Importance

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Abstract

The present invention relates to improved apparatus and improved methods for quickly and economically checking the functional performance of blood pressure monitoring systems of the hydraulic type, both prior to and during patient use of the system. More specifically, apparatus faults such as a faulty transducer, and the presence of gaseous bubbles, i.e. air, in the liquid column of such a system through which blood pressure variations of a patient are transmitted to the transducer, are detected and can be isolated as to location in the system by providing volume changing means for changing the volumetric size of a portion or all of the liquid volume containing capacity of the system by a predetermined amount, and indicating or sensing the change in liquid column pressure resulting from the predetermined change in the volumetric size of the liquid volume containing capacity of the system. In accordance with a more specific aspect of the invention, the liquid volume changing means is embodied in and forms a part of one of the liquid containing components of the system, such as the dome which is connected to the transducer, and is provided with a liquid containing reservoir or chamber which overlies and is open to the pressure responsive diaphragm of the transducer.

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First Claim