Measuring blood pressure using an automated sphygmomanometer

There has been increasing pressure to remove medical devices containing mercury from clinical areas, which is leading to the demise of the mercury sphygmomanometer. As a result, automated blood pressure devices have been embraced by clinicians for their convenience and ease of use. However, it is essential that clinicians are aware of their limitations and are able to select the correct sphygmomanometer dependent upon the clinical need. It is a recommendation of the Independent Advisory Group that auscultation, as a method of determining blood pressure, should continue to be taught to healthcare professionals. Nevertheless, the reality is that in most clinical areas the automated sphygmomanometer is readily available and appears to be the device of choice. Therefore, where treatment protocols are based on accurate blood pressure readings, the clinician must ensure that the equipment used is appropriate for that application.