Apparatus, system, and method for personalized preparation of a patient scheduled to undergo a medical procedure

Abstract

The invention relates to an apparatus (10), a system (100) and a method for personalized preparation of a patient scheduled to undergo a medical procedure. The apparatus (10) comprises an input (12) configured to obtain procedure information comprising information about the scheduled medical procedure and physiological information comprising information about a physiological state of the patient, a processor (14) configured to construct and execute a personalized preparation program for preparing the patient, and an output (16) configured to output a rendering unit signal to a rendering unit (30).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to devices, systems, and methods for personalized preparation (particularly psychological preparation) for patients scheduled to undergo medical procedures. Medical procedures can generally be any medical imaging procedure (e.g., medical scan), medical treatment procedure (e.g., radiotherapy procedure), or any other diagnostic or interventional procedure. Background Technology

[0002] Medical procedures such as medical image acquisition are often complex and daunting for patients. Anxiety can prolong the procedure, reduce patient compliance, may induce movement (leading to poorer images or results), and even trauma from healthcare can hinder further procedures or treatments. Therefore, the success of a procedure is often associated with the patient's cooperation or relaxation during the procedure: for example, in imaging procedures (radiological procedures, such as MRI or CT scans), the patient needs to lie quietly to follow instructions on how to position themselves, how to breathe, or cooperate in any other way.

[0003] The level of cooperation largely depends on the patient's understanding and awareness of what kind of cooperation he / she needs, typically including general knowledge of the procedure. The level of cooperation also depends on the patient's acceptance of the procedure itself and the cooperation being important to him / her personally. Finally, the level of cooperation also depends on the patient's tension or anxiety during the procedure, thus determining how well he / she can focus on the procedure and the requirements of cooperation.

[0004] Examples of procedures commonly considered to cause anxiety include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) imaging, X-ray imaging, and interventional procedures. Patient anxiety and lack of cooperation can increase the length of MRI examinations and reduce the quality of the acquired MRI images.

[0005] In many cases, patient information can be used to explain procedures, prepare for collaboration, and reduce anxiety. For example, routine practice in clinics is to inform patients of planned medical procedures. This information includes formal documentation about the procedure, risks, and potential changes. In some cases, this formal document will be signed by both the patient and physician. Additionally, patients are often given a leaflet or similar description of the general procedure for self-information. Furthermore, digital preparations or supplementary materials are becoming increasingly available. An example of general informational material is an online video of the procedure.

[0006] However, every patient is different and requires different levels of explanation, different reasons for cooperation, and different approaches to soothe them or reduce their anxiety. Skilled nurses or other members of the medical staff are generally able to talk to patients, assess their needs, and explain everything in a way that is appropriate for that patient. However, in most cases, the lack of availability of skilled nurses or similar personnel, and the lack of time available for nurses to fully explain procedures to patients in a personalized manner tailored to their needs, are problems that hinder optimal preparation. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to further improve the preparation of patients scheduled to undergo medical procedures. Simultaneously, medical staff such as nurses, care providers, or physicians should be freed from tasks associated with preparing patients for medical procedures.

[0008] In a first aspect of the invention, a device for personalized preparation of a patient scheduled to undergo a medical procedure is provided, the device comprising:

[0009] The input section is configured to obtain:

[0010] Process information, including information about the medical procedures being arranged; and

[0011] Physiological information, including information about the patient's physiological state (particularly about the patient's physiological responses during the execution of the preparation procedure (mentioned below);

[0012] A processor configured to build and execute a personalized preparation procedure for preparing the patient, including:

[0013] Construct an initial preparation procedure based on the obtained process information;

[0014] Perform the initial preparation procedure described above;

[0015] Obtain the physiological information, which indicates the patient's physiological response during the execution of the preparation procedure;

[0016] Psychological state information is determined based on the obtained physiological information, the psychological state information indicating the patient's psychological state during the execution of the preparation procedure; and

[0017] The preparation procedure is updated based on the determined mental state information, and a drawing unit signal is generated to control the drawing unit to draw visual and / or auditory information according to the execution of the preparation procedure; and / or

[0018] Based on the psychological state information, it is determined whether one or more aspects of the arranged medical procedure need to be adjusted, and a control signal is generated based on the determination, the control signal being used to control the control unit to adjust the one or more aspects; and

[0019] The output unit is configured to: output the drawing unit signal to the drawing unit; and output the control signal to the control unit if it is determined that one or more aspects of the medical process need to be adjusted.

[0020] In another aspect of the invention, a system for personalized preparation of patients scheduled to undergo medical procedures is proposed, the system comprising:

[0021] As presented in this article, there are devices used to prepare patients scheduled to undergo medical procedures; and

[0022] A drawing unit is configured to draw visual and / or auditory information based on a drawing unit signal obtained from the device.

[0023] In another aspect of the invention, a corresponding method is provided; a computer program including a program code module for causing the computer to perform the steps of the method disclosed herein when the computer program is executed on a computer; and a non-transient computer-readable recording medium storing a computer program product that causes the method disclosed herein to be executed when executed by a processor.

[0024] Preferred embodiments of the invention are defined in the dependent claims. It should be understood that the claimed methods, systems, computer programs, and media have preferred embodiments similar to and / or identical to the claimed devices, particularly those defined in the dependent claims and disclosed herein.

[0025] This invention is based on the idea of ​​providing an apparatus, system, and method that can prepare patients scheduled to undergo medical procedures in a more customized manner. The proposed solutions are flexible and adaptable to individual patient needs, allowing for optimal patient preparation for medical procedures such as MRI or CT scans, or other diagnostic procedures (such as ultrasound, X-ray, fluoroscopy, PET-CT, etc.) or interventional procedures (such as radiotherapy, proton therapy, IGT procedures, dentistry, vaccination, blood collection, etc.), or any other medical procedure that may be perceived as frightening or stressful by the patient. Generally, this invention is applicable to any medical procedure in which personal guidance (or in other words, patient preparation) can improve the outcome of the medical procedure.

[0026] Preparation procedures may include preparation and / or guiding materials to prepare the patient. For example, a preparation procedure may include a video or podcast explaining to the patient what will happen during his / her medical process. Similarly, a preparation procedure may include videos that provide prompts for behavior, guidance, reassurance, comfort talk, and / or rules of conduct during the scheduled medical process. However, interactive computer programs (e.g., games) are also contemplated as representing appropriate preparation procedures. Typically, preparation procedures are not required to be educational. Therefore, a preparation procedure may simply consist of an environmental experience (journey) accompanying the patient through the scheduled medical process, which includes, for example, soothing video and / or audio content.

[0027] Typically, a patient's physiological information (i.e., the patient's physiological data / vital parameters) is obtained during the information phase of the medical process (i.e., during the execution of the initial preparation procedure) to infer the patient's relevant characteristics during the process preparation period. This physiological information can then be used to infer psychological state information.

[0028] Preferably, the processor is configured to derive / determine (and classify) emotional valence (negative vs. positive) as mental state information. Optionally, mental states can be classified in a more granular manner, for example by including arousal (e.g., using a circumplex model of affect: see Posner, J., Russell, JA, & Peterson, BS (2005): The circumplex model of affect: An integrative approach to affective neuroscience, cognitive development, and psychopathology; Development and psychopathology, 17(3), 715-734).

[0029] Using psychological state information, the preparation procedure can be updated, and drawing unit signals can be generated to control the drawing unit to draw visual and / or auditory information according to the execution of the preparation procedure. As an alternative (or supplement) to updating the preparation procedure, it can be determined (based on psychological state information) whether one or more aspects of the arranged medical process need to be adjusted, and control signals can be generated (and output) based on said determination, said control signals for controlling the control unit to adjust one or more aspects.

[0030] The update preparation procedure is preferably executed in real time.

[0031] Typically, there are multiple ways to update / adjust, and thus (further) personalize the preparation process or the next step of the arranged medical procedure.

[0032] In cases where there are aspects of a medical procedure that cannot be changed (such as noise in an MR scan), negative patient reactions to the procedure or its components can be reduced by providing a preparatory procedure that offers a more detailed explanation of what will happen during the procedure. If the patient has the opportunity to replay information about the procedure in several potentially less alarming versions, he / she may become more familiar with the procedure. Similarly, the preparatory procedure can be adapted to provide recommendations for alternative methods; for example, the patient could be advised to wear earplugs in addition to earmuffs to suppress noise.

[0033] Typically, updating / adjusting preparation procedures can improve patient preparation because the patient's physiological responses during the execution of the preparation procedure (which includes the execution of the initial training procedure and the updated training procedure) will be taken into account to further tailor the preparation procedure to the specific patient in one or more ways.

[0034] It is assumed that improved and personalized preparation has increased patient cooperation and well-being, as patients will become more aware of what they need.

[0035] Therefore, providing excellent preparation, particularly knowledge about what will happen during the scheduled medical procedure, will reduce patient anxiety. The equipment and methods presented in this article allow patients to familiarize themselves with unpleasant aspects, which can improve cooperation, outcomes, and give patients a sense of control, as well as enable implicit retrospective evaluation.

[0036] However, if aspects of the planned medical process are perceived negatively and can be altered, the device can also (directly) adjust one or more of those aspects.

[0037] As an example, based on psychological state information (and process information), a processor can determine the procedures of an arranged medical process that need to be adjusted to ensure patient comfort. Therefore, the processor can generate control signals that instruct the control unit to adjust the procedures of the medical process as part of the overall medical workflow.

[0038] Similarly, the processor can determine whether a scheduled medical procedure needs to be rescheduled. Therefore, the processor can generate control signals to instruct the control unit to adjust the timing of the medical procedure as part of the overall medical process.

[0039] As another example, adjusting (i.e., regulating) the process plan as part of the arranged medical procedure may include adjusting the breath-holding cycle to a duration that the patient can manage well, for example.

[0040] In addition, environmental factors can be considered when designing equipment. For example, the lighting in the room can be tailored to the needs of a patient, such as those inferred from their psychological state.

[0041] Typically, aspects of a medical procedure include one or more of the following: the type of medical procedure, the duration and / or time of the medical procedure, the process of the medical procedure, one or more medical devices used in the medical procedure, the environment of the medical procedure (especially the room where the medical procedure is performed), the medications used in the medical procedure, the patient's requirements during the medical procedure (especially regarding the patient's posture and breathing before undergoing the medical procedure, travel time and / or waiting time), the requirements for taking medications and / or administering contrast agents, the personnel accompanying the patient during the scheduled medical procedure, and alternative approaches to better manage the medical procedure.

[0042] The described device and method allow for personalized preparation of medical procedures in an automated manner. Using the device and method of this invention, optimal procedure execution, optimal procedure outcomes, and optimal patient evaluation can be achieved, while requiring minimal staff procedures and training.

[0043] In the context of this application, the expressions "scheduled to be performed" and "scheduled to be experienced" should be interpreted broadly. Typically, someone (e.g., a care provider, nurse, physician, etc.) tells or plans which medical procedure a patient will undergo, thus scheduling the patient to experience the procedure, most commonly some time in advance. However, even if a patient is not scheduled for a medical procedure in advance but arrives at the emergency department and must undergo the procedure quickly, it may still be desirable to prepare the patient for the procedure in an adaptive and personalized manner. Therefore, expressing "scheduled" does not mean that the medical procedure is scheduled a minimum amount of time in advance, but rather that it is typically scheduled in any situation where it is determined that the patient should undergo the medical procedure.

[0044] According to an embodiment, the processor is configured to construct the initial preparation procedure by selecting and sorting one or more content components based on obtained process information, wherein the one or more content components are specifically derived from a content component database.

[0045] Therefore, the initial preparation procedure has been adapted to the patient and the planned medical process, rather than providing the same general initial preparation procedure. This helps improve patient preparation.

[0046] Content components may include one or more of the following: video components, image components, oral and / or written text components, sound components, cinematic components (especially for different medical procedures including the arranged medical process), game components, and interactive components.

[0047] The processor is preferably configured to select content components based on (temporal) boundary conditions. In other words, the preparation material provided to the patient should be configured to allow physiological data (i.e., physiological responses such as facial expressions) and therefore information about mental states (emotion detection) to be linked to the sections of the preparation material, i.e., content components. In particular, the content components presented to the patient should be long enough to allow the patient's response to develop and be registered / detected. Furthermore, the order of the content components should be suitable for verifying physiological responses and challenging or reinforcing conclusions. Therefore, the length of the content components and / or the pauses between them should allow for differentiation between the emotions evoked by the components. Typically, the length of the content components depends on the method / measurement used to obtain the physiological information. While changes in heart rate can occur rapidly, for example, and thus provide high temporal resolution, other measurements (such as skin conductance responses) are delayed. However, the length of the content components should be at least two seconds, more preferably at least three seconds. In addition, "filler components" can be introduced between content components to bring the patient back to a "baseline response," for example, by lowering his / her heart rate.

[0048] According to another embodiment, the processor is configured to update the preparation procedure based on the mental state information by: adjusting the selection and / or order of the one or more content components, and / or adjusting one or more of the content, level of detail, presentation style, semantics, words, sounds, and length of the one or more content components.

[0049] Updating the preparation process in this way allows for improvements to patient preparation based on the patient's needs.

[0050] For example, if the device infers from the patient's reaction that the details of the female voice explaining the process are perceived as less startling than those of the male voice, the device can adjust the preparation procedure accordingly.

[0051] In situations where information about the psychological state is limited, for example, because only the patient's limited physiological responses exist, the length of the content component can be increased to allow for the acquisition of more information about the psychological state.

[0052] Generally, if psychological state information indicates that the patient feels good—for example, if the patient's response to the preparation procedure is "positive"—no intervention is needed; that is, adjusting the initial training procedure. However, for content components that elicit a "negative" response, an upcoming content component can be selected so that the same content component is presented to the patient again (or repeatedly) to see if the patient's physiological response changes (positively), i.e., whether there is progress in preparation. In some cases, distinguishing between the aforementioned positive and negative valences can be difficult. In fact, it may be preferable to analyze the patient's arousal level, particularly changes in arousal level. For example, an increase in the patient's heart rate can be a sign of increased arousal. While such an increase can indicate a negative response (e.g., fear), it can also indicate a positive response (e.g., intense pleasure). Typically, low arousal is often associated with calmness.

[0053] If repeated presentation of content components to a patient does not improve his / her mental state (i.e., if the valence does not become positive or if the arousal level does not change / decrease), the processor can be configured to select content components that include interpretive material. For example, if a patient (repeatedly) reacts negatively to MR noise, a (strong) explanation of why so much noise is present can be given. Additionally, explanations of what the clinic can do to protect the patient from the noise can be provided. Content involving role-model patients stating that other patients also fear noise and helping them can also be included in the adjusted content components. Furthermore, noise training can be provided, for example, by giving the patient a slider to first play the same noise quietly and then increase his / her own volume to a level they can tolerate. In this way, they regain a specific sense of control and are simultaneously used for that type of noise.

[0054] Adjusting one or more content components (selection and / or order) can be done based on a lookup table. For example, style and / or level of detail can be obtained from a lookup table. Alternatively, the preparation procedure can be repeated as an iterative trial to check if a better patient response has been achieved. Alternatively, artificial intelligence algorithms can be used for this purpose.

[0055] According to a preferred embodiment, the processor is configured to: assign mental state labels and / or mental state scores as mental state information to the one or more content components, the mental state labels indicating the type of the patient's mental state during the presentation of the corresponding content component to the patient in the execution of the preparation procedure, and the mental state scores indicating the intensity of the patient's mental state during the presentation of the corresponding content component to the patient in the execution of the preparation procedure; and update the preparation procedure based on the mental state labels and / or the mental state scores.

[0056] To ensure the creation of appropriate preparation procedures for patients, it is relevant to derive reliable and meaningful mental state information. Specifically, the processor should be configured to derive / determine mental state information that allows differentiation between positive and negative emotions and / or different levels of arousal in the patient. In practice, while some physiological information allows differentiation between low and high arousal levels (e.g., heart rate, blood pressure, skin conductance), other physiological information (e.g., vocal information, facial expression information) can allow differentiation of more specific emotions / valences.

[0057] To differentiate between positive and negative emotions, or different levels of arousal, the processor can assign mental state labels to the content components presented to the patient. For example, if physiological information determines that a content component emotionally agitates the patient, that content component can be labeled "negative" or "high arousal." On the other hand, if physiological information determines that a content component leads to relaxation in the patient, that content component can be labeled "positive" or "low arousal." Similarly, ratings can be used to label content components. For example, content components that induce high levels of arousal can be given higher ratings than content components that induce low levels of arousal. Ratings can be part of a continuous or discrete scale. Based on the labels or ratings, the processor can then adjust the preparation procedure, for example, by selecting content components with ratings lower or higher than a predetermined score.

[0058] Typically, content components can be scored / labeled discretely, such as negative / neutral / positive, low / high arousal, or proportionally based on the patient’s behavior / response, such as a number from 0 to 10.

[0059] Assigning labels or ratings to content components doesn't have to be limited to individual content components. In fact, content components may already be categorized, for example, by topic, length, etc. Therefore, if a patient responds positively to content components from a particular category, the label "positive" can be assigned to (all) other content components within that category. Similarly, if a patient is presented with several content components from a set of components, the processor can calculate a total group score (e.g., a weighted average over the number of topics shown in the group) to determine which content component(s) (or which set of content components) is best suited to have a positive effect on the patient.

[0060] According to another embodiment, the input unit is configured to obtain additional information, wherein the processor is configured to: construct the initial preparation procedure by additionally selecting and sorting the one or more content components based on the obtained additional information; update the preparation procedure based on the additional information; and / or determine, based on the obtained additional information, whether one or more aspects of the arranged medical process need to be adjusted, wherein the additional information includes patient information and / or environmental information.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment, the input unit is configured to obtain information about one or more of the following as patient information: age, size, weight, gender, health status, medications, medical history, preferences, sensitivities, personality, problems encountered during previous medical procedures, frequent emotional states, and communication preferences; specifically, wherein the input unit is configured to obtain the patient information from one or more of the following: a user interface configured to obtain user input, a check card, medical records, and a patient information database; and / or the input unit is configured to obtain information about the room in which the patient will undergo the medical procedure as environmental information, the information including one or more of the following: devices present in the room, colors in the room, etc. The environmental information includes the room's lighting, sound level, number of people in the room, room layout, room ventilation, room temperature, room humidity, and clothing worn by the people and / or the patient during the medical procedure in the room; wherein the input unit is configured to obtain the environmental information from one or more of the following: a user interface configured to obtain user input, an environmental information database, and environmental sensors, the environmental information database including environmental information, including information about the room in which the patient will undergo the medical procedure, and the environmental sensors configured to measure one or more environmental parameters of the room in which the patient will undergo the medical procedure as environmental information.

[0062] For example, if the room where the scheduled medical procedure takes place is cold, the processor can select content components suitable for creating a "warm feeling," such as videos of fireplaces. Additionally, for example, for patients with hearing difficulties, content components including subtitles can be selected.

[0063] Similarly, the patient's physiological response to breathing commands can be observed. During video preparation, for example, the patient can be asked to follow instructions demonstrated in the video, and a facial expression tracker can identify how well the patient follows the instructions. If the patient has difficulty following, or if facial expressions signal tension or overwhelm, the content can be adjusted to reinforce the breathing commands to "train" the patient to follow. Simultaneously, for example, the span of time the patient can hold their breath can be determined as patient information. This patient information can be used to update the preparation procedure.

[0064] According to another embodiment, the input unit is configured to obtain information about any of the following as the physiological information: heart rate, particularly heart rate variability; respiratory rate; blood pressure; changes in skin color (as a result of skin perfusion); skin perfusion; skin conductance; sweating; facial expression; eye position or eye movement, particularly pupillary response and / or gaze direction; changes in the activation of facial muscles (e.g., mouth); electroencephalogram (EEG) measurements; electromyography (EMG) measurements; speech analysis; and / or the input unit is configured to obtain information about one or more of the following as process information:

[0065] Types of medical procedures

[0066] The patient's physical body parts that undergo the medical procedure.

[0067] The duration and / or time of the medical procedure,

[0068] The process of the medical procedure.

[0069] The patient's requirements during the medical process, particularly regarding posture and breathing,

[0070] The patient's travel time and / or waiting time before undergoing the medical procedure, and

[0071] Requirements for taking medication and / or administering contrast agents.

[0072] According to another embodiment, the processor is configured to determine the psychological state information based on the physiological information using a database or program that correlates the obtained physiological information with the psychological state information.

[0073] For example, facial expressions can be obtained as physiological information, and then the processor can correlate them with relevant patient behaviors (i.e., the patient's psychological state).

[0074] For example, a low heart rate (as a physiological signal) can often be associated with low arousal and can indicate low-arousal emotions such as relaxation or boredom. Furthermore, a slow heart rate can often be associated with positive mental states (through the processor).

[0075] On the other hand, a rapid heart rate (as a physiological indicator) can suggest tension, anxiety, or alertness. If the processor determines, for example, that the heart rate is above a predetermined threshold, it can determine that the patient's psychological state is negative.

[0076] If physiological information indicates that a patient's mouth is drooping and there is strong shadow around the mouth, the processor can determine (as psychological state information) that the patient is tense. On the other hand, a neutral mouth position or a slightly upturned mouth and little texture around the mouth can indicate relaxation, i.e., a positive psychological state.

[0077] A smile involving only the zygomaticus major muscle can signal a communicative smile but not a happy one ("non-Duchenne smile"), while a smile involving both the zygomaticus major and orbicularis oculi muscles ("Duchenne smile") can signal a happy one. Emotional expressions can be reliably measured and classified using known methods such as the Facial Action Coding System (FACS; Ekman & Friesen 1978). Using FACS, facial expressions are divided into specific "action units" (AUs) associated with the contraction or relaxation of specific facial muscles. Examples of AUs with associated muscle bases are "nasal wrinkles" (muscle base: levator labii superioris alaeque nasi muscle) or "vaginal wrinkles" (muscle base: buccinator muscle). These action units are associated with specific emotional expressions.

[0078] In addition, existing methods can be used to encode facial expressions to detect and classify emotions, such as the "FaceReader" (Lewinski, P., Den Uyl, TM, & Butler, C. (2014): Automatedfacial coding: Validation of basic emotions and FACS AUs in FaceReader; Journal of Neuroscience, Psychology, and Economics, 7(4), 227).

[0079] Changes in the activation of facial muscles (e.g., the mouth) can be measured visually (using a camera) or using electromyography (EMG). Using these methods, it is possible to determine which facial muscles are activated or deactivated, and, for example, using FACS, a clear mapping exists between muscle activation and emotional state.

[0080] Gazing can be measured using known eye-tracking methods and has been shown to be associated with attention and boredom (Kim, J., Seo, J., & Laine, TH (2018): Detecting boredom from eye gaze and EEG; Biomedical Signal Processing and Control, 46, 302-313).

[0081] Pupil responses (such as pupillary dilation) can indicate emotional arousal (e.g., stimuli with negative emotional valence are associated with dilated pupil size; Kinner, VL, Kuchinke, L., Dierolf, AM, Merz, CJ, Otto, T., & Wolf, OT (2017): What our eyes tell us about feelings: Tracking pupillary responses during emotion regulation processes; Psychophysiology, 54(4), 508-518).

[0082] These and other methods / procedures (e.g., EMG or EEG based on the measurer) can be used to categorize different basic emotional expressions (such as neutral expressions, happiness, sadness, anger, surprise, fear, and disgust) and can provide an index of the degree to which the emotion is displayed on the patient's face. This index can then be used as the aforementioned score.

[0083] According to another embodiment, the input unit is configured to obtain the process information from one or more of the following: a user interface configured to obtain user input, an examination card (e.g., an MRI examination card containing information about the MRI sequence to be run), medical records, and a process information database; and / or, the input unit is configured to obtain the physiological information from one or more of the following: a user interface configured to obtain user input and a patient sensor configured to measure one or more physiological parameters as physiological information, the one or more physiological parameters including information about the patient's physiological state during the execution of the preparation procedure.

[0084] In another embodiment of the device, the processor is configured to use the psychological state information to determine whether the patient needs additional support, particularly additional support from a physician or care provider, or additional support by providing medical aids and generating support control signals to control the user interface to indicate that the patient needs additional support.

[0085] Therefore, if the device determines that external assistance is needed, as a fallback strategy, a trigger can be provided to talk to the nurse, for example, about aspects that are causing the patient's anxiety. The nurse may then be able to provide better and more specific assistance because she has experience with the situation and the patient's concerns.

[0086] Furthermore, providing medical aids can provide additional support to patients. In this context, the term "medical aids" should be interpreted broadly. Medical aids can include earplugs, cushions, stress-relief toys, etc., but can also include medications, especially sedatives.

[0087] In embodiments of the system, the system may further include one or more of the following:

[0088] A control unit (90) is configured to adjust one or more aspects of the medical procedure based on the control signals obtained from the device (10);

[0089] The user interface is configured to receive user input for the process information, the physiological information, the patient information, and / or the environmental information;

[0090] A process information database, which includes process information, including information about medical processes including arranged medical processes;

[0091] A patient information database, which includes patient information, including information about the patient;

[0092] An environmental information database, which includes environmental information, including information about the room in which the patient will undergo the medical procedure;

[0093] The content component database includes multiple content components for constructing personalized preparation procedures, wherein the multiple content components specifically include one or more of the following: video components, image components, oral and / or written text components, audio components, film components for including different medical procedures of the arranged medical process, and game components.

[0094] One or more patient sensors are configured to measure one or more physiological parameters as physiological information, the one or more physiological parameters including information about the physiological state of the patient during the execution of the preparation procedure, the one or more patient sensors particularly including any of the following: a camera, a skin conductivity sensor, a heart rate sensor, a blood pressure sensor, and a breathing belt;

[0095] One or more environmental sensors are configured to measure one or more environmental parameters as environmental information about the room in which the patient will undergo the medical procedure.

[0096] Preferably, the system is implemented in a handheld (electronic) device (particularly a smartphone, laptop, or tablet), and / or in a computer or game console; wherein the drawing unit includes a display configured to display visual information to the patient and / or a speaker configured to output auditory information to the patient.

[0097] Preferably, the device includes a camera and / or a microphone. Therefore, a smartphone or tablet computer, that is, a smartphone or tablet computer that may already be equipped with a camera, is preferred. This provides, for example, the technical prerequisites for capturing facial expressions to determine psychological state information. Attached Figure Description

[0098] These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent from one or more embodiments described below and will be illustrated with reference to one or more embodiments described below. In the following figures:

[0099] Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of the system according to the present invention is shown;

[0100] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the device according to the present invention is shown;

[0101] Figure 3 A schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of the device according to the invention is shown in the form of a smartphone; and

[0102] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the method according to the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0103] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a system according to the invention for personalized preparation of patients scheduled to undergo medical procedures is shown.

[0104] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a device according to the present invention for personalized preparation of a patient scheduled to undergo a medical procedure is shown;

[0105] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a device according to the invention for personalized preparation of patients scheduled to undergo medical procedures is shown in the form of a smartphone; and

[0106] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a method 500 for personalized preparation of a patient scheduled to undergo a medical procedure, according to the present invention, is shown.

[0107] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a system 100 for personalized preparation of patients scheduled to undergo a medical procedure is shown. The system 100 includes: a device 10 for personalized preparation of patients scheduled to undergo a medical procedure, as will be explained in more detail below; a drawing unit 30 configured to draw visual and / or auditory information based on drawing unit signals received from the device 10; a user interface 40; and a first patient sensor 64a and a second patient sensor 64b.

[0108] System 100 can be implemented in a computer, game console, or handheld device (especially a smartphone, laptop, or tablet).

[0109] exist Figure 1 In the exemplary embodiment shown, a programming processor represents device 10, which executes a computer program stored in memory accessed by the processor. However, device 10 can generally be implemented by corresponding units or circuits (e.g., processors, processing circuitry, computers, dedicated hardware, etc.) that perform the functions of device 10. Alternatively, common units or circuits (e.g., common processors or computers) can implement various functions of device 10, or separate units or elements that together represent circuitry can be used.

[0110] The drawing unit 30 can typically be any module that outputs visual and / or auditory information (e.g., in the form of text, as an image or chart, as sound or spoken words, etc.). Figure 1 In one embodiment, the drawing unit 30 includes a display configured to show visual information to the patient in order to output auditory information to the patient. In other embodiments, the drawing unit 30 may include (or be implemented as) a touchscreen, a computer monitor, the screen of a smartphone or tablet, etc. However, a speaker is also conceivable.

[0111] User interface 40 is configured to receive user input, such as process information and additional information (e.g., environmental information). In this case, user interface 40 includes a keyboard; however, in other embodiments, user interface 40 may include a touchscreen, a microphone, and / or any other entity that allows the user to input information.

[0112] The first patient sensor 64a is implemented as a camera, which is faced towards the patient to observe the patient's facial expressions. The second patient sensor 64b is a heart rate sensor configured to measure the patient's heart rate. Therefore, patient sensors 64a and 64b are configured to measure physiological parameters as physiological information, including information about the patient's physiological state during the execution of the preparation procedure.

[0113] Other patient sensors 64b were envisioned, such as skin conductivity sensors, PPG sensors, blood pressure sensors, and respiratory sensors.

[0114] System 100 may also include a process information database 56 containing process information, including information about scheduled medical procedures (including medical procedures within scheduled medical procedures). Process information database 56 may be stored on a server, a central storage device for the hospital or medical services, in the cloud, or at another location accessible by device 10. Process information may include, for example, the type of medical procedure, information about the scanning modality (such as MRI or CT), one or more medical devices used in the medical procedure, the body parts of the patient undergoing the medical procedure, the duration and / or time of the medical procedure, and the process of the medical procedure, such as the scanning sequence.

[0115] System 100 may also include a patient information database 52, which contains patient information including information about the patient. The patient information database 52 may be stored on a server, a central storage device for the hospital or medical services, in the cloud, or at another location accessible by device 10.

[0116] System 100 may also include an environmental information database 54, which includes environmental information, including information about the room in which the patient will undergo a medical procedure. The environmental information may specifically include information about the room in which the patient will undergo a medical procedure, including one or more of the following: equipment present in the room, color of the room, room lighting, sound level in the room, people in the room, room layout, room ventilation, room temperature, room humidity, and clothing worn by people and / or the patient during the medical procedure in the room.

[0117] System 100 may also include a content component database 58, which includes multiple content components for constructing personalized preparation procedures, specifically including one or more of the following: video components, image components, spoken and / or written text components, sound components, film components for including different medical procedures within the arranged medical process, game components, and interactive components. Content component database 58 may be stored on a server, on a central storage device of a content component provider, in the cloud, or at another location accessible by device 10. Content component database 58 may be able to generate additional content components or provide content components to another entity for the generation of additional content components.

[0118] Two or more of the databases mentioned can also be combined into a public database and / or stored in the same location, such as a cloud, archive, or hospital network.

[0119] System 100 may also include one or more environmental sensors 62 configured to measure one or more environmental parameters as environmental information about the room in which the patient will undergo medical procedures. Environmental sensors 62 may include one or more of the following: temperature sensors, cameras, humidity sensors, light sensors, etc.

[0120] As an alternative to or supplement to the drawing unit 30, the system may include a control unit 90 configured to adjust one or more aspects of the medical process based on control signals obtained from the device 10. The control unit 90 can typically be any module capable of acquiring (i.e., retrieving or receiving) control signals and adjusting one or more aspects of the medical process accordingly. The control unit 90 may, for example, be an environmental control unit configured to control the temperature in a hospital room. However, this control unit can also be part of a hospital's scheduling system.

[0121] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a device 10 for personalized preparation of a patient scheduled to undergo a medical procedure is shown. The device 10 includes: an input unit 12 configured to acquire process information including information about the scheduled medical procedure and physiological information including information about the patient's physiological state; and a processor 14 configured to construct and execute a personalized preparation procedure for preparing the patient, specifically constructing an initial preparation procedure based on the acquired process information, executing the initial preparation procedure, acquiring physiological information indicating the patient's physiological responses during the execution of the preparation procedure, and determining psychological state information based on the acquired physiological information indicating the patient's mental state during the execution of the preparation procedure.

[0122] The processor can then use the mental state information to update the preparation procedure and generate rendering unit signals to control the rendering unit 30 to render visual and / or auditory information according to the execution of the preparation procedure. Alternatively or additionally, the processor can use the mental state information to determine whether one or more aspects of the arranged medical procedure need adjustment, and based on the determination, generate control signals for controlling the control unit 90 to adjust one or more aspects.

[0123] Therefore, the output unit 16 is configured to output drawing unit signals to the drawing unit 30 and / or output control signals to the control unit 90.

[0124] Input unit 12 can be directly coupled or connected to user interface 40, one or more of databases 52 to 58, and / or one or more of environmental sensors 62 and / or patient sensors 64 to obtain (i.e., retrieve or receive) desired information. Information can also be stored in storage devices, buffers, networks, or buses, etc. Therefore, input unit 12 can be, for example, a (wired or wireless) communication interface or data interface, such as a Bluetooth interface, Wi-Fi interface, LAN interface, HDMI interface, direct cable connection, or any other suitable interface that allows information transmission to device 10.

[0125] The processor 14 can be any type of module configured to process information and determine control signals therefrom. It can be implemented in software and / or hardware, for example as a programmable processor or computer or application on a user device such as a smartphone, smartwatch, tablet, laptop, PC, workstation, etc.

[0126] Output 16 can typically be any interface that provides the defined control signals (e.g., transmits them to another device or provides them for retrieval by another device, such as a smartphone, computer, tablet, etc.). Therefore, it can typically be any (wired or wireless) communication or data interface.

[0127] Preferably, device 10 is implemented as a handheld device. The term "handheld device" should generally be understood to encompass any suitable device intended to be held by a user during use, regardless of whether the patient actually holds the device. A handheld device is preferably a smartphone, as this is a device that most people have direct access to themselves or at least have direct access to.

[0128] Since most people own or have access to suitable handheld devices, they can be provided with software to run personalized preparation programs on their handheld devices. If not, the mobile device can be temporarily provided for preparation. One advantage is that patients can prepare with the device in a place and at a time that is convenient for them, such as at home.

[0129] Device 10 can be used to generate preparation materials, such as video content, for an upcoming medical procedure. The processor can then use camera-based detection, such as vital signs, facial expressions, and / or emotions, to adjust the preparation materials, the medical procedure itself, or the information given to staff.

[0130] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the device 10 according to the present invention is shown in the form of a smartphone 200. The smartphone 200 includes a display 202, an integrated processor 204, a microphone 206, a speaker 208, and a camera 210.

[0131] The smartphone 200 can be of any size, shape, model, etc., as long as it is suitable for handling the requirements of being used as a device as disclosed herein.

[0132] Display 202 can be of any size or type (e.g., LCD, LED, etc.). Displays with a large surface area and the ability to display strong colors or small, precise details are preferred. Preferably, display 202 is integrated into smartphone 200, but visual content can also be copied or transmitted to an external display connected via wires or wirelessly to the rest of the handheld device, such as a remote display, goggles or glasses, or any virtual reality device (e.g., virtual reality glasses). An integrated display is the most practical and compact solution, but an external display will still be part of the handheld device, even if the external display itself may not be intended to be handheld or portable. Such an external display may be easier to use in situations where the patient cannot view the integrated display, such as due to the patient's position or other reasons preventing the patient from simultaneously holding the handheld device and viewing the integrated display.

[0133] The processor 204 should be able to receive, process, and analyze incoming information and output visual and / or audio information in real time. The processor 204 may also contact a remote processor, such as via the Internet or via a wired or wireless (e.g., Bluetooth or Wi-Fi) connection to a local external processor, such as a workstation that can support the processor's processing capabilities and / or provide additional information (e.g., patient data) and / or store data.

[0134] Preferably, the smartphone 200 is capable of providing audio information, such as sound effects, music, instructions, or other informative verbal messages. For this purpose, the smartphone is equipped with an integrated speaker 208. Alternatively or concurrently, a headset connection may be available to allow connection of a headset worn by the patient.

[0135] Preferably, the display 202 is a touch screen, and therefore can be used not only to display information, but also as a user interface to obtain user input, especially input from patients.

[0136] Using display 202, a preparation procedure in video form can be presented to the patient. For example, if the patient is to prepare for an upcoming MR scan, video content comprising several video segments, each segment (content component) showing a different part of the procedure, can be shown to the patient. For example, the first video segment may involve positioning the patient on the examination table, the second video segment may involve the movement of the examination table into the CT chamber, the third video segment may involve the sounds generated by the MR scan, potentially different sound families (e.g., for different sequences), the fourth video segment may involve breathing commands, and the fifth video segment may involve the movement of the examination table out of the CT chamber.

[0137] Using the smartphone 200, the camera 210 can capture the patient's physiological responses to the preparation procedure for use in the upcoming medical process. Furthermore, via the microphone 206, the patient's voice can be recorded as additional (or alternative) cues to determine the patient's mental state, particularly emotional valence. Specifically, the processor can analyze inflection points, pitch, and specific verbal expressions to determine the patient's mental state.

[0138] Similarly, video presentations can be displayed on monitor 202, providing brief explanations of different groups of environmental experience themes, i.e., what the group is about. For example, animated photos with small changes in the images and soothing sounds, or videos with relaxing content and small changes, or slideshows offering the most changes as new images appear shortly afterward. It should be clear whether the changes in the theme presentation video indicate a new theme, or whether they will appear within a theme, for example, by overlaying a theme title at the beginning of a new theme.

[0139] The patient's reactions to different topics can then be observed and used to adjust the topics presented on monitor 202. Specifically, the video can show selection panels for different topic groups, and facial expressions can be combined with observation of the patient's eye movements to determine which group the patient will choose. If the preparation materials are adaptive, the video can continue based on detected patient gaze (and possible (predetermined) topic group ratings), zooming in on groups that the patient appears interested in, and presenting those topics that the patient rated highest. While such videos do not yet include selection functionality, nurses will be able to select topics very quickly and easily, with patients able to clearly describe the topic, such as "From the nature videos, I like dolphins the most" or "I want to see a full calligraphy video in the 'Story Theme' selection."

[0140] Based on the examples and explanations above, physiological information is provided by camera 210 and / or microphone 206. However, in the case where the display 202 is a touchscreen, physiological data can also be obtained via the touchscreen by measuring the pressure applied by the patient on the touchscreen during interaction. Therefore, the measured pressure can be used to determine psychological state information.

[0141] Device 10, implemented as a smartphone 200 or other handheld device, allows the patient to familiarize himself / her upcoming medical procedure in a place he / she prefers, especially a place where he / she feels comfortable. Therefore, the device is preferably accessible to the patient at home.

[0142] In an example procedure using device 10, device 10 may first obtain procedure information via a patient input section using display 202, which is implemented as a touchscreen. The procedure information includes information about the upcoming medical procedure. Based on this information, processor 204 may construct and execute a personalized preparation procedure to prepare the patient for the scheduled medical procedure. First, an initial preparation procedure is constructed based on the obtained procedure information. The initial preparation procedure may include an interactive computer program displayed to the patient via display 202. Preferably, the interactive computer program also includes an audio component presented to the patient via speaker 208. During the execution of the initial preparation procedure, camera 210 observes the patient's face. Using the camera images, processor 204 determines physiological information indicating the patient's physiological responses during the execution of the preparation procedure. Specifically, processor 204 may analyze the patient's skin color (or more precisely, changes in skin color), heart rate, and facial expressions. Furthermore, gaze tracking may be performed. The processor may correlate this information with one or more content components of the preparation procedure. For example, it may be determined that the patient typically smiles when the content component of the interactive computer program has a low volume. Therefore, the processor can determine psychological state information from the acquired physiological information and update the preparation procedure based on this determined psychological state information. In other words, the inferred patient response to the preparation procedure can be used to improve preparation for a better patient experience and a more successful process and cooperation. Of course, the medical process itself can also be improved by using the information mentioned above.

[0143] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the method 500 according to the present invention is shown. The steps of method 500 can be executed by device 10, wherein the main steps of method 500 are executed by processor 14. Method 500 can be implemented, for example, as a computer program running on a computer or processor.

[0144] In the first step 502, process information, including information about the scheduled medical procedure, can be obtained. The process information may include information about one or more of the following: the type of medical procedure, the body part of the patient to undergo the procedure, the duration and / or time of the procedure, the procedure itself, the patient's requirements during the procedure (particularly regarding the patient's posture and breathing before the procedure, travel time, and / or waiting time), and requirements for medication and / or contrast agent administration. Typically, process information can be generated manually (e.g., from staff), or it may be automatically obtained from medical records (e.g., an EMR system), information systems, or other information sources. These sources may be combined. Process information may be automatically pushed to device 10, or it may be encoded in a link to an app running on device 10 (e.g., it may be part of information provided to the patient / their care provider). For example, the patient may receive a (digital) invitation to a medical procedure that includes a QR code containing information about the scheduled procedure.

[0145] In the second step 504, an initial preparation procedure is constructed based on the obtained process information. The initial preparation procedure may include video, audio, and / or interactive content components.

[0146] In step 506, the initial preparation procedure is performed.

[0147] In the fourth step 508, a drawing unit signal is generated and output to control the drawing unit to draw visual and / or auditory information according to the execution of the initial preparation procedure.

[0148] Then, the patient's response to the initial preparation procedure can be observed; that is, in step 510, physiological information, including information about the patient's physiological state (during the execution of the preparation procedure), is obtained. In particular, the physiological information indicates the patient's physiological responses during the execution of the preparation procedure.

[0149] In the sixth step 512 of method 500, psychological state information indicative of the patient's mental state during the preparation procedure is derived / determined based on the obtained physiological information. This psychological state information may, for example, include information about whether the patient responded positively and / or negatively to the preparation procedure. Such classification may be based on a lookup table or on the use of a computer program that may be supported by artificial intelligence.

[0150] In step 714a, the preparation procedure is updated based on the determined mental state information.

[0151] Subsequently, in step 516, a drawing unit signal is generated to control the drawing unit 30 to draw visual and / or auditory information according to the execution of the preparation procedure, and the signal is output to the drawing unit 30.

[0152] In step 518a, physiological information is obtained again, and in step 520a, psychological state information is determined again.

[0153] In step 522a, a decision is made as to whether method 500 should end. For example, if the patient decides that the preparation procedure should end (and provides the corresponding input), the method can end. Similarly, the preparation procedure can end once the patient's response is sufficiently positive. Predetermined metrics can be used to determine whether the patient's physiological response is sufficiently positive. For example, if a predetermined amount of content components has elicited a positive response, the preparation procedure can end. Otherwise, it can be further updated.

[0154] As an alternative to or supplement to steps 514a to 522a, steps 514b and 516b may be performed. In step 514b, it is determined, based on psychological state information, whether one or more aspects of the arranged medical procedure need to be adjusted.

[0155] Based on the determination described in step 516b, a control signal for controlling the control unit 90 is generated and output to the control unit 90. Afterwards, method 500 ends. Alternatively, the method may not end, and step 518a may be performed.

[0156] Examples of the steps described above are provided for the personalized preparation of the environmental experiential content (video, audio, lighting) to accompany an MR examination, in order to reduce patient anxiety, support the patient to lie quietly and, if necessary, follow instructions.

[0157] In this example, a video presentation of the arranged MR procedure, the MR environmental experience setup, and the environmental experience theme is displayed on a screen with a camera mounted to the patient. The camera observes the patient's face during the video display. The input video is processed to determine: a) changes in skin color, which are used to infer heart rate; b) changes in the eyes (e.g., pupil dilation, changes in gaze direction), which are used to infer fear, boredom, or interest; and c) changes in the mouth, which are used to infer interest, relaxation, or tension. The processor 14 can then conclude that, based on the initial presentation of the MR procedure, a list of those procedure steps that induce anxiety (rapid heart rate, fear in the eyes, tension in the mouth) has been determined. Furthermore, from the presentation of video content, those videos (where the patient's response is positive (slow heart rate, smiling eyes, relaxed mouth)) can be selected and prioritized according to their degree of positivity. Thus, the preparation procedure can be adjusted as follows: First, the MR preparation video can be re-presented to detect whether, compared to the first presentation, negative reactions have been reduced by informing the patient (if not, recommendations can be made to healthcare professionals via user interface 40 to provide support in specific steps that still induce anxiety). In more complex embodiments, additional preparation and anxiety-reducing video material can be added to these steps. Secondly, the video display used for the actual procedure can still be selected by the patient, but the selection provided will only include videos that best suit the patient's desired outcome. For this purpose, a rating / labeling system can be used.

[0158] A simpler approach is to focus on selecting AE-themed videos based solely on video themes that track facial responses—without requiring MR workflow components.

[0159] While the invention has been detailed and described in the accompanying drawings and the foregoing description, such description is to be considered illustrative or exemplary rather than restrictive; the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations to the disclosed embodiments will be understood and implemented by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention through study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims.

[0160] In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the words "a" or "an" do not exclude multiple. A single element or other unit can perform the function of several items recited in the claims. Although specific measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims, this does not indicate that combinations of these measures cannot be advantageously used.

[0161] Computer programs can be stored / distributed on suitable non-transient media, such as optical storage media or solid-state media provided with or as part of other hardware, but computer programs can also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunications systems.

[0162] Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A device (10) for personalized preparation of a patient scheduled to undergo a medical procedure, said device comprising: Input unit (12), which is configured to obtain: Process information, which includes information about the medical procedures being arranged; as well as Physiological information, including information about the patient's physiological state; Processor (14), configured to build and execute a personalized preparation procedure for preparing the patient, including: Construct an initial preparation procedure based on the obtained process information; Perform the initial preparation procedure described above; Obtain the physiological information, which indicates the patient's physiological response during the execution of the preparation procedure; Psychological state information is determined based on the obtained physiological information, the psychological state information indicating the patient's psychological state during the execution of the preparation procedure; and The preparation procedure is updated based on the determined psychological state information, and a drawing unit signal is generated to control the drawing unit (30) to draw visual and / or auditory information according to the execution of the preparation procedure; and / or Based on the psychological state information, it is determined whether one or more aspects of the arranged medical procedure need to be adjusted, and a control signal is generated based on the determination, the control signal being used to control the control unit (90) to adjust the one or more aspects; and The output unit (16) is configured to output the drawing unit signal to the drawing unit (30); and to output the control signal to the control unit (90) if it is determined that one or more aspects of the medical process need to be adjusted.

2. The device (10) according to claim 1. in, The processor (14) is configured to construct the initial preparation procedure by selecting and sorting one or more content components based on the obtained process information, the one or more content components being specifically derived from a content component database (58).

3. The device (10) according to claim 2. in, The processor (14) is configured to update the preparation procedure based on the mental state information by adjusting the selection and / or order of the one or more content components, and / or adjusting one or more of the content, level of detail, presentation style, semantics, words, sounds and length of the one or more content components.

4. The device (10) according to claim 3. in, The processor (14) is configured to: assign mental state labels and / or mental state scores as mental state information to the one or more content components, the mental state labels indicating the type of the patient's mental state during the presentation of the corresponding content component to the patient in the execution of the preparation procedure, and the mental state scores indicating the intensity of the patient's mental state during the presentation of the corresponding content component to the patient in the execution of the preparation procedure; and update the preparation procedure based on the mental state labels and / or the mental state scores.

5. The device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. in, The input unit (12) is configured to obtain additional information, wherein the processor (14) is configured to: construct the initial preparation procedure by additionally selecting and sorting the one or more content components based on the obtained additional information; update the preparation procedure based on the additional information; and / or determine, based on the obtained additional information, whether one or more aspects of the arranged medical process need to be adjusted, wherein the additional information includes patient information and / or environmental information.

6. The device (10) according to claim 5. in, The input unit (12) is configured as follows: Obtain information about one or more of the following as said patient information: age, size, weight, sex, health status, medications, medical history, preferences, sensitivities, personality, problems during previous medical procedures, frequent emotional states, and communication preferences; Specifically, the input unit (12) is configured to obtain the patient information from one or more of the following: a user interface (40) configured to obtain user input, examination cards, medical records and a patient information database (52). and / or The environmental information is obtained as information about the room in which the patient will undergo the medical procedure, the environmental information including one or more of the following: equipment present in the room, color in the room, lighting in the room, sound level in the room, people in the room, layout of the room, ventilation in the room, temperature in the room, humidity in the room, clothing worn by the people and / or the patient during the medical procedure in the room; wherein the input unit (12) is configured to obtain the environmental information from one or more of the following: a user interface (40) configured to obtain user input, an environmental information database (54) and an environmental sensor (62), the environmental information database including environmental information including information about the room in which the patient will undergo the medical procedure, and the environmental sensor being configured to measure one or more environmental parameters as environmental information about the room in which the patient will undergo the medical procedure.

7. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims. in, The input unit (12) is configured to obtain information about any of the following as the physiological information: heart rate, especially heart rate variability; respiratory rate; blood pressure; changes in skin color; skin perfusion; skin conductance; sweating; facial expression; eye position or eye movement, especially pupillary response and / or gaze direction; changes in facial muscle activation; electroencephalogram (EEG) measurements; electromyography (EMG) measurements; Speech analysis; and / or The input unit (12) is configured to obtain information about one or more of the following as process information: Types of medical procedures The patient's physical body parts that undergo the medical procedure. The duration and / or time of the medical procedure, The process of the medical procedure. The patient's requirements during the medical process, particularly regarding posture and breathing, The patient's travel time and / or waiting time before undergoing the medical procedure, and Requirements for taking medication and / or administering contrast agents.

8. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims. in, The processor (14) is configured to determine the psychological state information based on the physiological information by using a database or program that correlates the obtained physiological information with the psychological state information.

9. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims. in, The input unit (12) is configured to obtain the process information from one or more of the following: a user interface (40) configured to obtain user input, a check card, medical records and a process information database (56), and / or wherein the input unit (12) is configured to obtain the physiological information from one or more of the following: a user interface (40) configured to obtain user input and a patient sensor (64) configured to measure one or more physiological parameters as physiological information, the one or more physiological parameters including information about the patient's physiological state during the execution of the preparation procedure.

10. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims. in, The processor (14) is configured to use the psychological state information to determine whether the patient needs additional support, particularly additional support from a physician or care provider, or additional support by providing medical aids and generating support control signals to control the user interface (40) to indicate that the patient needs additional support.

11. A system (100) for personalized preparation of a patient scheduled to undergo a medical procedure, the system (100) comprising: Device (10) for preparing a patient scheduled to undergo a medical procedure according to any of the preceding claims. as well as A drawing unit (30) is configured to draw visual and / or auditory information based on the drawing unit signal obtained from the device (10).

12. The system (100) according to claim 11, further comprising one or more of the following: A control unit (90) is configured to adjust one or more aspects of the medical procedure based on the control signals obtained from the device (10); User interface (40) is configured to receive user input for the process information, the physiological information, the patient information and / or the environmental information; A process information database (56) includes process information, which includes information about medical processes including the arranged medical processes; A patient information database (52) includes patient information, which includes information about the patient; An environmental information database (54) includes environmental information, including information about the room in which the patient will undergo the medical procedure; The content component database (58) includes multiple content components for constructing personalized preparation procedures, wherein the multiple content components specifically include one or more of the following: video components, image components, oral and / or written text components, audio components, film components for including different medical procedures of the arranged medical process, and game components. One or more patient sensors (64) are configured to measure one or more physiological parameters as physiological information, said one or more physiological parameters including information about the patient's physiological state during the execution of the preparation procedure. The one or more patient sensors specifically include any one of the following: a camera, a skin conductivity sensor, a heart rate sensor, a blood pressure sensor, and a breathing belt; One or more environmental sensors (62) are configured to measure one or more environmental parameters as environmental information about the room in which the patient will undergo the medical procedure.

13. The system (100) according to claim 11 or 12. in, The system (100) is implemented in a handheld device and / or in a computer or game console, particularly a smartphone, laptop or tablet computer; The drawing unit (30) includes a display configured to display visual information to the patient and / or a speaker configured to output auditory information to the patient.

14. A method for personalized preparation of a patient scheduled to undergo a medical procedure, the method comprising: Obtain process information, which includes information about the arranged medical process; as well as Obtain physiological information, including information about the patient's physiological state; Developing and executing a personalized preparation procedure for preparing the patient, including: Construct an initial preparation procedure based on the obtained process information; Perform the initial preparation procedure described above; Obtain the physiological information, which indicates the patient's physiological response during the execution of the preparation procedure; Psychological state information is determined based on the obtained physiological information, which indicates the patient's psychological state during the execution of the preparation procedure; The preparation procedure is updated based on the determined psychological state information, and a drawing unit signal is generated to control the drawing unit (30) to draw visual and / or auditory information according to the execution of the preparation procedure; and / or Based on the psychological state information, it is determined whether one or more aspects of the arranged medical procedure need to be adjusted, and a control signal is generated based on the determination, the control signal being used to control the control unit (90) to adjust the one or more aspects; and The drawing unit outputs a signal to the drawing unit (30); and if it is determined that one or more aspects of the arranged medical process need to be adjusted, the control signal is output to the control unit (90).

15. A computer program including a program code module, wherein when the computer program is executed on a computer, the program code module is configured to cause the computer to perform the steps of the method according to claim 14.

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