Investigation and related suggestions on the use of mercury thermometer, mercury sphygmomanometer, and their substitutes in 126 medical institutions in 7 provinces (districts)

Abstract:

ObjectiveTo investigate the application status of mercury thermometer, mercury sphygmomanometer, and their corresponding substitutes in 126 medical institutions in 7 provinces (districts), provide reference for making performance policy of The Minamata Convention on Mercury. MethodsA total of 126 tertiary, secondary, and township medical institutions in 7 provinces (districts) in the eastern, central, and western regions were selected; mercury thermometer, mercury sphygmomanometer, and their substitutes used in 2013-2016 were investigated. ResultsUp to March 1, 2016, 156 088 mercury thermometers were used by 126 medical institutions, utilization rate was 100.00%, the daily use of each bed was 0.11 piece; 13 576 mercury sphygmomanometers were used, utilization rate was 100.00%, daily use of each bed was 0.010 piece. 10 510 mercuryfree thermometers were being used, 40(31.75%), 50(39.68%), and 52(41.27%) medical institutions used mercuryfree thermometers in 2013, 2014, and 2015 respectively. 8 266 mercuryfree sphygmomanometers were being used, 85（67.46%）, 83（65.87%）, and 87(69.05%) medical institutions used mercuryfree sphygmomanometers in 2013, 2014, and 2015 respectively. ConclusionSome medical institutions have started to use a small amount of mercuryfree thermometer and mercuryfree sphygmomanometer; the performance policy of The Minamata Convention on Mercury should pay attention to raising awareness of the use of mercuryfree alternatives as well as providing policy and financial support.