The Education department has created a collection of training videos specifically for ECP devices. These short videos are designed to assist users with proper operation of ECP equipment.
NCP Series Attaching the Plethysmograph
The plethysmograph, or “pleth”, is a sensor that is placed onto the patient’s finger to monitor arterial pressure. The pleth displays a pressure waveform that allows technicaians to monitor the peak systolic and diastolic pressures (Peak-to-Peak Ratio) and assess the inflation and deflation timing of the pressure cuffs. Technicians should monitor the arterial pressure waveform at all times. Attach the pleth with the fingernail diagram facing upward.
NOTE! The pleth can be sensitive to motion artifact. Steady the hand before assessing timing.
NCP Series Buttocks Wrap
Proper cuff sizing and wrap have a direct impact on therapeutic results. It is important to keep in mind that loose or ill fitting cuffs can lead to a loss of diastolic augmentation or skin breakdown.
Before wrapping the buttocks, make sure that the patient is centred on top of the cuff so that both hoses are mid-buttock level. The long thigh securement straps should be visible between the patient’s legs. First, secure the thin buttocks strap to the thin strip of Velcro.
Then attach the larger buttocks strap to the large strip of Velcro.
NOTE! Cuffs should fit tightly around the target muscle mass. When cuffs fit properly, you should not be able to stick more than one finger inside. Rewrap any cuff that appears to be loose.
NCP Series Calf Wrap
Proper cuff sizing and wrap have a direct impact on therapeutic results. It is important to keep in mind that loose or ill fitting cuffs can lead to a loss of diastolic augmentation or skin breakdown.
When wrapping the calves, make sure that the cuff is centered below the knee and above the ankle. If this is not possible, add padding when appropriate. Use the “two finger rule” as a guideline for cuff placement below the knee. Lastly, verify that the hose is placed in the middle of the calf. Adjust the position as necessary.
NOTE! Cuffs should fit tightly around the target muscle mass. When cuffs fit properly, you should not be able to stick more than one finger inside. Rewrap any cuff that appears to be loose.
NCP Series Cuff Wrapping
NCP Series - Thigh Wrap
Proper cuff sizing and wrap have a direct impact on therapeutic results. It is important to keep in mind that loose or ill fitting cuffs can lead to a loss of diastolic augmentation or skin breakdown.
When wrapping the thigh, make sure that the cuff is positioned on an angle as high into the groin as possible to protect the knee. Verify that the hose is placed in the middle of the thigh. Adjust the position as necessary. The two small attachment straps will be pulled up and attached to the buttocks cuff after it has been wrapped.
NOTE! Cuffs should fit tightly around the target muscle mass. When cuffs fit properly, you should not be able to stick more than one finger inside. Rewrap any cuff that appears to be loose.
NCP Series - Skin Prep & Lead Placement
Proper skin preparation and lead placement are essenial to the operation of the ECP device. If the ECG tracing is not clear, the device may not trigger properly or cause the alarm to sound. A good skin prep will enhance the operation of the ECP device and improve patient comfort.
You will need the following supplies:
– Electrodes
– Alcohol pads
– Scrub pads or sandpaper tape
NOTE! An effective prep removes dry skin, oils, and dirt from the skin. This reduce skin impedance, or resistance, to the ECG signal.