A bedside monitor runs around the clock, so the wrong choice shows up quickly: false alarms, slow support and hidden add-on costs. Before you compare prices, use the questions below to compare suppliers on the things that actually affect daily use.
1. Which parameters are standard?
Confirm what is included in the base price. Most wards need ECG, SpO₂, NIBP, temperature and respiration, while ICU units may also need IBP or EtCO₂.
- List every parameter you need today
- Ask which ones are optional modules
- Check if modules can be added later without replacing the unit
Choose for the ward you run in three years, not just the one you have today.
2. How accurate and stable is the signal?
Ask for test reports, not only brochures. Signal stability during patient movement matters more than the headline accuracy figure.
3. Which certificates and registrations apply?
Requirements differ by market. A quick reference for the most common ones:
| Market | Typical requirement |
|---|---|
| European Union | CE under MDR |
| United States | FDA 510(k) |
| Global tenders | ISO 13485 factory certificate |
4. What does after-sales support include?
Ask about warranty length, spare parts availability and remote firmware updates. A supplier that trains your technicians will save far more than a small discount.
Warranty checklist
- Warranty period and what it covers
- Response time for technical questions
- Cost and lead time of spare partsTip: Request a sample unit before a bulk order. Two weeks of real use tells you more than any datasheet.
5. Can it connect to your systems?
Check for HL7 output, Wi-Fi and central-station compatibility so data flows into your HIS and PACS without manual entry.
6. What is the total cost of ownership?
Include accessories such as cuffs, probes and ECG cables, plus battery replacement. Ask for a price list of consumables together with the quotation.