A pilot study of radiotelemetry for continuous cardiopulmonary monitoring of patients at home

We have conducted a trial of a wireless device for continuous cardiopulmona ry monitoring. Its performance, user acceptance and safety were assessed fo r monitoring in the patient's home. The study included 20 patients: six wit h chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, six with chronic heart failure, se ven with atrial fibrillation and palpitations, and one with a snoring probl em. The system recorded the heart rate and respiratory rate, blood pressure , electrocardiogram and body temperature. The results were transmitted auto matically to a central monitoring station. The accuracy of the measurements was checked by a comparison system and also by conventional measurements p erformed by a nurse. The system was acceptable to patients and functioned s atisfactorily in the home. An important facet of home telemonitoring may tu rn out to be its greater reliability in collecting objective data.