Can a Pacemaker Cause Problems with the XCEL?

Taking a blood pressure measurement in a patient with a pacemaker is generally safe, as the XCEL uses a pneumatic cuff system and does not interact with the electrical or mechanical components of the pacemaker.

However, pacemakers can alter the shape of the measured waveform, which may affect the PWA assessment and produce variable readings. Caution is advised. Clinicians should consult with the patient's physician before proceeding.

Note: The SphygmoCor XCEL should not be used in patients with erratic, accelerated, or mechanically controlled irregular heart rhythms, including those with arrhythmias.