Synergy between engineering and medicine: metrological control and good practices in blood pressure measurement for students of the faculty of engineering and the faculty of health sciences of the Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira

Abstract

The exponential advance of biomedical sciences requires a multidisciplinary approach that transcends traditional boundaries. The convergence between engineering and medicine is emerging as an essential paradigm for driving innovation and improving the quality of life. Engineering, with its ability to design, build and optimize systems, provides crucial tools and methodologies for medicine. From the development of cutting-edge medical devices and the creation of intelligent prostheses, to the implementation of hospital information systems and the application of artificial intelligence in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, engineering has become an indispensable ally of medicine.

In this sense, an experience of appropriation of knowledge is presented, where it is essential to promote the training of professionals with a comprehensive vision of biomedical sciences, capable of working as a team and of translating scientific and technological advances into tangible benefits for the health and welfare of society. Collaboration between engineers and physicians not only drives technological innovation, but also promotes the humanization of medicine, by putting technology at the service of the patient and improving the quality of medical care. The aim is to disseminate and raise awareness among engineering and health sciences students about the importance of metrological control and good practices in blood pressure measurement.

Reliable blood pressure measurement is essential for the diagnosis and control of hypertension, one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide (SDG 3). This proposal demonstrates the importance of metrological control and good practices in blood pressure measurement, highlighting the need for calibrated equipment and trained personnel to ensure reliable diagnoses. The fundamentals of metrology applied to blood pressure measurement are presented, as well as the recommendations of the main international organizations. In addition, the relevance of education and training in this field for engineering and science students is discussed.

Arterial hypertension, known as the “silent killer,” affects millions of people worldwide and is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, stroke, and kidney disease (ODS 3). Accurate blood pressure measurement is essential for the diagnosis and control of this condition, but the quality of measurements can be compromised by a number of factors, such as lack of equipment calibration, use of inadequate techniques, and lack of staff training. In this context, blood pressure measurement underpins the reliability of measurements and, therefore, the quality of medical care. Metrology, as the science of measurements, provides the necessary tools and methods to ensure traceability and reliability of blood pressure measurements.