What are medical devices?
Medical device is any article, instrument, apparatus or machine that is used in the prevention, diagnosis or treatment of illness or disease, or for detecting, measuring, restoring, correcting or modifying the structure or function of the body for some health purpose. Typically, the purpose of a medical device is not achieved by pharmacological, immunological or metabolic means.
A small medical practice typically uses a range of medical devices for patient care, diagnosis, and treatment. Here are some common types:
What are Medical Devices and Equipment?
Medical equipment includes devices that require regular calibration, safety checks, preventive maintenance, repairs, staff training, and proper disposal at end of life. Examples include:
- Blood pressure cuffs and thermometers
- Pulse oximeters and temperature monitors
- Tonometers
- Laboratory analyzers and supplies
- Devices for electrotherapy, nebulizers, and more
List of Common Medical Devices and Equipment
Diagnostic Equipment
- Blood pressure monitors (BP cuffs/sphygmomanometers)
- Thermometers (digital or infrared; avoid mercury)
- Stethoscopes
- Pulse oximeters (finger pulse ox)
- Otoscope and ophthalmoscope (for ear and eye exams)
- Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) machines
- Blood glucose meters (glucometers)
Treatment & Examination Tools
- Exam tables and chairs
- Medical exam lights
- Nebulizers (for breathing treatments)
- Automated external defibrillators (AEDs)
- Portable suction machines (for airway clearance)
Sterilization & Sanitation Equipment
- Autoclaves (for instrument sterilization)
- Ultrasonic cleaners (for pre-cleaning instruments)
- Hand sanitizer dispensers
Surgical & Procedural Instruments
- Scalpels and surgical scissors
- Forceps and clamps
- Syringes and injection supplies
Office & Administrative Equipment
- Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems (tablet or computer-based)
- Label printers (for prescriptions and patient records)
- Medical-grade refrigerators (for vaccines and medications)