Medical use of chart recorders involves monitoring multiple extremely valuable variables. Chart recorders are used and operated by doctors, nurses and caretakers to monitor vital signs and other unique biological attributes, such as respiration in an elderly or asthmatic patient. The functionality of these chart recorders must remain on par because any false or lost data is effectively fatal to those who are being monitored. Externally, traditional and paperless chart recorders are used to maintain temperature and humidity in locations like medication coolers/refrigerators - an equally significant task that also requires effective data measurement.
Digital data logging systems and software are almost exclusively used in the active portion of the medical field. Traditional chart recorders can take a longer time to display data and are not as efficient in their readability. Paperless data loggers are used because they solve the time-sensitivity issue and are typically easier to read via their direct user interface.
Despite its user-friendly nature, digital logging systems and software require some troubleshooting if the system exhibits issues. This ranges from seemingly inaccurate or inconsistent readings (i.e. vital signs appearing to be lower than what a nurse physically assesses). If the reasoning behind such inconsistencies is not easily found, a technician should promptly be called in to determine the cause – any true lapses in data should be immediately addressed.
Traditional chart recorders that are placed in temperature-controlled environments require similar active attention. If temperature fluctuations or abnormalities are detected, but are not immediately detectable to the user physically, a technician is needed to determine if the recorder is providing inaccurate data.