2. Problem Statement
Nosocomial Infections (Staph, MRSA, VRE, and more) is defined as infections a
patient acquires from the hospital that they did not have when they entered. The
theory that has been proven through my research is that the introduction of a
touchless component can eliminate one of the transference mediums of these
infections.
3. Statement
In the United States new laws in the area of insurance reimbursements
of patients that acquire nosocomial infections can cause a financial
hemorrhage to healthcare in America.
4. Facts
Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports that nosocomial infections
(Hospital Acquired Infections-HAI) in hospitals alone results in $33
billion in excess medical costs every year and is rising.
5. Interactive Healthcare Designs
Interactive Healthcare Designs (IHD) mission is to create solutions to
reduce infections through the integration of innovative technology
solutions.
6. Senario
Patient monitors in ICU’s and other areas are recommended by
manufacturers not to wipe down the front bezels with alcohol based
solutions because the overlays where buttons for EKG, blood pressure,
temperatures can be damaged. The presence of infection exist because of
the previous patients in the same room.
7. Solution
The use of a Touchless Gestural Interface is needed, this will reduce
one of the transference mediums of nosocomial infections. If the
elimination of physical contact with medical equipment is achieved
then infection will be reduced.
8. The Prototype
The IHD1 is a touchless gestural module that connects to a bedside monitor
through a USB connection and is light enough to mount on the bottom of a
monitor. It’s light weight design will allow it to mounted with Velcro. The
following slides describe the physical external components.