Accuracy Assessment of the Dinamap ProCare 400 in Pregnancy and Preeclampsia

Abstract

Objective. To assess the accuracy of the Dinamap ProCare 400 in pregnancy and preeclampsia, according to the British Hypertension Society protocol. Methods. Ethical approval was obtained. Forty-five women were recruited at two large teaching hospitals. Nine sequential same arm measurements were taken from each woman alternating between the Dinamap and mercury sphygmomanometry. Results. The device achieved an A/A grade (pregnancy) and an A/B grade (preeclampsia). Mean difference (SD) were 1.1(5.8)/0.1(5.7) mmHg (pregnancy) and –0.5(5.4)/0.9(9.5) mmHg (preeclampsia) for systolic/diastolic. Conclusion. The Dinamap ProCare 400 is recommended for use in pregnancy and has good accuracy in preeclampsia, although caution is still advised.

Keywords:

• Validation
• Pregnancy
• Preeclampsia
• Blood pressure measurement
• British Hypertension Society protocol

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

We would like to thank the staff and patients of the antenatal wards and clinics at Groote Schuur Hospital and St Thomas' Hospital for their invaluable contribution to this study. GE Medical provided three devices on loan to be assessed according to the protocol as well as funding for one observer.

Declaration of Interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.