Vet monitoring assists veterinarians in making treatment decisions. The main function of a veterinary monitor is to oversee and record animals’ health, such as heart rate, temperature, and blood pressure, over long periods of time. A standard VET monitor will include 5-lead ECG (electrocardiograph), TEMP (temperature), NIBP (non-invasive blood pressure), pulse rate, and SpO2 (oxygen saturation). Comparatively, high-end models are capable of monitoring and recording non-standard or higher acuity parameters. Our 2021 Veterinary Monitor Buyer’s Guide 2021 will help you navigate your search and budget for a new veterinary monitor.
What Factors Play into a Veterinary Monitor’s Price?
There are multiple factors that influence the cost of veterinary monitors. The most prominent being the brand, monitor features, and higher acuity parameters. When you begin your monitor browsing, it is important to consider the following questions to ensure you purchase the correct monitor for your veterinary practice:
How will brand name affect the total cost?
What features are you looking for in your new monitor?
Will you need any non-standard or higher acuity parameters?
Brand
The brand you are purchasing is the next major thing to consider in your search for a new monitor. This is partially due to the immense differences in price between brands. For example, the starting price of an EDAN veterinary monitor can range from $1,700 to upwards of $3,700. Whereas a Mindray veterinary monitor usually ranges between $2,200 and $4,000.
Features
It is essential to consider what features are included with your veterinary monitor before purchasing. Standard parameters include ECG/RESP, SpO2, NIBP, TEMP, and pulse rate. Additional parameters such as sidestream or mainstream CO2 will increase the overall cost. If you are operating on a fixed budget it is extremely important to recognize that higher acuity monitors will vastly increase your total spending.
Non-Standard/Higher Acuity Parameters
Depending on what features you are looking for in your new vet monitor, you may want to consider additional parameters. These optional features will often vary depending on the device and brand. Some noteworthy options are thermal recording, VGA output, wall/mobile mounting, capnography, anesthesia monitoring, and 2-IBP. More often than not, these higher acuity parameters will cost extra. Considering what parameters you need will help shape your budget and lead to a more successful purchase.
In sum, remember to take the proper steps and precautions before purchasing a monitor. Take time to set a budget, compare brands, and consider what features your practice needs including any non-standard parameters. Taking these steps from our Veterinary Monitor Buyer’s Guide 2021and continuing your research will ensure that you will get the most out of your budget.
