Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to procure a Cardiotocograph Twins Monitoring Machine capable of simultaneously monitoring and recording twin fetal heart rates and maternal uterine activity. The equipment must employ the latest technology, be user-friendly, robust, and suitable for heavy continuous operational use, ensuring accurate fetal and maternal monitoring to support obstetric care.

Scope

The scope encompasses the supply, delivery, installation, commissioning, and end-user training of a twin fetal heart rate and uterine activity monitoring system. The system must include necessary accessories such as transducers, straps, markers, and recording paper. It is intended for use across various hospital levels (district, regional, tertiary) within KwaZulu-Natal, ensuring compliance with national standards and safety regulations. The tender also covers optional accessories, maintenance, training, manuals, and compliance documentation.

Technical Requirements

• The monitor must support twin fetal heart rate monitoring with external ultrasound transducers, providing audio signals for each heartbeat.
• The system must monitor maternal uterine contractions via external transducers, with the ability to cross-verify twin monitoring and indicate when the same heart rate is recorded with different transducers.
• It must include a high-resolution multi-channel strip chart recorder capable of simultaneous trend plotting for twin fetal heart rates and uterine activity, with automatic time and date printing.
• The device should have a built-in display showing twin fetal heart rates, uterine activity values, and heartbeat indicators with user-adjustable volume.
• Accessories such as transducers, straps, remote event markers, recorder paper, ultrasound gel, and optional trolley or wall mounts must be supplied and included in the bid.
• The equipment must comply with international safety standards (IEC 60601-1, 60601-1-2), be CE certified, and operate off 220V ±10%, 50Hz mains supply with hospital-grade power cables.
• The transducers should be durable, repairable or sealed units, with cables at least 2.5 meters long, keyed connectors, and robustness against physical shocks.
• The system must include manuals, software, and training support, with provisions for future upgrades, spare parts, and maintenance.
• All equipment must meet specified quality standards, safety, and electromagnetic compatibility requirements.

Skills Requirements

• Technical expertise in obstetric monitoring equipment, including installation, calibration, and maintenance of fetal and uterine activity monitors.
• Trained biomedical technicians or engineers with manufacturer-certified training on the specific model offered.
• End-user training capacity to instruct hospital staff on device operation, calibration, troubleshooting, and basic repairs.
• Ability to provide ongoing technical support, including demonstration, servicing, and spare parts supply, within specified response times (e.g., within 24 hours).
• Knowledge of international safety standards, electrical safety, and electromagnetic compatibility for medical devices.
• Experience with hospital equipment procurement, installation, and compliance documentation.