Computer system ‘more accurate’ for ABPM

A study in the Journal Blood Pressure Monitoring says an interpretive computer system called Dabl is able to take more accurate ambulatory blood pressure management readings than those taken by a leading group of international hypertension experts.

The study, which was carried out by the Western General Hospital in Scotland, analysed the interpretation of numerous blood pressure readings take over a 24-hour period and concluded that human observers often bring an unacceptable level f variance to the interpretation of data.

The Dabl system uses blood pressure software that automatically interprets data from monitors to makes it accessible to GPs and pharmacists.

According to the Irish company, Dabl provides the only system that has an automatic interpretive analysis in accordance with the European Society of Hypertension guidelines.

The report claims: “This study provides evidence to show that observer variance in reporting ABPMs is common even among experts and that computer-generated interpretative reports of ABPM data improve the diagnostic decisions based on the data generated by 24-hour blood pressure recording.”

The study claims that the Dabl system removes human error, prevents diagnostic errors and assists doctors in treatment decisions.

Bill Rickard, managing director of Dabl, said: “It comes as no surprise that computers, in the correct environment, are more efficient than humans at processing large volumes of raw data.

“This study confirms that Dabl is an essential decision support tool for doctors which, will ensure accurate diagnosis, save valuable time and contribute to quality decision making.”

Rickard added: “Not having to wade through pages of raw data will give doctors more time to consider lifestyle and other factors that comprise the cardiovascular profile and to recommend appropriate treatments which will help to improve patient care and safety.”

Link

Computerised reporting improves the clinical use of ambulatory blood pressure measurement