The vendor, however, worked quickly to determine the source of the problem and retrofitted every instrument with new, redesigned cuffs. Because the vendor was willing to take responsibility and communicate openly regarding the problem, the situation was corrected and staff once again found they could trust their aneroid sphygmomanometers. The investigator was very concerned that he would not be able to continue to participate in the study, and requested that exceptions be made. Because Hartford Hospital had incurred such a great expense related to the previous mercury spills related to these instruments, the industrial hygiene department was able to justify a complete switchover to mercury-free technology in the hospital. The investigator has agreed to use the aneroid technology for the time being.
Most alternatives are also faster and easier to use.
The following table shows the accuracy required by the ASTM standards for mercury in glass and electronic thermometers. Many thermometers read out to a smaller division than the accuracy of the thermometer itself. Contributed by Catherine Galligan. We seek contributions concerning all material management and contracting practices in health care that have environmental, health, or safety benefits. Please contact us if you have comments or questions, would like to submit material for the next issue, would like to subscribe or receive this electronically, or require an alternative format.