How to Choose the Best ECG for Your Needs - SCHILLER

How to Choose the Best ECG for Your Needs

SCHILLER’s Range of ECG Devices

 

When deciding to invest in an electrocardiograph, the first step is to obtain one from a reliable, well-known, and reputable company. Whether you are getting an ECG for the first time or replacing an outdated device, there are several aspects you must consider to make a good choice. Here we’ll cover the most important points to keep in mind during the process. 

 

Identify Your Needs 

The best ECG for you is one that is accurate, reliable, and fits your specific needs. Consider the following questions: 

– What kind of test do you perform? (Resting ECGs, Rhythm ECGs, Spirometry, Stress Test) 

– What kind of patients do you attend? (Paediatric, adult, or both) 

– Do you work in different locations or offices? 

– Do you offer home services to your patients? 

If you perform a combination of tests, you need an electrocardiograph that can handle all these functions. Investing in extras to use the device in various modes can be more cost-effective than buying separate devices for each test. 

For those working with both adults and children, ensure the device has the technical specifications, such as a bandwidth that reaches at least 0.05 to 250 Hz, to acquire and analyze pediatric patients’ ECGs. 

If portability is important, consider powerful ECGs that are as practical as a tablet, offering reliable tests and easy transportability. 

 

Budget and Price-Quality Ratio

Choosing a device based solely on low cost does not guarantee savings. The key factors to consider include the quality and durability of the device, the availability of service and spare parts, and the manufacturer’s ability to innovate and adapt to new needs. 

Select an ECG that offers higher value than its cost. Consider intangible benefits such as available inventory, warranty, training, free installation, or free software updates. Confidence in the company’s post-sales support is also crucial.  

 

Technical Features 

Once you know what you need, focus on a device with the latest technology. Investing in modern, reliable, and accurate devices is worthwhile. Consider the following features: 

Interface: Does the electrocardiograph have a user-friendly interface? 

Leads: Is the ECG multichannel? Does it show at least 3 channels on screen and simultaneously acquire at least 12 leads? 

Screen: Is it big enough and in color? Does it display images or just symbols? Does it show lead placement and advise on low signal quality and/ or lead inversion? 

Connectivity: Does the ECG connect via Wi-Fi/LAN/Ethernet? Does it communicate with HIS/EMR systems and allow bidirectional communication? 

Report Printing: Can the ECG save to a USB stick or export tests in PDF format? Does it have a built-in multichannel printer? 

Memory: Can the device store reports? How many resting ECGs or rhythms can it store? 

Patient Information: Can you store patient data and input it using a barcode scanner or import it from your EMR? 

Safety: Does it have cybersecurity protocols for patient data protection and is it HIPAA compliant? 

 

Choosing an electrocardiograph should not be based on price alone. The best device is one that, besides being from a reliable company, fits your needs, reduces healthcare costs, simplifies workflow, and improves clinical outcomes.

 

 

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