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Understanding common RPM devices
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Devices for use with remote patient monitoring (RPM) allow medical professionals an option to monitor patients’ health and manage chronic diseases from a distance. These devices collect and provide or transmit data to healthcare providers, which can enable timely interventions and more personalized care. Below, we explore some common RPM devices and their applications in managing chronic conditions.
Weight scales
Weight scales are used to measure a patient’s body weight and can play a crucial role in tracking weight fluctuations that could signal potential health concerns. Certain chronic conditions, such as heart failure, can be tracked using weight scales, as weight gain may indicate fluid retention, a common sign. Similarly, regular weight monitoring is crucial for managing obesity and related conditions like diabetes. Additionally, fluctuations in weight can indicate fluid balance issues in patients with kidney disease.
Blood pressure monitors
Blood pressure monitors measure the force of blood against the walls of the arteries. These devices are typically essential for regularly monitoring and managing hypertension (high blood pressure), heart disease, and kidney disease.
Pulse oximeters
Pulse oximeters measure the oxygen saturation level in the blood and pulse rate. They are non-invasive and provide quick readings, making them an important tool for monitoring oxygen levels to help assess respiratory difficulties in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Pulse oximeters also help to ensure that oxygen levels remain stable in patients with asthma, and further can be a valuable device for those with heart conditions (as low oxygen levels can indicate worsening heart function).
Thermometers
Thermometers measure body temperature, an essential vital sign for indicating health issues like infections. Since patients with chronic conditions can be more susceptible to infections, the presence of a fever can be an indicator for need of intervention
Pedometers
Pedometers count the number of steps taken, helping to track physical activity levels. Encouraging and monitoring physical activity can be especially pertinent for patients with some conditions such as diabetes and who require blood sugar management, patients with cardiovascular disease where regular activity can help to maintain heart health and disease progression, and patients looking to track their activity levels to support weight loss and management plans.
Blood glucose meters
Blood glucose meters measure the concentration of glucose in the blood. They can assist with daily monitoring of insulin levels and dietary choices for patients with diabetes. Conducting regular checks can help to prevent the progression to diabetes through early intervention for those who may be prediabetic.
Remote patient monitoring devices play an important role in modern healthcare, particularly for managing chronic diseases. Weight scales, blood pressure monitors, pulse oximeters, thermometers, pedometers, and blood glucose meters provide valuable data that aids healthcare providers and care teams in monitoring symptoms so they can deliver timely and effective care. As RPM continues to evolve, it is poised to further enhance the way chronic diseases are managed, making healthcare more proactive and patient centric.
Vivify Health is a remote patient monitoring company that offers a powerful RPM software solution with integrated third-party biometric devices designed to help improve the efficiency and effectiveness of your disease management and post-acute care programs.
