Interface using 12-digit keypad for programming parameters in ambulatory blood pressure monitor

TL;DR: In this article, a user interface for directing the programming of operating parameters for patient blood pressure testing into and downloading blood pressure data from ambulatory patient monitoring units is presented, where the user interface operates on a system comprising a plurality of microprocessor based, ambulatory blood pressure measuring patient units, an office control unit, and a data processing center.

Abstract: A user interface for directing the programming of operating parameters for patient blood pressure testing into and downloading blood pressure data from ambulatory patient blood pressure monitoring units. The user interface operates on a system comprising a plurality of microprocessor based, ambulatory blood pressure measuring patient units, an office control unit, and a data processing center, typically accessed over telephone lines. An office control unit is used to program patient units with test regimens for specific patients. The control units are also used to download data from the patient units and to transfer the data, along with patient identifying data, to the central data processing facility. The office control unit includes local memory which stores various interface routines, a microprocessor for executing the routines, a 12-character keypad allowing input of integers and a display for displaying prompts to the user. Upon initial power up of the control unit, an operator using the control unit is prompted through a start up sequence and a menu selection sequence to carry out the desired functions of the system. All selections are made, and all operating parameters are entered, through a telephone like keypad. The display indicates to the user which parameter entry of which is called for and which menu items are available for selection. During transfer of data to the central processing facility, additional prompts may be given to the operator by voice over the telephone handset.