PCA pump programming and patient history user interface

Abstract

Example systems, methods, and apparatus for on-screen parameter programming guidance based on user input data and patient history graphical display generation based on user input commands are disclosed herein. Example systems, methods, and apparatus are configured to determine upper and lower limits of parameters using a preloaded drug library, and correspondingly display a color map and text of different colors on a PCA pump user interface screen. In addition, example systems, methods, and apparatus are configured to generate a patient history map using real-time patient history data and display it on a user interface screen. The disclosed systems, methods, and devices prevent human programming errors by minimizing the need for broad user interactions with PCA pumps and for switching between programming screens. In addition, the disclosed systems, methods, and devices prevent human programming errors by displaying patient history in a single merge map.

Description

[0001] Priority claims and cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Indian Patent Application No. 202241076492 filed on December 28, 2022 and titled PCA PUMP PROGRAMMING AND PATIENT HISTORY USER INTERFACE, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Background Art

[0003] Patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) pumps are commonly used to administer intravenous pain medications. PCA pumps are programmed to deliver an infusion at a continuous, constant rate, or they can include PCA boluses. To administer an infusion, the user programs the PCA pump and learns the patient's treatment history. PCA pumps include multiple parameters that must be programmed by the user, each with certain acceptable ranges (upper and lower limits, with soft and hard limits). The parameters are interdependent, making programming more challenging and leading to programming errors, which can delay treatment delivery and cause patient discomfort. Currently, PCA pumps display a user interface for programming each parameter individually. However, users must switch between screens to program an infusion therapy because the single screen does not display other parameters or their relationships with other parameters. As a result, users spend a significant amount of time switching between screens until they are able to correctly program the parameters.

[0004] Relatedly, once infusion therapy begins, the user must be able to access the patient's treatment history (patient history) recorded in the PCA pump. The patient history includes six or seven parameters that the user reviews to make the best clinical decision at the patient's bedside. Currently, PCA pump interfaces display patient history on multiple screens and in a non-graphical format. In addition, current PCA pump interfaces only display patient history for a specific hour, but users often need patient history for 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours, and so on. Therefore, current PCA pump interfaces do not have the ability to display all patient history in one place, which makes programming more challenging and may lead to programming errors, which can delay the administration of therapy and cause patient discomfort.

[0005] Therefore, a need exists for a PCA pump interface that provides on-screen programming guidance for multiple related parameters and displays the patient's medical history in a graphical format on a single screen. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Disclosed herein are example systems, methods, and apparatus for on-screen parameter programming guidance based on user-entered data and generation of a graphical display of a patient history based on user-entered commands. The example systems, methods, and apparatus are configured to use a preloaded drug library to determine upper and lower limits for parameters and display a color map and text of different colors accordingly on a PCA pump user interface screen. Additionally, the example systems, methods, and apparatus are configured to use real-time patient history data to generate a patient history map and display it on the user interface screen. The disclosed systems, methods, and apparatus prevent human programming errors by minimizing the need for extensive user interaction with the PCA pump and the need to switch between programming screens. Furthermore, the disclosed systems, methods, and apparatus prevent human programming errors by displaying the patient history in a single, consolidated map. Thus, the disclosed systems, methods, and apparatus increase efficient infusion administration and prevent programming errors that could result in patient discomfort or injury.

[0007] In accordance with the disclosure herein and without limiting the scope of the invention in any way, in a first aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise specified, a PCA pump includes an actuator, a syringe holder, a display screen, a memory, and a processor. The memory stores instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive a user-selected infusion therapy type and a user-entered parameter value; determine a lower limit and an upper limit for the parameter type associated with the user-entered parameter value and the user-selected infusion therapy type; compare the user-entered parameter value to the lower limit and the upper limit of the parameter type; generate a graph on the display screen showing the lower limit and the upper limit of the parameter type in different colors; and generate text of the user-entered parameter value in different colors based on where the user-entered parameter value falls within the lower limit and the upper limit of the parameter type.

[0008] In a second aspect of the disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise stated, upper and lower limits of a parameter type include soft limits and hard limits.

[0009] In a third aspect of the disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless stated otherwise, the graph is a bar graph.

[0010] In a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise stated, different colors in the bar graph correspond to lower and upper limits for a parameter type.

[0011] In a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise stated, green corresponds to acceptable parameter values, yellow areas correspond to parameter values ​​that exceed the soft cap, and red areas correspond to parameter values ​​that exceed the hard cap.

[0012] In a sixth aspect of the disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise stated, the text is green if it is an acceptable parameter value, yellow if it is within the soft limit of the parameter type, and red if it is within the hard limit of the parameter type.

[0013] In a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise stated, the memory stores a drug library comprising drug entries having parameter upper and lower limits.

[0014] In an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise stated, a method for operating a PCA pump based on user input includes: selecting an infusion therapy type from a preloaded drug library displayed on a display screen; entering a parameter value; transmitting the selected infusion therapy type and the entered parameter value to a processor, wherein the processor communicates with a memory and determines a lower limit and an upper limit of the parameter type associated with the user-entered parameter value and the user-selected infusion therapy type; transmitting instructions from the memory to the processor for generating a lower limit and an upper limit graphic displayed on the display screen; comparing the user-entered parameter value with the instructions received by the processor; generating a graphical display on the display screen showing the lower limit and the upper limit of the parameter type in different colors; and generating text of different colors for the user-entered parameter value displayed on the screen based on the position where the user-entered parameter value falls within the lower limit and the upper limit of the parameter type.

[0015] In a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise stated, the preloaded drug library includes information on upper and lower limits of parameter types, including soft limits and hard limits.

[0016] In a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise stated, the graphical display is a bar graph.

[0017] In an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise stated, the bar graph has different colors corresponding to acceptable parameter values, soft limit parameter values, and hard limit parameter values.

[0018] In a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise stated, text is displayed in green if it is an acceptable parameter value, in yellow if it is within the soft limit of the parameter type, and in red if it is within the hard limit of the parameter type.

[0019] In a thirteenth aspect of the disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise stated, the processor adjusts the lower and upper limits of the first parameter type based on a user input of a second parameter type.

[0020] In a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise specified, a PCA pump comprises an actuator, a syringe holder, a display screen, a processor, and a memory storing instructions. The instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to receive a user-selected patient history graph command, retrieve patient history data, retrieve a patient history graph command, and generate a graph on the display screen showing the patient history data. The patient data includes infusion therapy intervals (1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours, and cumulative), loading dose (LD) & clinician bolus (CB) bolus, PCA bolus, programmed intermittent epidural bolus (PIEB), continuous infusion rate (ml / hr), and total volume (ml / hr). In the patient history graph, infusion therapy intervals (1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours, and cumulative) are displayed on one axis, and Loading Dose (LD) & Clinician Bolus (CB) Bolus, PCA Bolus, Programmed Intermittent Epidural Boluses (PIEB), Continuous infusion rate (ml / hr), and Total Volume (ml / hr) are displayed on the other axis.

[0021] In a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise stated, the memory stores patient history data, and the patient history data is time stamped.

[0022] In a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise stated, a method for operating a PCA pump based on user input comprises: selecting a patient history graph command displayed on a display screen; transmitting the command to a processor, wherein the processor communicates with a memory and retrieves patient history data; transmitting instructions from the memory to the processor to generate a patient history graphical display on the display screen; and generating a graphical display on the display screen showing the patient history data.

[0023] In a seventeenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise stated, the memory stores patient history data.

[0024] In an eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise stated, the patient history data is time stamped.

[0025] In a nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise stated, the patient history data includes infusion treatment intervals (1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours and cumulative), loading dose (LD) & clinician bolus (CB) bolus, patient controlled analgesia (PCA) bolus, programmed intermittent epidural bolus (PIEB), continuous infusion rate (ml / hr) and total volume (ml / hr).

[0026] In a twentieth aspect of the present disclosure, which may be combined with any other aspect listed herein unless otherwise indicated, infusion treatment intervals (1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours and cumulative) are displayed on one axis of the graphical display and loading dose (LD) & clinician bolus (CB) bolus, patient controlled analgesia (PCA) bolus, programmed intermittent epidural bolus (PIEB), continuous infusion rate (ml / hr) and total volume (ml / hr) are displayed on another axis of the graphical display.

[0027] In the twenty-first aspect of the present disclosure, in combination Figures 1 to 10B Any one or more of the disclosed structures, functions and alternatives may be combined with Figures 1 to 10B any other combination of any other structures, functions and alternatives disclosed in any one or more of the foregoing.

[0028] According to the present disclosure and the above aspects, it is therefore an advantage of the present disclosure to minimize user interaction with the PCA pump control system to minimize human error.

[0029] Another advantage of the present disclosure is providing a PCA pump user interface that visually assists the user during the programming process to ensure that the user-entered parameters are within lower and upper limits associated with the type of infusion therapy being administered and any correlations with other user-entered parameters.

[0030] Yet another advantage of the present disclosure is to provide a PCA pump user interface that generates and displays a real-time patient history graph to assist the user in bedside infusion therapy programming.

[0031] Additional features and advantages are described in, and will be apparent from, the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. The features and advantages described herein are not all-inclusive, and many additional features and advantages will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, particularly with respect to the drawings and description. Moreover, it is not necessary for any particular embodiment to have all of the advantages listed herein, and it is expressly contemplated that each advantageous embodiment is separately claimed. Furthermore, it should be noted that the language used in the specification is selected primarily for readability and instructional purposes, and not for the purpose of limiting the scope of the present subject matter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] Figure 1 is a system-level diagram of a PCA pump within a hospital information system according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 2 is an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure including Baxter A perspective view of an example PCA pump from Novum Pumps that may be included in Figure 1 within the hospital system.

[0034] Figure 3 According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 1 Diagram of the software components of the PCA pump that perform the on-screen guided operations.

[0035] Figure 4 According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 1 Diagram of the software components of the PCA pump performing the patient history operation.

[0036] Figure 5 is a diagram of a process for programming a guided pump control system based on on-screen parameters input by a user, according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 6 is a diagram of a pump control system process for generating a patient history graph based on user input according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 7 is a method for performing a Figure 1 Sample view of the user interface of the PCA pump display screen using the on-screen parameter programming wizard.

[0039] Figure 8 is a method for performing a Figure 1 Sample view of the user interface of the PCA pump display screen using the on-screen parameter programming wizard.

[0040] Figure 9is a method for performing a Figure 1 A sample view of the user interface of the patient history graph used within the display screen of a PCA pump.

[0041] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 A sample detailed view of the user interface of the patient history graph used within the display screen of a PCA pump. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Disclosed herein are methods, systems, and apparatus for providing a PCA pump user interface with on-screen parameter programming guidance and a patient history graph. The exemplary method, system, and apparatus are configured to display a color graph and text of varying colors on the PCA pump user interface screen based on the lower and upper limits established for a user-entered parameter. Furthermore, the exemplary method, system, and apparatus are configured to use real-time patient history data to generate and display the patient history graph on the PCA pump user interface. This minimizes user interaction with the PCA pump control system. For the on-screen parameter programming guidance, the user selects the medication being infused and enters the parameter value. The processor and memory in the PCA pump communicate this information to each other. The processor matches the user-selected medication with entries in a preloaded medication library. The entries in the preloaded medication library include information about the lower and upper limits of the user-entered parameter. The processor locates the relevant lower and upper limit graphic instructions and sends them to the processor. The processor executes the instructions received from the memory, monitors any changes in the user-entered parameter, displays a limit bar graph on the PCA pump screen, and changes the color of the text displaying the user-entered parameter value based on where the user-entered parameter value falls within the lower and upper limit parameter ranges. Therefore, when entering a given parameter type, the user does not need to switch between screens as the PCA pump interface provides visual cues to guide the user through programming.

[0043] To generate a patient history graph, the user selects the patient history command, and the processor and memory in the PCA pump communicate this information to each other. The processor retrieves the patient history and graph instructions from the memory and transfers them to the processor. The processor executes the instructions it receives from the memory, monitors any changes to the patient history, and generates a patient history graph on the PCA pump screen. Therefore, when programming a bedside PCA pump, the user does not need to switch between screens to understand previously administered therapies, as the patient history graph provides a summary of the therapy in a single screen.

[0044] Reference is made herein to memory. As disclosed herein, memory refers to a device that stores electronic data and / or instructions for immediate use by a processor and / or pump control system. Memory is capable of receiving and transmitting data.

[0045] Reference is made herein to a processor. As disclosed herein, a processor refers to a device that executes instructions stored by a memory. The memory receives and transmits data.

[0046] Reference is made herein to infusion. As disclosed herein, infusion refers to the placement of a fluid into the bloodstream intravenously through the use of a needle or catheter. The fluid can be a medication, a supplement, or a mixture thereof.

[0047] Reference is made herein to a drug library. As disclosed herein, a drug library refers to an indexed list of medications and supplements. Each entry contains the name of the substance (both scientific and brand names), important parameters such as maximum and minimum doses, concentration information, infusion rate, and whether the drug was administered with a PCA bolus. It should be noted that additional information may be included in entries in the drug library.

[0048] While the example methods, apparatus, and systems are disclosed herein as operating with a PCA pump, it should be understood that the methods, apparatus, and systems can operate with other pumps. For example, the methods, apparatus, and systems can provide on-screen parameter programming guidance and patient history graph generation in an infusion pump based on user-entered parameters and commands.

[0049] Medical environment example

[0050] Figure 1 is a system-level diagram of a PCA pump within a hospital information system 100. The example system 100 includes a PCA pump 125, a network 115, a gateway 110, and an electronic medical record ("EMR") server 105. The PCA pump 125 is capable of delivering intravenous infusion therapy to a patient 130 via one or more intravenous ("IV") line sets based on input entered by a user 120. The PCA pump 125 is connected to the network 115. Additionally, the gateway 110 and the EMR server 105 are also connected to the network 115. Thus, the PCA pump 125 is communicatively coupled to the gateway 110 and the EMR server 105 via the network 115. In some embodiments, multiple PCA pumps 125 are connected to the network 115, the gateway 110, and the EMR server 105. It is important to note that these connections can be wireless, such as via Bluetooth®. , or wired, via serial, Ethernet, CAN or USB connection.

[0051] The gateway 110 is configured to receive infusion therapy type data (e.g., medication name, syringe volume, and bolus volume (when applicable)) from the PCA pump 125 and route the data to the EMR server 124. In some embodiments, the gateway 110 is configured to convert the data from, for example, EXTCOM messages to HL7 messages. In other embodiments, the network 115 and the gateway 110 are omitted from the system 100.

[0052] The gateway 110 can also be configured to transmit operating parameters or prescription parameters to the PCA pump 125. For example, the gateway 110 can send an electronic prescription (or software update) to the PCA pump 125 at a predetermined time and / or when the PCA pump 125 is available to receive the prescription. In other examples, the PCA pump 125 can be configured to periodically poll the gateway 110 to determine whether an electronic prescription (or software update) is waiting to be downloaded to the pump.

[0053] Relatedly, the PCA pump 125 transmits the infusion therapy progress data to the network 110. The network 110 then converts the therapy progress data into a protocol for transmission to the gateway 110 via the network 115 via Ethernet. The gateway 110 may include, for example, Baxter enterprise Gateway. As such, gateway 110 may be configured to integrate with EMR server 105 or other hospital systems to facilitate transmission of infusion therapy progress data from PCA pump 125 to, for example, a hospital electronic medical record (“EMR”) associated with patient 130.

[0054] In one embodiment, the EMR server 105 is also communicatively coupled to a pharmacy server (not shown), which is configured to create and / or transmit a medication order corresponding to, for example, a prepared medication (not shown). The medication order includes an electronic record or entry that identifies the patient (e.g., a patient identifier) ​​and the infusion parameters for administration. The medication order is assigned a unique identifier. In some embodiments, the medication order can be printed on a label attached to a medication container that is fluidly coupled to the PCA pump 125. The medication order itself associates the patient identifier with the medication identifier. The EMR server 124 is configured to use the patient identifier in the medication order to store the medication order or otherwise associate the medication order with the patient's EMR.

[0055] In alternative embodiments, the system 100 may also include a clinician device (not shown; eg, a smartphone, tablet, laptop, workstation, etc.) so that the user 120 can monitor patient data.

[0056] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an example PCA pump 125. The infusion pump 125 shown is a Novum Novum IQ PCA pump. In this embodiment, PCA pump 125 includes a display 150 with an interface 145 and a keyboard 155 to enable a clinician to specify or program infusion therapy or graphical display commands. PCA pump 125 uses a motor connected to an actuator 170 to actuate a plunger 165 within a syringe 160.

[0057] The PCA pump 125 also includes memory 135 and a processor 140. Memory 135 stores one or more drug libraries, such as Dose IQ, which include program-specific parameter limits based on care area, dose change, change rate, drug name, concentration, patient age, patient weight, and so on. These limits are configured to ensure that received prescriptions or entered infusion therapies are within acceptable ranges and / or limits determined by the healthcare institution, physician, or clinician. The drug library also includes information on whether the infusion therapy includes a PCA bolus or is administered at a continuous constant rate without a PCA bolus. Memory 135 also stores patient history data, which may include, but is not limited to, tables for different infusion therapy intervals (1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours, and cumulative), loading dose (LD) & clinician bolus (CB) bolus, PCA bolus, programmed intermittent epidural bolus (PIEB), continuous infusion rate (ml / hr), and total volume (ml / hr). Memory 135 continuously stores real-time patient history data.

[0058] Processor 140 is configured to execute machine-readable instructions stored in memory 135. Execution of the machine-readable instructions by processor 140 causes PCA pump 125 to perform the operations described herein.

[0059] As previously described, the PCA pump 125 is connected to the network 115 ( Figure 1 ) connected to the gateway 110 ( Figure 1 ) and communicate with it. As also described above, the PCA pump 125 is configured to monitor the progress of the infusion therapy and periodically transmit the infusion therapy progress data (eg, medical device data) to the gateway 110 ( Figure 1 As disclosed herein, treatment progress data may include, for example, infusion rate, dose, total volume infused, time remaining in treatment, drug concentration, rate change, remaining volume in drug container, drug name, patient identifier, titration information, bolus information, care area identifier, timestamp when data was generated, warning conditions, alarm conditions, events, etc. The PCA pump 125 may be continuously, periodically (e.g., every 30 seconds, 1 minute, etc.), or at the gateway 110 ( Figure 1 ) to transfer data when requested.

[0060] In some embodiments, the PCA pump 125 may also be communicatively coupled to one or more physiological sensors. For example, the PCA pump 125 may be connected to a pulse oximetry sensor, a blood pressure cuff, an access disconnect device, and / or a weight scale. The first pump 125 may be configured to integrate or otherwise include data, such as from a pulse oximetry sensor, into the treatment progress data, or alternatively, transmit the pulse oximetry data separately to the gateway 110 ( Figure 1 Gateway 110 ( Figure 1 ) can then access the EMR server 105 ( Figure 1 ) to record this data in the patient's electronic medical record.

[0061] On-screen parameter programming guidance

[0062] As previously described, at the beginning of an infusion therapy protocol, the user enters the infusion therapy type (i.e., medication name) into the PCA pump 125. After the user enters the medication name into the PCA pump 125, they must program various parameters (i.e., PCA dose or lockout interval).

[0063] Figure 3 is Figure 1 Figure 200 illustrates the software components of a PCA pump that displays an on-screen parameter programming wizard based on user input related to a medication name initially entered by the user. As shown in the diagram in block 201, processor 140 first receives a medication name and parameter data (i.e., PCA dose or lockout interval) entered by the user. The parameter is received in the form of a value, such as a dose, and the medication name is received in the form of a unique identifier. Processor 140 then transmits data 215 containing the user-entered medication name unique identifier and parameter value to memory 135. Memory 135, in conjunction with processor 140, receives the unique identifier and searches a medication library for a matching medication library entry 225 with the user-entered unique identifier. More specifically, memory 135, in conjunction with processor 140, indexes its medication library and compares the medication library entry with the received medication or refill identifier.

[0064] When a match is found, processor 140 determines the lower and upper limits, including hard and soft limits, of the parameter entered by the user as it relates to the medication name 220 entered by the user. More specifically, processor 140 accesses the matching medication library entry and retrieves data regarding the upper and lower limits of the parameter entered by the user. Processor 140 then locates upper and lower limit graphic instructions 235 associated with the parameter entered by the user in memory 135. Memory 135, in conjunction with processor 140, then transmits the instructions to processor 240.

[0065] Processor 140 receives the instructions from the memory transfer and executes the instructions (block 245). To implement the instructions, the processor compares the parameter value entered by the user with the upper and lower limits it received in the instructions from the memory transfer. The processor does two things simultaneously: it generates a color limit bar graph for display on the user interface, and it also changes the color of the parameter value entered by the user on the interface to indicate whether the entered parameter value is within the parameter limits.

[0066] To generate a color limit bar graph, the processor receives instructions transmitted by the memory and generates a graph corresponding to the lower and upper limits of the parameter entered by the user. More specifically, the graph is, for example, a bar graph displayed horizontally at the bottom of the screen (see Figure 7 ), where there is a green area corresponding to an acceptable range of parameter values, a yellow area corresponding to parameter values ​​that exceed the soft upper limit of the drug, and a red area corresponding to parameter values ​​that exceed the hard upper limit of the drug.

[0067] At the same time, the processor compares the parameter value entered by the user with the limit range it received in the instruction transmitted from the memory and, if the value is within the acceptable range, displays the parameter value on the screen in green text. If the parameter value exceeds the soft upper limit, the processor displays the value entered in yellow text. If the parameter value exceeds the hard upper limit, the processor displays the value entered in red text. It should be noted that as the user changes the parameter value, the processor continues to compare the parameter value entered by the user. Thus, the processor dynamically changes the color of the parameter value text displayed on the screen to indicate where in the value range the user-entered parameter value is as it changes.

[0068] Figure 5 A diagram illustrates a process for programming a guided pump control system based on user-entered on-screen parameters. As shown, the user enters their desired medication name and parameter values, such as a PCA dose or lockout interval (block 405). The user does this by typing, for example, the medication name (infusion therapy type) and a numerical dose using the keyboard and on-screen display on the PCA pump.

[0069] The data corresponding to the user input, unique medication name and parameter value is then transferred to the processor (block 410).Once it reaches the processor, the processor transfers the user input data to the memory (block 415).

[0070] Upon arrival, the memory-integrated processor receives the user input data, locates the unique medication name identifier, and accesses its preloaded medication library to find a matching medication name entry. Upon locating a match, the memory-integrated processor retrieves data associated with the matching entry. The memory-integrated processor then determines the upper and lower limit graphical instructions associated with the parameter value entered by the user (block 420). To accomplish this, the memory-integrated processor retrieves data indicating the lower and upper parameter limits from the matching medication name entry (block 420). More specifically, the parameter lower and upper limits take the form of soft limits and hard limits. Soft limits refer to lower or upper limits set in the medication library and can be overridden by the user. On the other hand, hard limits refer to lower or upper limits set in the medication library and cannot be overridden by the user.

[0071] Upon determining the lower and upper bound parameters, the memory, in conjunction with the processor, retrieves and transmits the lower and upper bound graphics instructions to the processor (block 425 ).

[0072] The processor executes the lower and upper limit graphics instructions after receiving the instructions from the memory (block 430). More specifically, the processor generates a color limit bar graph, such as a bar graph displayed horizontally at the bottom of the screen (see Figure 7 ), where green areas correspond to acceptable parameter values, yellow areas correspond to parameter values ​​that exceed the soft upper limit, and red areas correspond to parameter values ​​that exceed the hard upper limit. Simultaneously, the processor compares the user-entered parameter value with the lower and upper limits it received from memory and displays the user-entered parameter value in different colors depending on where it falls within the limit range (block 440).

[0073] Throughout this time, the processor monitors the parameter values ​​entered by the user in two ways (block 435). First, when the user changes the value entered for a given parameter, it changes the text color of the given parameter. Additionally, if the user enters a new parameter that is different from the initially entered parameter value, the processor determines how (if at all) the newly entered parameter affects the lower and upper limits of the initially entered parameter and changes the text color of the parameter value accordingly.

[0074] Figure 7 Shown in Figure 1 FIG. 6 is a diagram of a user interface used in a display screen of a PCA pump. As shown, the user interface may display parameter values ​​entered by the user in green text 601 , yellow text 602 , or red text 603 .

[0075] like Figure 7 As shown, the on-screen parameter programming wizard user interface shows the name of the medication for the infusion therapy 610, the nursing area 605, and various command control buttons 660, such as dose or program clear. The interface also shows various parameters 645 that the user can enter when programming the PCA pump.

[0076] Notably, the user interface shows a bar graph 655 that corresponds to the lower and upper limits of a given parameter. As shown, the bar graph 655 includes a green segment 630, a yellow segment 635, and a red segment 640. Above each segment, there is a number 650 that represents the range of the parameter as it changes from one color to another. More importantly, as described above, the green portion corresponds to acceptable parameter values, the yellow portion corresponds to values ​​that exceed the parameter's soft upper limit, and the red portion corresponds to values ​​that exceed the parameter's hard upper limit.

[0077] Relatedly, as explained above, the user interface displays the parameter values ​​entered by the user in different colors based on where the values ​​fall within the lower and upper limits. For example, in one screen 601, a parameter 615 entered by the user is displayed in green text because it falls within the acceptable values ​​for the lower and upper limits. However, in another screen 602, a user-entered parameter 620 is displayed in yellow because it exceeds the soft limit of the given parameter. Finally, in another screen 603, a user-entered parameter 625 is displayed in red because it exceeds the hard limit of the given parameter. Furthermore, as is apparent from the various text colors 601, 602, and 603, the user interface provides visual cues to signal to the user whether their parameter input is within the safe lower and upper limits. As an additional visual aid, the user interface displays a bar graph 655 that also displays the acceptable lower and upper limits of the given parameter with colors and accompanying numbers. It should be noted that the colors and / or visual cues used can vary in different embodiments.

[0078] In this embodiment, the on-screen parameter programming guidance user interface also includes a screen where the second user can visually verify the programming parameters entered by the first user. Figure 8 FIGURE 701 shows a diagram of a user verification screen. The first screen 701 shows an overview of the programming parameters entered by the first user. More specifically, the screen shows the medication name 705, the parameter type 710, and the parameter value entered by the first user 720. As shown, the parameter value 720 is in the same format as above for Figure 7 The same manner as described is displayed in color. The first screen also includes a command button 715 to allow the second user to indicate that they are viewing the first user's programming.

[0079] The second screen 702 includes the same information as the first screen 701. However, the second screen includes a color banner 725 indicating that the second user is viewing previously programmed parameters. Additionally, the second screen 702 includes command buttons that allow the second user to correct / change the programmed parameters entered by the first user.

[0080] Thus, the on-screen parameter programming guidance in this user interface not only dynamically indicates, based on text color, whether a given user-entered parameter value is within the lower and upper limits of the medication being infused into the patient, but also takes into account the interrelationships of multiple programming parameters. Furthermore, the user is able to program the PCA pump with the help of the user interface color cues without having to switch between screens.

[0081] Patient History Chart

[0082] As previously described, throughout the infusion therapy regimen, the user monitors and adjusts the programmed parameters on the PCA pump 125. The programmed adjustments made by the user are dependent upon the user accessing and interpreting the patient history on the PCA pump.

[0083] Figure 4 is Figure 1 Figure 300 illustrates the software components of a PCA pump that performs operations 300 to display a patient's medical history based on user-input commands. As shown in the figure, processor 140 first receives a user-input command to display a patient history graph 301. For example, the user may enter the command by selecting the "Patient History" option on the PCA pump's keyboard. Processor 140 then sends a command to memory 315, in the form of a command to access patient data stored in memory during an infusion therapy regimen. It should be noted that patient history data is continuously collected and stored in memory by the PCA control system. As previously mentioned, patient history data may include, but is not limited to, information for different infusion therapy intervals (1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours, and cumulative), such as loading dose (LD) and clinician bolus (CB), PCA bolus, programmed intermittent epidural bolus (PIEB), continuous infusion rate (ml / hr), and total volume (ml / hr).

[0084] At this point, the memory 135 in conjunction with the processor 140 receives the command, searches the patient history, retrieves the patient history, and compiles the patient history in the table 320. The memory in conjunction with the processor then transmits the patient history and the chart generation instructions to the processor 325.

[0085] The processor 140 receives the instructions and patient history data transmitted from the memory and executes them. To implement the instructions, the processor generates a graphical color display of the patient history data, which is then transmitted and displayed on the PCA pump screen. This includes, for example, calculating and displaying trend lines based on the patient history received by the processor. More specifically, the graphic is, for example, a bar graph using various colors to represent different parameters and / or intervals (see Figure 9 ). Notably, the user is able to modify the specific patient history parameters displayed on the resulting graph. Additionally, the user can change the type of graph displayed on the PCA pump screen (i.e., horizontal or vertical).

[0086] Figure 6 A diagram of a pump control system process for displaying patient history data based on user input is shown. As shown in the figure, the user enters a command (block 505). The user does this by selecting, for example, a "Patient History" option on a keyboard and a screen display on a PCA pump.

[0087] The data corresponding to the user input (command) is then transmitted to the processor (block 510). Once it reaches the processor, the processor transmits the command to the memory (block 515).

[0088] Upon arrival, the memory in conjunction with the processor receives the command, locates the patient history, retrieves the patient history, and compiles the patient history in a table (block 520). Simultaneously, the memory in conjunction with the processor retrieves the map generation instructions and transmits them to the processor (block 520).

[0089] After receiving the patient history table and the graph generation instructions, the processor executes the graph generation instructions (block 520). More specifically, the processor generates a graphical color display using the data it received in the patient history table. The processor generates the graphical color display and then transmits and displays it on the PCA pump screen. In generating the graphical color display, the processor performs various dynamic operations. For example, the processor uses the patient history table to calculate a trend line, which may include running a linear regression using the data points to display on the PCA pump screen. Additionally, the processor continuously monitors the memory for any new incoming patient history table data and generates an updated graphical color display based on any new data. The processor also generates different graphical color displays based on user input, which may include changing the orientation of the graph and / or changing patient history parameters on the graph (see Figure 9 ).

[0090] Figure 9 Shown Figure 1 FIG. 805 is a diagram of a patient history graph in a display screen of a PCA pump of FIG. As can be seen, the patient history graph can be displayed in a variety of configurations 805, 810.

[0091] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B Shown Figure 1 A more detailed view of the patient history graph in the display screen of the PCA pump. Figure 10A As seen in FIG, the patient history graph 900 may include, in addition to various other parameters 910, the patient history for various time intervals 905.

[0092] In contrast, Figure 10B In FIG. 9 , the patient history graph 900 may include overlay information such as trend lines 915 over various time intervals 905 and other parameters 10. Additionally, as shown in FIG. Figure 10A and 10B As seen in the , the orientation of the patient history graph can vary. It should be noted that the color, line type, orientation and other visual elements can vary with Figure 10A and Figure 10B Different from those shown in .

[0093] Thus, the patient history graphical display on this user interface shows a complete overview of a given patient's infusion history, wherein the user is able to modify the patient history parameters displayed on the PCA pump. The user can then quickly assess the patient's therapy and make any modifications at the patient's bedside without having to switch between screens, thereby reducing the chance of programming errors that could cause patient discomfort.

[0094] in conclusion

[0095] It should be understood that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention and without diminishing its intended advantages. Therefore, such changes and modifications are intended to be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A PCA pump comprising: actuator; syringe holder; Display screen; processor; as well as a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receiving the infusion therapy type selected by the user and the parameter values ​​input by the user, receiving a lower limit and an upper limit for a parameter type associated with the user-entered parameter value and the user-selected infusion therapy type, comparing the parameter value input by the user with the lower limit and the upper limit of the parameter type, generating a graph on the display screen showing the lower limit and the upper limit of the parameter type in different colors, and Based on where the user-input parameter value falls within the lower limit and the upper limit of the parameter type, text of a different color is generated for the user-input parameter value.

2. The PCA pump according to claim 1, wherein: The upper limit and the lower limit of the parameter type include a soft limit and a hard limit.

3. The PCA pump according to claim 2, wherein: The graph is a bar graph.

4. The PCA pump according to claim 3, wherein: The different colors in the bar graph correspond to the lower limit and the upper limit of the parameter type.

5. The PCA pump according to claim 4, wherein: Green corresponds to acceptable parameter values, The yellow areas correspond to parameter values ​​that exceed the soft cap, and The red areas correspond to parameter values ​​that exceed the hard cap.

6. The PCA pump according to claim 2, wherein: If the text is an acceptable parameter value, the text is green. If the text is within the soft limits of the parameter type, the text is yellow, and If the text is within the hard limit for the parameter type, the text is red.

7. The pump according to claim 1, wherein The memory stores a drug library including drug entries having upper parameter limits and lower parameter limits.

8. A method for operating a PCA pump based on user input, comprising: selecting an infusion therapy type from a library of preloaded medications displayed on the display screen; Enter parameter values; transmitting the selected infusion therapy type and the entered parameter value to a processor, wherein the processor is in communication with the memory and determines a lower limit and an upper limit for the parameter type associated with the user-entered parameter value and the user-selected infusion therapy type; transferring instructions from the memory to the processor for generating a graphical display of a lower limit and an upper limit on the display screen; comparing the user input parameter value with the instruction received by the processor; generating a graphical display on the display screen showing the lower limit and the upper limit of the parameter type in different colors; and Based on where the user-entered parameter value falls within the lower limit and the upper limit of the parameter type, different colored text is generated for the user-entered parameter value displayed on the screen.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein The pre-loaded drug library includes information about upper and lower limits for parameter types, including soft limits and hard limits.

10. The method according to claim 8, wherein The graphical display is a bar graph.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein: The bar graph has different colors corresponding to acceptable parameter values, soft limit parameter values, and hard limit parameter values.

12. The method according to claim 8, wherein If the text is an acceptable parameter value, the text is displayed in green. If the text is within the soft limit for the parameter type, the text is displayed in yellow, and If the text is within the hard limit for the parameter type, the text is displayed in red.

13. The method according to claim 8, wherein The processor adjusts the lower and upper limits of the first parameter type based on the user input of the second parameter type.

14. A PCA pump comprising: actuator; syringe holder; Display screen; processor; as well as a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: Receive a patient history graph command selected by the user, Retrieve patient history data, Retrieve Patient History Chart command, and generating a graph showing the patient history data on the display screen, The patient data includes infusion treatment intervals (1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours and cumulative), loading dose (LD) & clinician bolus (CB) bolus, patient controlled analgesia (PCA) bolus, programmed intermittent epidural bolus (PIEB), continuous infusion rate (ml / hr) and total volume (ml / hr), and The infusion treatment intervals (1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours and cumulative) are shown on one axis, and loading dose (LD) & clinician bolus (CB) bolus, patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) bolus, programmed intermittent epidural bolus (PIEB), continuous infusion rate (ml / hr) and total volume (ml / hr) are shown on the other axis.

15. The PCA pump of claim 14, wherein: The memory stores the patient history data, and The patient history data is time stamped.

16. A method for operating a PCA pump based on user input, comprising: Selecting a patient history graph command displayed on the display screen; transmitting the command to a processor, wherein the processor communicates with a memory and retrieves patient history data; transferring instructions from the memory to the processor for generating a graphical display of a patient history on the display screen; and On the display screen, a graphical display is generated showing the patient history data.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein The memory stores patient history data.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein The patient history data is time stamped.

19. The method according to claim 16, wherein The patient history data included infusion therapy intervals (1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours, and cumulative), loading dose (LD) & clinician bolus (CB) bolus, patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) bolus, programmed intermittent epidural bolus (PIEB), continuous infusion rate (ml / hr), and total volume (ml / hr).

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein The infusion therapy intervals (1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours and cumulative) are displayed on one axis of the graphical display, and The loading dose (LD) & clinician bolus (CB) bolus, patient controlled analgesia (PCA) bolus, programmed intermittent epidural bolus (PIEB), continuous infusion rate (ml / hr) and total volume (ml / hr) are displayed on another axis of the graphical display.

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