminate extraneous acoustic artifacts. So, for best acoustic performance, choose one of our stainless models - 600, 601, 602, 603, 604, or 605. However, there is a weight/performance tradeoff and you might prefer a lighter weight model such as the 609 series in less critical applications. Better models tend to have a double tube configuration which provides better stereo separation. Our ADSCOPE 641 has two tubes. Our ADSCOPE 600, 601 and 602 series have a single tube with bi-lumen (two tubes in one) design. For blood pressure measurement, the ADSCOPE 609 series provides many of the design features of our more expensive models in a lightweight, affordable stethoscope. Institutional buyers generally choose from our PROSCOPE series (660, 662, 665, and 670 series) which provide excellent performance at market sensitive pricing. Because stethoscope selection is really a matter of personal choice, we recommend that you try a few models to determine the one that works best for you.

What makes an ADC stethoscope better than other brands?

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Five factors - Performance. Quality. Durability. Warranty. Value.

Performance: According to independent lab tests, ADC PROSCOPE and ADSCOPE stethoscopes perform as well, or better than comparable competitive models. Depending upon the model, they may include Multifrequency design, PVC diaphragm rims and bells, ADSOFT eartips, bilumen design internal spring binaurals and convertible chestpieces for unmatched versatility.

Quality: ADC stethoscopes are made from the finest materials - brass, aluminum, stainless steel and PVC, all manufactured to the highest tolerances. Final inspection, assembly and packaging is then performed in ADC's Hauppauge facility to ensure strict compliance to ADC's uncompromising standards.

Durability: ADSCOPES are made from the finest materials and designed to withstand the toughest use.

Warranty: Depending upon the model, ADC scopes are warranted from 1 year to Life.

Value: Despite providing superior materials and construction, performance and warranty coverage, ADC scopes are generally priced 20% to 40% less than some models and priced only a little more than those so called "imports".

Are there any standards governing performance of blood pressure instruments?

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All medical device manufacturers and most medical devices are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. (FDA) The FDA has accepted the sphygmomanometer standards established by the American National Standards Institute. ANSI SP10, sets performance standards for non-automated (aneroid & mercurial) sphygmomanoter as well as automated (electronic) sphygmomanometers.. You may obtain copies of these standards by contacting ANSI here or visit their website.

How do I know if my aneroid or mercurial sphyg is out of calibration?

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Aneroid sphygs utilize mechanical gears and a mechanical linkage which can wear out or be knocked out of calibration. ADC aneroids are designed to provide a visual indication of accuracy. Our aneroid will require re-calibration if the indicator needle is outside the oval at the bottom of the dial. Unfortunately, when the needle is inside the oval, you can't be absolutely sure that the gauge is in calibration, unless it is a brand new unit from a reputable manufacturer (that's because gauges can be tampered  with - some more easily than others). As such, it's a good idea to periodically test the gauge against a unit of known accuracy, or return the unit to ADC for complimentary testing. How often you should perform these accuracy tests depends on many factors, but in general, once a year should be sufficient.

Mercurial sphygs utilize gravity, and other than the mercury itself there are no moving parts. So, there is nothing to wear out. A properly designed mercury manometer will be in calibration as long as the meniscus (top of the mercury column) rests within 3mmHg of the zero point with no pressure applied (inflation system should be detached since it might contain residual air). Mercury units do require some maintenance to remain in tip-top shape. Since mercury will evaporate, a small amount might need to be added to the instrument from time to time. Additionally, mercury will oxidize leaving a residual gray deposit on the inside of the cartridge tube. This should be swabbed away using alcohol applied to a pipe cleaner. Once a year or so, the damping filters and kidskin diaphragm located in the top cap above the cartridge tube should be replaced. ADC provides self maintenance manuals with every mercury unit purchased. Of course, we will perform complimentary maintenance on any ADC mercurial manometer when returned postage paid to our repair facility.

Which is more accurate: mercurial or aneroid sphygs?

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By law, both instruments must initially be within 3mmHg of a reference standard. However, because aneroid gauges rely on gears and mechanical linkages, mercury instruments will likely REMAIN accurate for a longer period of time. However, there is a tradeoff. Mercury instruments are generally not as portable and necessitate the use of 999.9 pure elemental mercury which is being outlawed by more and more municipalities and states.

The term "certified" is printed on some aneroid dials. What does this mean?

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It depends on the manufacturer. In our case, it indicates that the gauge has been produced and tested to meet the U.S. Accuracy Standard of +/- 3 mmHg. This certification is our pledge and your guarantee for an accurate reading.

The tubing on the cuff occasionally comes loose from the palm- type gauge. What can I do to make it more secure?

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ADC's 804 series gauge uses a quick release luer slip connector designed to allow rapid selection of the appropriate cuff. To attach, firmly push and twist the bladder tube connector into the gauge air inlet. When properly attached, less than 1/16" of the connector should show and the tubing should remain secure even under the harshest conditions.

Why is it important to have latex-free products?

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Latex sensitivity is a serious problem for both patients and healthcare workers. It is estimated that 7% of the general population and up to 17% of healthcare workers are latex sensitive, with reactions ranging from mild skin irritation to anaphylactic shock.

ALL ADC stethoscopes and virtually ALL ADC products EXCEPT sphygmomanometers are 100% LATEX-FREE.

There are just three components on a sphygmomanometer that were traditionally made from latex - the inflation bladder (contained inside the cuff), the inflation bulb and the coiled tubing (used on some models). All other components of a blood pressure instrument are ALWAYS latex-free.

ADC listened to the emerging needs of the market and has produced a comprehensive line of latex-free sphygmomanometers and accessories. In our latex-free professional line, the bladder, bulb and coiled tubing are made from neoprene, a synthetic material with the performance characteristics of latex. To facilitate identification, these components are produced in a distinctive terracotta coloration. We produce over 200 different latex-free blood pressure instruments and replacement parts.

Do you have any Material Safety Data Sheets for your products?

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Yes. We offer MSDS sheets for our mercury blood pressure instruments. These are available upon request OR by clicking here.

Is cuff size important?

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Very. Incorrect sizing could lead to measurement error when the mis-sized cuff fails to properly compress the brachial artery.

Cuff size is determined by the size of the bladder, also known as the inflation bag. According to AHA and ANSI standards the bladder should measure at least 50% of the intended limb circumference in length. The bladder width should measure at least 40% of its length. The cuff itself should then be designed AND marked to encourage or even restrict use to the limb circumference established by its bladder. ADC manufacturers 6 standard series cuff sizes designed to accommodate limbs from about 3.9 in (10 cm) to 25.5 in (65.5 cm), all with overlapping ranges. Our Size Guide™ Marking System helps prevent mis-cuffing. Most manufacturers utilize a generic size naming system - such as newborn, adult, child, etc. Since there are no standards to define the specific limb range for a particular generic size, some manufacturer's, including ADC, also indicate the specific limb range in centimeters right on the cuff. ADC also produces single patient use (spu) cuffs in a neonatal series designed to accommodate limbs from 1.2 in to 15.6 in (3cm to 40cm).

What's so special about the ADCUFF™?

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ADCUFF™ is the trademarked name for ADC's line of professional blood pressure cuffs, inflation bladders, and SPU (single patient use) cuffs. The ADCUFF™ was carefully designed to balance the requirements of ANSI/AAMI SP10 and AHA recommendations while combining the real-world needs of our customers.

Bladders are designed to encircle a minimum of 50% of the maximum limb circumference for which they were intended in order to ensure proper compression of the brachial (or femoral) artery. Bladder width is no less than 40% of bladder length.

Bladders are made from either dip molded latex, or latex-free neoprene and are seamless in construction. Each is marked with our part number and its generic size to facilitate identification and re-order. They are produced in 6 standard sizes, with one or two tube configurations. We provide extra long 55cm tubing (reusable models) for convenience.

Reusable ADCUFF™s incorporate the following features, many of which are proprietary:

Fabricated from 210 denier nylon in up to 12 colors - durable but comfortable.

Sewn with 11 threads per inch.

Hook and loop adhesive designed to withstand a minimum of 30,000 open close cycles (many low priced imports use inferior adhesive that wears quickly)

Artery mark on both inside and outside of cuff properly indicate bladder midpoint in accordance with ANSI recommendations (many cuffs on the market have a mis-positioned or misleading two arrow artery mark)

Gauge hang tab to facilitate use with pocket aneroid (some competitive cuffs are designed for use ONLY with mercurial instruments)

Size Guide System™ marking system. Indicates applicable limb range and warns if larger or smaller cuff is needed.

Bladder flap secures bladder within cuff and prevents bulging during inflation, or separation from cuff when used with mobile or wall mounted instruments

"Property of" tag facilitates marking for better stock control.

Two year UNCONDITIONAL warranty.

What is the clinical advantage of ADC's Mullticuff kits?

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Incorrect cuff sizing can greatly affect the accuracy of blood pressure measurement. Too small a cuff will cause an overestimation of blood pressure, and too large a cuff an underestimation. Multicuff kits are blood pressure instruments that contain more than one cuff size. ADC's various multicuff kits contain from 3 to 5 cuffs (with limb ranges from 3.9 to 25.5 inches) packaged in a variety of carry cases and stands that allow rapid selection of the most appropriate cuff.

What about so called "adjustable gauges". How do they work?

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A few manufacturers produce so called "adjustable" gauges. These gauges permit the indicator needle to be re-set to the zero point using a conventional jeweler's screwdriver inserted into the air inlet at the base of the gauge. ANSI/AAMI SP10 prohibits the manufacture of any instrument with an adjustable dial except by use of a specialized tool. We hardly think a jeweler's screwdriver available from virtually any hardware store qualifies as a "specialized" tool.

Whether or not they are legal, we feel adjustable gauges can be dangerous! Although re-setting of the indicator needle to zero will occasionally re-calibrate a gauge, it often will not. And the only way to ensure proper calibration ONCE adjusted is to bench test the instrument at a variety of points on the dial against a unit of known accuracy. There is a strong tendency to skip this CRITICAL step when gauges are adjusted in the field since it is time consuming and inconvenient (not to mention tough to find a unit of known accuracy in the field). Since ADC provides free recalibration for a minimum of 15 years to as long as a lifetime, depending upon the model, we suggest you let us perform this complimentary service.

Most aneroid blood pressure instruments look alike. How can I tell the difference and why should I choose an ADC brand sphyg?

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It is often difficult to tell the difference between competing brands of blood pressure instruments. With retail prices from as little as $10 to nearly $100 for a simple pocket aneroid, and appearances so similar, it can be tempting to select the least expensive brands.

Today, most blood pressure instruments are completely manufactured in China or Indonesia by firms with no formal affiliation with their U.S. distributors. In fact, many U.S. importers change suppliers every six months in response to lower prices from competing foreign manufacturers. That results in products of questionable quality and virtually no consistency.

Only a handful of manufacturers still produce their products in the U.S.A. Components for ADC's blood pressure instruments are produced exclusively for ADC by some of the world's most experienced ISO 9000 subcontractors under long term contract. In addition, ADC employs a rigorous QC process using proprietary test equipment, prior to final assembly in the U.S.A. to ensure strict compliance to ANSI/AAMI SP10 standards OR better. ADC produces pocket aneroids with an MSRP from $20 to $60, palm and multicuff aneroids from $90 to $200, clock aneroids from $100 to $200, and mercury sphygs from $70 to $200. Each and every one subjected to dozens of inspections prior to final assembly in the U.S.A. A sphygmomanometer is both a vital instrument for the measurement of a critical vital sign and a long term investment. Choose the model that makes the most sense for your requirements and budget as much as you can afford. Then select the ADC model that best fits your needs.

How fast should I deflate my sphyg during measurement?

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The AHA recommends a deflation rate of 2 - 3mmHg per second. During routine measurement, the system is typically inflated to about 180mmHg and deflated to about 60mmHg to a range of 120mmHg (the actual range is determined by the patient's expected blood pressure). At a deflation rate of 2-3mmHg/sec, it should take 40 to 60 seconds to deflate the cuff correctly. Excessive deflation rates are one of the most common causes of measurement error - often distorting readings by 10mmHg to as much as 20mmHg. When the deflation rate is too quick, the observer's reaction time - much slower than the rapid deflation rate - may result in gross underestimation of blood pressure. On the other hand, because of a phenomenon known as mercury lag, excessive deflation COULD result in an overestimation of blood pressure when measured on a mercurial sphyg.

How important is size of the inside bore of the cartridge tube in mercurial blood pressure instruments?

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It is Critical. When the inside bore is too narrow two problems can result. Mercury lag and mercury separation. Mercury lag is the phenomenon that occurs when the air deflates from the cuff faster than the mercury column can respond. When the forces of friction (of the mercury against the inner walls of the cartridge tube) that prevent the mercury from dropping exceed the gravitational forces causing the mercury to drop you get mercury lag. That same friction can actually cause the column of liquid mercury to split - forcing an air pocket that will distort readings. This is known as mercury separation.

ANSI/AAMI SP10 requires that the inside bore of the cartridge tube be a minimum of 3.9mm in diameter. Believe it or not, the inside bore on the cartridge tube of many low cost imports is just 3.2mm - well below government standards. On the other hand, most ADC mercury instruments feature a cartridge tube with an inside bore of 5mm - more than 25% larger than government requirements. (The inside bore on the 922 series cartridge tube is 4.2mm.)

How accurate is my aneroid or mercurial blood pressure instrument?

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If new, the unit must be within 3mmHg when tested against a reference instrument in order to meet ANSI/AAMI SP10 standards. ADC's PROSPHYG series instruments will always meet or exceed these standards. ADC's DIAGNOSTIX series manometers exceed these standards by as much as 66%. ADC DIAGNOSTIX brand mercury manometers are guaranteed to be within 1mmHg over their full range, while the DIAGNOSTIX brand aneroid manometers are guaranteed within 2mmHg when NEW.

Although most low cost imports will meet the +/-3mmHg standards most of the time, the difference between ADC brand instruments and those low cost models is often how well they will hold up under real world use. ADC manometers are designed to withstand the rigors of YOUR job. Superior materials, old world craftsmanship, the pre-aging of our aneroid movements, and use of mercury cartridge tubes with 30% larger 5mm inside bores ensure that your instrument will provide dependable service day in - and day out. Simply put, they will generally stay accurate for a longer period of time! Guaranteed.

Is mercury dangerous?

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Yes and no. Some mercury compounds - mercury chemically bonded to other elements can be quite toxic. On the other hand, 99.99% pure elemental liquid mercury will not be absorbed within the system. In fact, if accidentally ingested it will pass. However, prolonged exposure to elemental mercury vapor is very dangerous.

ADC mercury blood pressure instruments contain less than 2 oz of elemental mercury and pose no measurable health risk. In addition, to reduce the risk of accidental exposure, our instruments are equipped with unbreakable PVC cartridge tubes, reservoir locks to secure the mercury within the reservoir during maintenance and transport, and the EZ-Tube system to allow safe access to damping filters.

Elemental mercury will bond instantly to gold jewelry (it was often used in the panning of gold). Therefore, all jewelry should be removed when assembling, or servicing mercury instruments or cleaning accidental spills. If exposed to mercury, gold jewelry should be brought to a reputable jeweler for proper cleaning.

Many states and municipalities have restricted or banned, in their entirety, the sale of products containing mercury including mercury sphygmomanometers.  The link below is a list of current ordinances.  Please contact your local EPA branch for guidance on restrictions that might exist in your state.

http://www.adctoday.com/images/PDF/Mercury%20Law%20Table.pdf

How can I test the accuracy of my aneroid manometer?

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A: The only way to be 100% sure is to connect the manometer in series to an instrument of known accuracy and test during deflation at a variety of pressures (i.e. 300, 260, 180, 120, 60, etc.) When testing your sphygmomanometer, it is important that you check the accuracy in accordance with national or international standards that may be applicable to your device. For devices manufactured and sold within the US, the ANSI/AAMI SP10 standard entitled Manual, electronic, or automated sphygmomanometers, is applicable. For devices sold in the European Union and other international destinations, the EN 1060-1 standard entitled Non-invasive sphygmomanometers, Part 1: General Requirements, and the EN 1060-2 standard entitled Non-invasive sphygmomanometers, Part 2: Supplementary requirements for mechanical sphygmomanometers, should be referred to. Click here to link to the section within our site that describes testing techniques in greater detail.

Why do the readings on my mercury blood pressure instrument sometimes read very high?

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Although properly designed mercurial instruments are required to provide a full pressure drop (300mmHg to 20mmHg with no back pressure) in 3 seconds, older instruments tend to slowdown due to build up of dust or other obstructions within the system. This slow down will produce a lag - the air will release from the cuff FASTER than the mercury can drop in the column. In addition, some manufacturers whose cartridge tubes have a narrow inside bore (generally less than the mandated 3.9mm dimension) will always suffer from some lag. This lag will generally have no impact on measurements obtained at the recommended deflation rate of 2-3mmHg/second. However, when the deflation rate is excessive, the lag can have a dramatic impact on accuracy resulting in an overestimation of pressure.

Why does the tubing and bulb on my blood pressure instrument sometimes turn white?

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The phenomenon, known as frosting is a chemical reaction caused by the exposure of latex to the ozone. Fluorescent lighting can exacerbate the problem. When properly cured during the manufacturing process latex should not frost. However, it can be difficult to determine optimal curing times which are dependent on ambient temperature, humidity, and the water content of the liquid latex. Although unsightly, frosting will not impact on the performance or durability of the latex components.

What do I do in the event of a mercury spill?

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Although unlikely to occur with an ADC DIAGNOSTIX mercury sphyg, it can happen. ADC mercury sphygs hold just 2 oz of 999.9 pure elemental mercury and can easily be contained with a mercury spill kit available through ADC or most laboratory and safety supply dealers. A mercury spill kit should be kept on the premises WHEREVER mercury instruments are used. Never use vacuums which may disperse mercury vapor. Always wear gloves and dispose of contained mercury in accordance with local regulations.

Why do the readings on my digital BP monitor vary?

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A variety of reasons. First of all, blood pressure itself is a dynamic rather than static vital sign. Both systolic and diastolic pressures can vary from 10mmHg to 20mmHg or more throughout the course of the day. BP is generally lower in the morning and increases throughout the day. Eating, drinking, smoking, exercise and even talking all influence blood pressure. Instrument repeatability will also result in measurement variance. As an example, if the instrument has a stated tolerance of 3% and you measured your blood pressure at the morning when it was 120/70 and the evening when it was 130/80, the instrument might read 115/68 for the morning read, and 135/83 for the evening read. The initial impression is that the pressure varied by nearly 20mmHg when in fact, part of the variance was due to normal fluctuations in BP, and in part was due the tolerances of the instrument.

For best results, you should measure your blood pressure at the same time each day, preferably first thing every morning. If time permits, take three readings, each 5 minutes apart. If any one reading looks out of line, discard it. Otherwise average the results and record the average of the three (or two if one was discarded). Doing this will smooth out the readings and produce more consistent and meaningful results. Our 6014, 6016 and 6017 monitors feature an average mode setting that will automatically display the average of 3 successive readings.

How do I know if my digital sphyg is accurate?

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ADC digital sphygs have a pressure sensor self test that is activated each time you power on the instrument. If the microprocessor detects anything wrong with either the pressure sensor or the chip that analyzes the readings, an error message will be displayed BEFORE measurement. If the unit beeps and displays 0, you can be confident in the instrument's accuracy.

Which is more accurate - a manual home blood pressure monitor, digital monitor with arm cuff, or wrist monitor?

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Tough question! When measured by a trained professional, following AHA recommendations for blood pressure measurement, a manual instrument will produce very accurate results. Today, home digital BP monitors are VERY accurate, but they do have limitations. Because the algorithms used to calculate blood pressure are based on a limited number of clinical observations, there are people for whom digital units simply will not work. Severely obese patients, those with advanced arthrosclerosis, severe diabetics, or those with a difficult to detect pulse are not good candidates for digital monitors. Wrist models, while the MOST convenient to use, and extremely portable, are often held either above or below heart level resulting in readings of questionable accuracy. All things considered, we recommend an arm or wrist based automatic blood pressure instrument.

Why do temperatures vary between measurement oral, rectal, or axillary sites?

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Core body temperature most closely approximates the temperature obtained through rectal measurement. Oral temperatures will generally run 1 degree lower than rectal temperatures. Axillary (under the arm) temperatures will generally run 1 degree below oral (2 below rectal). Remember, 98.6 is an average of the patient population. Your average body temperature might vary by up to 2 degrees from that.

What are the advantages of fiber optic laryngoscopes over those with standard illumination?

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There are two. Performance and safety. Fiber optic laryngoscopes provide a brighter, whiter light permitting better view and observation of true tissue color. Because the light source is contained in the battery handle, they are cooler reducing the risk of patient injury.

Will ADC laryngoscope blades attach to other handle brands? Can you use ADC handles with other brands of blades?

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The answer to both is a qualified yes! ADC blades and handles conform to ISO 7376-1 and ASTM F965. ADC blades and handles will be compatible with any manufacturer's brand that conforms to these standards. However, standard illumination components are not compatible with fiber optic components and visa-versa.

Which profile is the most popular, Macintosh or Miller?

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Depends on the application. EMS professionals seem to prefer Macintosh while Anesthesiologists tend to prefer Miller.

Do the ADC laryngoscope blades come sterilized?

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No, but they are able to be sterilized.

How can I sterilize my ADC laryngoscope blades?

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There are 2 methods by which you can sterilize your ADC laryngoscope blades, either the Steris or the STERRAD process.

• The Steris Process as developed by Steris Corporation, Mentor, Ohio, consists of a peroxyacetic acid active compound for the sterilization of medical devices. ADC laryngoscope blades have been successfully sterilized with this process that has also proven to be anti-corrosive. Use should be solely in compliance with all directions and warnings, which Steris Corporation recommends with their units.
• The STERRAD Process as developed by Advance Sterilization Products consists of hydrogen peroxide and low temperature gas plasma for a rapid inactivation of microorganisms. ADC standard laryngoscope blades have been successfully sterilized using this process. Use in compliance with STERRAD system processing directions and warnings as recommended for their units.

*Note: ADC laryngoscope blades do not come sterilized. The STERRAD process is NOT to be used with fiberoptic blades.  ADC validates that these processes will sterilize the blades

Which neurological hammer should I purchase?

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Depends upon the application. For basic reflex assessment, the Taylor hammer is the most popular. The pointed end of the handle can be used to elicit cutaneous reflexes, and the triangular rubber head is used for testing joint relexes and bone fractures. The Wartenberg Pinwheel tests nerve reactions as it glides across the skin. It is designed for evaluation of cutaneous sensory and pain perception. The Babinski Hammer is designed for testing reflexes and is equipped with a pointed needle in the handle and a rubber head for reflex reaction. The Buck Hammer is used for cutaneous sensation evaluation, testing reflexes, and measuring nerve sensitivity. The Buck Hammer also has a needle in its head, and a brush in its handle.

What do the different tuning fork frequencies test?

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Tuning forks are used to conduct hearing and neurological vibratory tests. The c128 and c256 forks are generally used for the neurological tests, while hearing tests are often conducted using the higher frequency forks.

What is the purpose of the weight on the C128 and C256 tuning forks?

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As the frequency decreases, the tuning fork's arms must be increased in length. In order to keep the size of the instrument manageable, weights are added to the c128 and c256 frequencies. Without them, these two models would have to be considerably larger.

What is the frequency in Hertz of each of the tuning forks?

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The model for each tuning fork represents the vibrational frequency measured in cycles per second (cps) or Hertz. For example, the C128 vibrates at 128 Hertz or 128 cycles per second.