I’m sure many of us have put thought into our first-aid supplies and having not only those preps but the knowledge to treat those that become injured during a time when medical care might not be a phone call away. But have you thought the diagnostic equipment that is available now that can help you figure out what might be going on that’s not so apparent? With some research and training even the more complex items can be used effectively and understood.
Here are some thoughts (and equipment) I have, let me know what skills and items you might have that would add to this discussion.
Blood Pressure Monitor
Keeping a close eye on your blood pressure is key to your long-term health. High blood pressure (hypertension) is known as the “silent killer” due to the lack of obvious signs. Prolonged hypertension can lead to heart damage and an increased risk of stroke.
There are a wide variety of blood pressure monitoring devices out there from the classic manual inflation units with a stethoscope to automatic battery-powered systems that self-inflate (which is easier to use to take your own readings alone).
Heart Rhythm Monitor
These devices can help you diagnose a wide range of cardiac issues. The one that I have even has software built-in that helps to determine irregular rhythms. It has contacts on two sides that are either held with the hands or one hand and then placed against your left side chest, both ways for a quick 30 second test. It also comes with chest leads that can be attached for longer monitoring. Monitoring tests are saved to memory and can be printed by attaching to a computer.
These were handheld readings, the top ones being mine and the bottom a friend who has A-fib
You can see the better trace with the leads attached. NOTE: I could only get this to work with three leads and the lead color setup isn't what is typically seen on normal medical units.
Pulse Oximeter
Used to quickly determine the percentage of oxygen in the bloodstream. Will also give you pulse count in beats-per-minute. Useful for symptoms seen with COVID, pneumonia, congestive heart failure (CHF).
Blood Glucose Monitor
While most diabetics have monitoring tools others usually don’t and a testing unit might be a prudent addition to your medical supplies, especially if you might end up with extended family or friends in your care.
I hope this helps, please feel free to list any products you have experience with. I suppose I should add the disclaimer that, while I was an EMT for 10 years, seek proper medical advice for any symptoms you may have.
Here are some thoughts (and equipment) I have, let me know what skills and items you might have that would add to this discussion.
Blood Pressure Monitor
Keeping a close eye on your blood pressure is key to your long-term health. High blood pressure (hypertension) is known as the “silent killer” due to the lack of obvious signs. Prolonged hypertension can lead to heart damage and an increased risk of stroke.
There are a wide variety of blood pressure monitoring devices out there from the classic manual inflation units with a stethoscope to automatic battery-powered systems that self-inflate (which is easier to use to take your own readings alone).
Heart Rhythm Monitor
These devices can help you diagnose a wide range of cardiac issues. The one that I have even has software built-in that helps to determine irregular rhythms. It has contacts on two sides that are either held with the hands or one hand and then placed against your left side chest, both ways for a quick 30 second test. It also comes with chest leads that can be attached for longer monitoring. Monitoring tests are saved to memory and can be printed by attaching to a computer.
These were handheld readings, the top ones being mine and the bottom a friend who has A-fib
You can see the better trace with the leads attached. NOTE: I could only get this to work with three leads and the lead color setup isn't what is typically seen on normal medical units.
Pulse Oximeter
Used to quickly determine the percentage of oxygen in the bloodstream. Will also give you pulse count in beats-per-minute. Useful for symptoms seen with COVID, pneumonia, congestive heart failure (CHF).
Blood Glucose Monitor
While most diabetics have monitoring tools others usually don’t and a testing unit might be a prudent addition to your medical supplies, especially if you might end up with extended family or friends in your care.
I hope this helps, please feel free to list any products you have experience with. I suppose I should add the disclaimer that, while I was an EMT for 10 years, seek proper medical advice for any symptoms you may have.