Why is the Blood Pressure Inflation Bulb Not Working?

Have you ever encountered issues with the inflation bulb on your manual blood pressure unit or aneroid sphygmomanometer? It can be frustrating when you are trying to get an accurate reading but the bulb just will not cooperate. Don't worry, you are not alone! Let's explore some common reasons why the inflation bulb may not be working properly and how you can troubleshoot the issue.

Check for Leaks. One of the most common reasons for a malfunctioning inflation bulb is a leak in the tubing or bulb itself. Inspect the bulb and tubing for any cracks, holes, or tears that may be causing air to escape. If you find any damage, it's time to replace the affected parts.

Remove Obstructions. There may be dust or debris build-up, so it is important to remove these obstructions. This may cause the valve to become clogged which doesn't allow the bulb to compress. Carefully remove any potential obstructions from the air valve and bulb.

Ensure Proper Connection. Another reason for an ineffective inflation bulb could be an improper connection between the bulb and the cuff. Make sure that the tubing is securely attached to both the bulb and the cuff to prevent any air from leaking out during inflation.

Check the Valve. The valve on the inflation bulb may also be a culprit for the issue. Ensure that the valve is functioning correctly and not stuck in the closed position. If the valve is not opening properly, it can prevent air from entering the cuff and inflating it to the desired pressure.

Replace the Bulb. If you have checked for leaks, ensured proper connections, removed obstructions, and inspected the valve without success, it may be time to replace the inflation bulb altogether. Over time, the bulb can wear out and lose its effectiveness, leading to inaccurate readings and difficulties in inflating the cuff.

If you have any questions or concerns then don't hesitate to email us at orders@bvmedical.com or call us at (888) 822-8293 to connect with one of our Customer Service Representatives. Where people can reach people.

Sources:

American Diagnostic Corporation. When I squeeze the bulb to inflate the blood pressure cuff, the bulb itself doesn’t compress. What is wrong? 2024. 

BV Medical. 2024.

Mishra, B., Sinha, N. D., Gidwani, H., Shukla, S. K., Kawatra, A., & Mehta, S. Equipment errors: a prevalent cause for fallacy in blood pressure recording - a point prevalence estimate from an Indian health university. Indian journal of community medicine : official publication of Indian Association of Preventive & Social Medicine, 38(1), 15–21. https://doi.org/10.4103/0970-0218.106622. 2013.