Objectives

The primary objective is to procure and deliver a single hand-held peripheral nerve block monitor and stimulator for use in operating theatres, emergency departments, and intensive care units. The procurement aims to enable accurate neuromuscular blockade monitoring and external/internal nerve localization during regional anaesthesia, while ensuring seamless clinical integration, comprehensive staff training, and long-term technical support.

Scope

The contract covers a one-off supply, delivery, installation, commissioning, and demonstration of one new nerve stimulator unit. Scope includes provision of a complete starter pack, user and service manuals, calibration/troubleshooting software, and a mandatory 24-month guarantee period. Suppliers must commit to supplying spare parts for ten years, provide a fully costed post-warranty maintenance agreement, and arrange loan units during repairs. Evaluation follows an 80/20 preference point system, allocating 20 points to companies with at least 51% black ownership. All pricing must be firm, inclusive of VAT, and valid for 180 days. Late submissions, expired products, or second-hand equipment are strictly excluded.

Technical Requirements

• Device must be microprocessor-controlled, handheld, fluid-resistant, lightweight, and compact.
• Powered by standard AA or PP3 batteries, featuring a low-battery indicator and automatic power shutdown to conserve energy.
• Electrical output: 0–80 mA constant current, monophasic square wave (0.1–0.5 ms pulse width).
• Supports stimulation protocols: single twitch, train of four, tetanus, post-tetanic count, and double burst.
• Integrated internal nerve locator with adjustable 0–5 mA output, 1–3 Hz frequency, and precise amplitude control.
• Compliant with IEC 60601-1/60601-1-2 medical electrical standards, CE certified, and fitted with a hospital-grade, colour-coded mains cable (minimum 3 metres).
• Equipped with an alphanumeric display, audible/visual pulse feedback, and easy-to-clean design.
• Must be the latest commercially available model; refurbished units are excluded.
• Requires compatibility with standard regional anaesthesia needles and silver/silver chloride electrodes. Acceleromyography capability is preferred.
• Unusual/Complicated Terms Explained: Neuromuscular Transmission (NMT) Blockade Monitoring refers to tracking muscle relaxation levels during surgery using specific electrical pulse patterns. Acceleromyography is an objective measurement method that uses an accelerometer to quantify muscle response, improving accuracy over subjective assessment. PCB-Level Training denotes advanced technical instruction enabling technicians to diagnose, calibrate, and repair printed circuit board components.

Skills Requirements

• Suppliers must maintain an established service and repair facility within KwaZulu-Natal, subject to institutional inspection.
• Technical personnel must be original equipment manufacturer (OEM) trained to perform calibration, maintenance, and PCB-level repairs.
• Ability to deliver comprehensive end-user training and formal competency certification for departmental health technology technicians.
• Capacity to provide rapid response (within 24 hours) for equipment malfunctions and supply loan units when necessary.
• Proficiency in managing long-term product lifecycle support, including spare parts logistics, software updates, and post-warranty service planning.
• Familiarity with South African medical device regulations, occupational health and safety standards, and radiation control requirements where applicable.