Under Pressure
Level - UndergradMeasuring an individual’s blood pressure is a standard component of a physical exam. These measurements can be used to predict long-term health risks, assess risk for certain types of physical activities, and help manage many types of medical problems. The procedure screens for high blood pressure (hypertension), a major risk factor for life-threatening conditions such as stroke, kidney failure, and cardiovascular disease.
The safety of the current "gold standard" instrument used to measure blood pressure--the mercury-filled sphygmomanometer--however, is being called into question due to the environmental health risks associated with mercury. At the same time, medical experts fear that the mercury gauges may be replaced by less accurate devices without consideration for the health risks that could follow.1
Professor Benkeser has acquired four blood pressure monitoring devices for home use, well-known for their inaccuracies. Your group will develop a hypothesis for identifying a source of error, which contributes to their inaccuracy. You will then develop an experimental design to test that hypothesis.. Your hypothesis should be formed based on a thorough study of both the physiology behind blood pressure measurements and the sensor technology employed in your device. Your experimental study must be designed to use a sufficient number of human subjects necessary to produce statistically significant results.
For your study, . you have the option of sharing one of the departmental devices with another group or purchasing one from a local pharmacy (cost typically ranges from $40 - $60) for exclusive use by your group. If you choose the latter you are advised to check with Professor Benkeser before making the purchase.