PRIORIZATION AND MERGERING SCHEME OF ALARMS FOR PATIENT MONITORING SYSTEMS

Abstract

In a central monitoring solution, one or more predefined criteria are established, incorporating data from various clinical parameters, to provide visual indications of patient alert priority and identify patients who may require more attention than others. If predefined criteria for appropriate zones are met, the patient will be displayed in either the "red zone," requiring immediate attention; a "yellow zone," indicating a moderate level of attention; or a "blue zone," indicating that no criteria are met. This color-coding scheme will provide nurses / telemetry technicians with a way to triage patients based on their clinical condition.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED REGISTRATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the priority and benefit of the preliminary US patent application, serial no. 63 / 693,038, filed on September 10, 2024, for all purposes, including the right of priority, the application being hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and to the extent that it does not conflict with the present disclosure. GENERAL STATE OF THE ART

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of medical patient monitoring. In particular, the present disclosure relates to the filtering, prioritization, and aggregation of patient alarms generated in patient monitoring systems. SUMMARY

[0003] The method and apparatus of the present disclosure can be implemented at a central monitoring station in conjunction with remote (e.g., bedside) patient monitors and can follow one or more predetermined criteria, including data from various clinical parameters, to display a patient alert prioritization (“PAP”) scheme for patients requiring more attention than others. In some embodiments described herein, the PAP scheme is a traffic light scheme. If preset criteria for corresponding zones are met, the patient will be displayed either in a “red zone,” requiring immediate attention, or in a “yellow zone,” indicating a moderate level of attention, or in a “blue zone,” indicating that no criteria are met.This color-coding scheme will provide nurses / telemetry technicians with a way to sort patients based on their clinical condition.

[0004] In a first aspect, a computer-implemented procedure for prioritizing patient alarms in a patient monitoring system that includes a central monitoring station is used.The computer-implemented procedure comprises the following: receiving a patient alarm issued by the patient monitoring system when a monitored parameter deviates from a predetermined value; tracking a total number of patient alarms for a set of predefined parameters over a predefined period; defining a variety of priority levels for patient alarms, each priority level being defined by a threshold number of patient alarms; and, for each patient being monitored, displaying a visual indicator at the central monitoring station when the total number of patient alarms exceeds the threshold number of patient alarms for the set of predefined parameters in each of the variety of priority levels, the visual indicator signifying the priority level reached by the monitored patient.

[0005] In a second aspect, a central monitoring station in a clinical care environment comprises one or more processors, a display, and memory. The memory contains instructions which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform a procedure.The procedure comprises the following: receiving a patient alarm issued by the patient monitoring system when a monitored parameter deviates from a predetermined value; tracking a total number of patient alarms for a set of predefined parameters over a predefined period; defining a variety of priority levels for patient alarms, each priority level being defined by a threshold number of patient alarms; and, for each patient being monitored, displaying a visual indicator on the display when the total number of patient alarms exceeds the threshold number of patient alarms for the set of predefined parameters in each of the variety of priority levels, with the visual indicator signifying the priority level reached by the monitored patient.

[0006] A third aspect involves the use of a patient monitoring system in a clinical care setting. This system comprises a variety of medical devices and a central monitoring station. The medical devices monitor the physiological status of each patient. This monitoring includes tracking one or more physiological parameters and generating one or more alarms when a monitored parameter deviates from a predetermined value.The central monitoring station performs a procedure that includes: receiving patient alarms issued by the multitude of medical devices; tracking a total number of patient alarms for a set of predefined parameters within a predefined time period; defining a multitude of priority levels for the patient alarms, each priority level being defined by a threshold number of patient alarms; and, for each patient being monitored, displaying a visual indicator at the central monitoring station when the total number of patient alarms exceeds the threshold number of patient alarms for the set of predefined parameters in each of the multitude of priority levels, the visual indicator signifying the priority level reached by the monitored patient.

[0007] The above is a simplified summary of the invention to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of it. This summary is not a complete summary of the invention. It is not intended to identify essential or decisive elements of the invention or to outline the scope of protection of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description that will be discussed later. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] In the drawings, identical reference numbers generally denote identical, functionally similar and / or structurally similar elements. Fig. 1A, Fig. 1B and Fig. 1C is a flowchart illustrating a warning sequence for a first prioritization level of patient alarms according to one or more examples; Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B and Fig. 2C is a flowchart illustrating a warning sequence for a second prioritization level of patient alarms after one or more examples; Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B and Fig. 3C is a flowchart illustrating a warning sequence for a third prioritization level of patient alarms after one or more examples; Fig. Figure 4 is a representation of a user interface for a patient alarm prioritization system that is included in a patient monitoring system according to one or more examples; Fig. Figure 5 is another representation of a user interface for a patient alarm prioritization system that is included in a patient monitoring system according to one or more examples; Fig.Figure 6 is another representation of a user interface for a patient alarm prioritization system, which is included in a patient monitoring system according to one or more examples; and Fig. Figure 7 is another representation of a user interface for a patient alarm prioritization system that is included in a patient monitoring system according to one or more examples. Fig. Figure 8 illustrates a scenario in which a patient monitoring system can be implemented according to one or more examples. Fig. 9A, Fig. 9B are block diagrams of selected aspects of the medical device or central monitoring system, respectively, which were first presented in Fig. 8 will be shown. Fig. 10 depicts a scenario in which the patient monitoring system of Fig. 8 can be implemented according to one or more examples.

[0009] While the disclosed technology is receptive to various modifications and alternative forms, the drawings illustrate specific embodiments, which are described in detail herein as examples. It should be understood, however, that the description of specific embodiments herein is not intended to limit what is claimed to the particular disclosed forms, but rather, on the contrary, that the invention is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] Illustrative examples of the subject matter claimed below are disclosed. For the sake of clarity, not all features of an actual implementation for each example are described in this account. It will be evident that in the development of any such actual implementation, numerous implementation-specific decisions may be made to achieve the specific goals of the developers, such as compliance with system-related and enterprise-related constraints, which will vary from one implementation to another. Furthermore, it will be evident that a development effort, even if complex and time-consuming, would be a routine undertaking for the average professional benefiting from this disclosure.

[0011] The expressions such as "include" and "may include" that may be used in this disclosure indicate the presence of the disclosed functions, operations, and components and do not limit the presence of one or more additional functions, operations, and components. In this disclosure, terms such as "include" and / or "indicate" may be interpreted as denoting a particular property, number, operation, component, or combination thereof, but should not be interpreted as excluding the presence or the possibility of adding one or more other properties, numbers, operations, components, or combinations thereof.

[0012] As used herein, the article “a” is intended to have its usual meaning in the field of patents, namely, “one or more”. Hereinafter, the term “about”, when applied to a value, generally means within the tolerance range of the equipment used to produce the value, or, in some examples, means plus or minus 10%, or plus or minus 5%, or plus or minus 1%, unless expressly specified otherwise. Furthermore, the term “essentially”, as used herein, means a majority or nearly all, or all, or a quantity with a range of, for example, about 51% to about 100%. In addition, it is intended that the examples given herein are for illustrative purposes only and are provided for discussion purposes and not as a limitation.

[0013] As used herein, to “provide” an object means to have possession of and / or control over the object. This may include, for example, forming (or assembling) some or all of the object from its constituent materials and / or acquiring possession of and / or control over an already formed object.

[0014] Unless otherwise defined, all terms, including technical and / or scientific terms, have the same meaning as they are commonly understood by a person skilled in the art in the field to which this disclosure belongs. Furthermore, unless otherwise defined, all terms defined in commonly used dictionaries must not be interpreted excessively. Details are set forth below to provide a more thorough explanation of the embodiments. However, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that embodiments can be implemented without these specific details. In other cases, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form or in a schematic view rather than in detail to avoid obscuring the embodiments.Furthermore, features of the different embodiments described below can be combined with one another, unless specifically stated otherwise. For example, variations or modifications described in relation to one of the embodiments may also be applicable to other embodiments, unless otherwise stated.

[0015] Furthermore, equivalent or similar elements, or elements with equivalent or similar functionality, are referred to in the following description by equivalent or similar reference numbers. Since the same or functionally equivalent elements in the figures are given the same reference numbers, a repeated description for elements with the same reference numbers can be omitted. Consequently, descriptions provided for elements with the same or similar reference numbers are mutually interchangeable.

[0016] It will be understood that when an element is described as "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it may be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or there may be intervening elements. Conversely, when an element is described as "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intervening elements. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted similarly (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.).

[0017] In the present disclosure, expressions including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., may modify various elements. However, such elements are not restricted by the above expressions. For example, the above expressions do not restrict the sequence and / or importance of the elements. The above expressions are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one element from the other elements. For example, a first box and a second box denote different boxes, although both are boxes. As another example, a first element could be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element could also be referred to as a first element, without departing from the scope of protection of the present disclosure.

[0018] A sensor refers to a component that converts a physical quantity to be measured into an electrical signal, for example, a current signal or a voltage signal. The physical quantity can include, but is not limited to, electromagnetic radiation (e.g., photons of infrared or visible light), a magnetic field, an electric field, pressure, force, temperature, current, or voltage.

[0019] Several examples of a patient alarm prioritization system (“PAP system”) described herein support nurses in patient prioritization and alarm aggregation. Nurses are experiencing increases in workload, patient-to-nurse ratios, acute patient conditions, the number of hospital alarms, and nurse fatigue, all of which can negatively impact patient outcomes.

[0020] In an environment where nurses are caring for a higher number of patients with more acute conditions and responding to more alarms, it's not just the handling of the alarms themselves that becomes important in reducing nurse fatigue, but also support in patient prioritization in response to the alarms. When each patient triggers an alarm 150 to 400 times per shift (multiplied by the number of patients the nurse is caring for), supporting them in prioritizing which patients require their attention first is essential, as nurses are responding to hundreds of alarms for each patient every shift.

[0021] While it is not always possible to minimize or cancel alarms based on their severity, supporting nurses in interpreting patient priority based on alarms helps them determine which patients require attention first. This is an intended function of the PAP system described herein. In one or more examples, the PAP system provides patient-specific visual indicators via the central station, categorizing patients on a low / medium / high priority scale based on which alarms have occurred. The nurse is able to select the alarms most critical for each patient, choose a time frame, and select the number of these alarms that must occur within that time frame to trigger the activation of the low / medium / high priority visual indicators (e.g., differentiated by color).When a PAP indicator is triggered, it will appear as a small, flashing visual indicator near the patient's name on the central ward display. Clicking the indicator will open a history list of alarms that met PAP criteria, changing the indicator from a flashing state to a solid state. The nurse can also reset the PAP indicator from this screen, clearing both the indicator and the history list of applicable alarms, thus resetting the process.

[0022] Because nurses may be responding to numerous alarms for many different patients at any given time, these patient-specific indicators visually represent which patients have met pre-selected PAP criteria. This provides an overview of patient prioritization and helps nurses determine which patients may require closer care / monitoring. It can also assist nurses in assessing which patients are deteriorating, which patients need to be evaluated for increased care levels, which patients may not be ready for discharge, and so on. Furthermore, it helps nurses understand which patients may be triggering alarms more frequently than before, aiding in the detection of potential patient deterioration and increased acute conditions.

[0023] Furthermore, the feature also provides alarm setting suggestions for each patient, generated through machine learning / AI, based on past alarms. Because the feature monitors the frequency of selected alarms, it can suggest changes to alarm settings that are better suited to each patient and can reduce nurse alarm fatigue.

[0024] Furthermore, this feature also provides the ability to organize patient views at the central station based on PAP prioritization. When PAP is enabled at a central station, users have a PAP view option that organizes patients on the central station screen based on their PAP priority indicators. Patients who have met the criteria to trigger a high-priority indicator (RED) are placed at the top of the screen, followed by patients with a medium-priority indicator (YELLOW), patients with a low-priority indicator (BLUE), and finally, patients who have not met the criteria to trigger the PAP indicator, as you scroll down.Not only useful for nursing staff within the facility, this feature is also very beneficial for nursing staff outside the facility, such as telemetry technicians who monitor more than 40 patients at once in control center environments.

[0025] Although many examples are described here where the PAP system visualization is color-coded, it is understood that different visualization methodologies can be implemented in other examples. For instance, in addition to or instead of color coding, the visualizations could be alphanumeric, symbolic, or any combination thereof.

[0026] The following Table 1 is an example of an implementation of a patient alarm filtering, prioritization and merging process according to one or more embodiments. TABLE 1 SELECT TIME SELECT ALARM LEVEL SELECT ALARM TYPE CONDITION 5 / 10 / 15 minutes Only high Select up to arrhythmia and parameter alarms If a predetermined number of discrete arrhythmia or parameter alarms are recorded, then display in RED. 5 / 10 / 15 minutes High + medium Select up to arrhythmia and parameter alarms If a predetermined number of discrete arrhythmia or parameter alarms are recorded, then display with YELLOW. 5 / 10 / 15 minutes Only medium Select up to arrhythmia and parameter alarms If a predetermined number of discrete arrhythmia or parameter alarms are recorded, then display them in BLUE.

[0027] With reference to Fig.1A, Fig. 1B and Fig. 1C, Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B and Fig. 2C and Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B and Fig.In section 3C, flowcharts 100, 200, and 300 are shown, illustrating a warning sequence for multi-layered prioritization of patient alarms according to one or more examples. In the example represented by flowcharts 100, 200, and 300, the PAP system is activated with respect to heart rate (HR), blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), and apnea detection parameters for the patients. In this example, the threshold number of alarms to trigger a "BLUE" nurse alert (flowchart 100) is set to three (3), the threshold number of alarms to trigger a "YELLOW" nurse alert (flowchart 200) is set to six (6), and the threshold number of alarms to trigger a "RED" nurse alert (flowchart 300) is set to nine (9).

[0028] As in Fig. 1A, Fig. 1B and Fig.As shown in Block 1C, at time 0900 in Block 101, the patient was alerted due to one of the specified parameters (HR, SpO2, or apnea). If this is determined to be a false alarm, the PAP system will not start in Block 104. Similarly, if the alarm is valid ("true"), the PAP system will not start in Block 102, because, as mentioned above, the threshold for starting at the lowest (BLUE) alarm level is three alarms.

[0029] With continued reference to Fig. In block 106, at time 0905, patient 1A was alerted due to one of the specified parameters. If this alarm is determined to be false, the PAP system will not start in block 110. If the alarm is determined to be valid ("true"), the PAP system will again not start in block 108, as the threshold for starting at this stage is three alarms.

[0030] In block 112, the patient triggered an alarm due to one of the specified parameters. If the alarm is determined to be false, the PAP system will not start in block 116. If the alarm is determined to be valid ("true"), the PAP system will start in block 114, with the BLUE indicator on the central monitor flashing because the threshold for starting at this stage is three alarms, and the alarm in block 112 was the third in this example.

[0031] The connecting block 118 shows the transition from Fig. 1A to Fig. 1B. With reference now to Fig.In block 120, at time 09:15, the patient is alerted due to one of the specified parameters. If this alarm is determined to be false, the PAP system will maintain the flashing BLUE indicator in block 124. Similarly, if the alarm in block 120 is valid ("true"), the PAP system will maintain the flashing BLUE indicator in block 122, as the threshold for escalation to a higher priority level is six alarms, whereas the alarm in block 120 is only the fourth in this example.

[0032] In block 126, at time 0920, the patient triggers an alarm due to one of the specified parameters. If this alarm is determined to be false, the PAP system will maintain the flashing BLUE indicator in block 130. Similarly, in block 128, if the alarm in block 126 is determined to be valid ("true"), the PAP system will also maintain the flashing blue indicator, since the threshold for escalation to a higher priority level is six alarms, whereas the alarm in block 126 is only the fifth in this example.

[0033] Following the false alarm in block 130, in block 132 the user checks the applicable PAP alarms. This causes the BLUE PAP indicator to become solid, reflecting the user's attention to the alarm condition. Alternatively, in block 134 the user can determine that the patient's condition is acceptable and clear the PAP indicator. This causes the PAP indicator to disappear, and the PAP system restarts.

[0034] The connecting block 128 shows the transition from Fig. 1B to Fig. 1C, between block 124 (BLUE indicator flashing) and blocks 136 and 138. In block 136, the user can check the applicable PAP alarms, which causes the BLUE PAP indicator to change to a steady (on) state. Alternatively, in block 138, the user can clear the PAP indicators, which causes the PAP indicator to disappear and restarts the PAP system.

[0035] With continued reference to Fig. In block 140, the patient is alerted due to one of the specified parameters. This is the fifth alarm in this example. If the PAP alarm is determined to be false, the BLUE PAP indicator in block 144 remains steady. However, if the alarm in block 140 is determined to be true, the BLUE PAP indicator in block 142 returns to flashing.

[0036] Referring next to Fig. 2A, Fig. 2B and Fig. Section 2C shows a flowchart illustrating a warning sequence for a second prioritization level of patient alarms following one or more examples. As in Block 202 in Fig. 2A noted that the patient, between 0900 and 0920, raised the alarm five times due to the specific parameters.

[0037] At block 204 in Fig.At time 0922, in block 2A, the patient triggers an alarm due to one of the specified parameters. This represents the sixth alarm for the patient in this example, and consequently, it enters the second (YELLOW) priority level of the PAP system. In block 208, if the alarm is determined to be false, the PAP system maintains the flashing BLUE PAP indicator. However, if, in block 206, the alarm is determined to be true, the PAP system will initiate a flashing YELLOW indicator.

[0038] With continued reference to Fig.2A is alarmed in block 212 at time 0928 due to one of the specified parameters. This is the seventh alarm in this example. If the patient alarm in block 212 is determined to be false, then in block 216 the PAP system maintains the flashing YELLOW PAP indicator set in block 206. Likewise, in block 214, if the patient alarm in block 212 is determined to be true, then the PAP system maintains the flashing YELLOW PAP indicator set in block 206, as the threshold for transitioning to the next higher indicator level (BLUE) is nine alarms.

[0039] The connecting block 218 shows the transition from Fig. 2A to Fig.2B, between block 216 (yellow indicator flashing) and blocks 220 and 222. In block 222, the user can clear the PAP indicators, causing the yellow indicator to disappear and restarting the PAP system. Alternatively, in block 220, the user can check the applicable PAP alarms, causing the yellow PAP indicator to remain lit.

[0040] In block 224 of this example, at time 0928, the patient triggers an alarm due to one of the specified parameters. This is the eighth alarm in the illustrated example. As shown in block 228, if this alarm is determined to be false, the PAP system maintains a steady YELLOW indicator. However, as shown in block 226, if the alarm in block 224 is determined to be true, the PAP system reverts to a flashing YELLOW PAP indicator.

[0041] The connecting block 210 shows the transition from Fig. 2A to Fig.2C, between block 208 (BLUE indicator flashing) and blocks 230 and 232. In block 230, the user can check applicable PAP alarms, which causes the BLUE indicator to become steady. Alternatively, in block 232, the user can clear the PAP indicators, which causes the BLUE indicator to disappear and restarts the PAP system.

[0042] In Block 234 in Fig. At time 0925, the patient triggers an alarm due to one of the specified parameters. This is the seventh alarm in the illustrated example. If the alarm in block 234 is determined to be false, the PAP system maintains a steady BLUE indicator in block 238. Conversely, if the alarm in block 234 is determined to be true in block 236, the PAP system triggers a flashing YELLOW indicator.

[0043] Referring next to Fig. 3A, Fig. 3B and Fig.3C shows a flowchart illustrating a warning sequence for a third prioritization level of patient alarms, following one or more examples. As in block 302 in Fig. 3A noted that the patient, between the times 0900 and 0928 (Block 224 in Fig. 2B), alarmed eight times due to specific parameters. Then alarmed, in block 304 in Fig. 3A, at time 0930, the patient is affected by one of the specified parameters. This is the ninth alarm in the illustrated example. If the alarm in block 304 is determined to be false, then in block 308 the PAP system maintains the steady YELLOW indicator. Conversely, if the alarm in block 304 is determined to be true, then in block 306 the PAP system triggers a flashing RED indicator.

[0044] With continued reference to Fig.3A is alarmed in block 312 at time 0935, due to one of the specified parameters. This is the tenth alarm in the illustrated example. If the alarm in block 312 is determined to be false, then in block 316 the PAP system maintains the flashing RED indicator. Likewise, if the alarm in block 312 is determined to be true, then in block 314 the PAP system maintains the flashing RED indicator.

[0045] The connecting block 318 shows the transition from Fig. 3A to Fig. 3B, between block 316 (red indicator flashing) and blocks 320 and 322. In block 320, the user can check applicable PAP alarms, which causes the PAP system to keep the red indicator steady. In block 322, the user can clear the PAP indicators, which causes the red indicator to disappear and restarts the PAP process.

[0046] In Block 324 in Fig.In block 3B, at time 0935, the patient triggers an alarm due to one of the specified parameters. This is the eleventh alarm in the illustrated example. If the alarm in block 324 is found to be false, the RED indicator in block 328 remains steady. Conversely, as shown in block 326, if the alarm in block 324 is found to be true, the PAP system will trigger a flashing RED indicator.

[0047] The connecting block 310 shows the transition from Fig. 3A to Fig. 3C, between block 308 (yellow indicator flashing) and blocks 330 and 332. In block 330, the user can check applicable PAP alarms, which causes the PAP system to keep the yellow indicator steady. In block 332, the user can clear the PAP indicators, which causes the yellow indicator to disappear and restarts the PAP process.

[0048] In Block 334 in Fig.At time 0933, in block 3C, the patient is alerted due to one of the specified parameters. This is the tenth alarm in the illustrated example. If the alarm in block 334 is determined to be false, then in block 338 the PAP system causes the YELLOW indicator to remain steady. Conversely, as shown in block 336, if the alarm in block 334 is determined to be true, then the PAP system triggers a flashing RED indicator.

[0049] The parameters used in the PAP system are designed to be user-configurable. They can be adapted to a specific care setting, patient population, medical condition, known medication, etc. The parameters can be selected from a list including: heart rate (HR), blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), apnea detection, temperature, total number of arrhythmias, specific types of arrhythmias, ECG, respiratory rate, humidity detection, and various other physiological parameters.

[0050] Fig. Figure 4 is a representation of a user interface for a patient alarm prioritization system that is included in a patient monitoring system according to one or more examples. Fig.Section 4 specifically depicts the user interface through which a user (a caregiver) can set the PAP system parameters. In the example of Fig. 4. The user can select up to three different applicable alarms to trigger the PAP system. The user can also select a PAP time frame during which the selected alarms must occur to trigger the PAP system indicator(s), as well as the number of alarms that must occur to trigger the different indicators (BLUE, YELLOW, RED).

[0051] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, when the PAP system is triggered for a patient, the PAP indicator will appear in the applicable color near the patient's name in the view window.

[0052] As in Fig.As shown in Figure 6, all alarms that meet the criteria to trigger the PAP system can be found in an alarm history list linked to each patient. Selecting any individual alarm will allow the user to view an "event" history, where the user can review the complete data associated with the events. The user can also reset the PAP system from the one shown in Figure 6. Fig.The menu shown in section 6 will clear the alarm history list and remove the PAP indicator from the patient view window. Furthermore, based on criteria triggered by the PAP system, a machine learning algorithm can be used to provide the user with suggestions for setting adjustments that may further reduce alarm fatigue. Inputs to the machine learning algorithm can include selected patient parameters, specific time thresholds used, and patient outcomes.

[0053] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, if the PAP system view is enabled for a specific patient, a status message can be displayed at the central monitoring station (ICS). The ICS may offer a PAP system view option that can arrange patients according to their PAP system priority.

[0054] A data processing resource can be provided that implements a patient alarm prioritization procedure. The data processing resource can be, for example, and without limitation, a desktop workstation (e.g., a workstation), a mobile data processing platform (e.g., a laptop or tablet), or a desktop computer accessing cloud computing resources. The data processing resource can include at least one hardware processor and a non-volatile, machine-readable storage medium. The machine-readable medium can store instructions that, when executed by the hardware processor (either directly or via emulation / virtualization), cause the hardware processor to perform the patient alarm prioritization procedure described above.

[0055] In various examples, the hardware processor can be, for example, and without limitation, a microcontroller, a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), a programmed logic assembly (PLA), or a custom processing circuit. Instructions can be executed by one or more processors, such as one or more CPUs, DSPs, general-purpose microprocessors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable logic assembly (FPGAs), or other equivalent integrated or discrete logic circuits. Accordingly, the term "processor," as used herein, refers to any of the foregoing structures or any other structure suitable for implementing the techniques described herein.Furthermore, in some aspects, the functionality described herein can be provided within dedicated hardware and / or software modules. The techniques could also be implemented entirely within one or more circuits or logic elements. A "controller," which includes one or more processors, can use electrical signals and digital algorithms to perform its receiving, analysis, and control functions, which may also include correction functions. Consequently, a controller is a specific type of processing circuit technology comprising one or more processors and memory that performs control functions by generating control signals.

[0056] A computer-readable medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer. Examples of such computer-readable media include random-access memory (“RAM”), solid-state memory (“ROM”), electrically erasable / programmable solid-state memory (“EEPROM”), compact disc ROM (“CD-ROM”) or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that is accessible to a computer. Disk and disc, as used herein, include compact disc (“CD”), laserdisc, optical disc, digital versatile disc (“DVD”), floppy disk, and Blu-ray. ® -Disc, where disks typically reproduce data magnetically, while discs reproduce data optically using lasers.

[0057] It should also be noted that the software-implemented aspects of the subject matter are typically encoded on some form of program storage medium or implemented via some type of transmission medium. The program storage medium is a non-volatile medium and can be magnetic (e.g., a floppy disk or a hard disk) or optical (e.g., a compact disc or "CD-ROM") and can be either fixed-level or random-access memory. Similarly, the transmission medium can be twisted pairs of wires, coaxial cable, optical fiber, or any other transmission medium known in the field. The claimed subject matter is not limited by these aspects of any given implementation.

[0058] Fig.Figure 8 depicts a clinical care environment 800 in which a patient monitoring system 803 can be implemented according to one or more examples. A patient 806 in a bed or stretcher 809 is physically connected to a medical device 812. Those skilled in the art will recognize that care for a patient in a typical healthcare environment can be provided using a variety of devices that could generate alarms. These alarms may be related to the purpose and operation of the particular medical device and may therefore differ from alarms emitted by other devices.

[0059] Although not shown, those average professionals who have the benefit of this disclosure will recognize that the Medical Monitoring System 803 will typically include a wide variety and number of other medical and network devices. Such other medical devices may include, for example, and without limitation, IV infusion sets, therapy devices, incubators, motion detectors, and so forth. Other network devices may include, for example, and without limitation, gateways, antennas, servers, routers, and various other data processing devices. These other medical and network devices work together and individually to provide the functionality of the Network 115 as described herein.

[0060] Accordingly, the medical device 812 in the clinical care setting 800 is representative of a range of medical devices that would be found in a typical healthcare setting. All behaviors and functionalities relevant to the claimed subject matter can be extrapolated to other medical devices that may exist but are not shown. It should nevertheless be understood that the generation of alarms and the types of these alarms may vary depending on the medical device generating the alarm.

[0061] The medical device 812 in the clinical care setting 800 is a patient monitor that monitors one or more physiological parameters of the patient 806, but in other embodiments it can be any other type of medical device. The physiological parameters are monitored by the medical device 812 via a plurality of leads 815, which include sensors 818. The conductive leads 815 are attached to the patient 806, who is located on a bed or stretcher 809, and data are collected. The patient 806 is located at what can be called a “local” site 821, which is “local” because it is where the patient 806 is located.

[0062] Those professionals who have the benefit of this revelation will recognize that a typical healthcare setting might monitor a variety of physiological parameters, such as heart rate, respiratory rate, blood oxygen levels, and so on. In general terms, a patient monitor collects data, processes, and / or analyzes that collected data. The processing and analysis could lead to the detection of an alarm condition and, potentially, the output of an alarm.

[0063] The clinical care environment 800 includes not only the medical device 812, but also a data processing system 824 and a central monitoring station 827. The central monitoring station 827 and the medical device 812 communicate with each other via the data processing system 824, which includes the communication links 830a to 830b. The central monitoring station 827 is located at a remote site 833 in relation to the local site 821. As used herein, in one sense, the term "remote" means a physically different location from where the medical device 812 is located. In one sense, "remote" can mean that the geographical location is physically different from the "local" location. In a second sense, "remote" also means that the location is outside the physical presence of the patient 806.Conversely, medical device 812 is also, in both of these senses, far from central monitoring station 827.

[0064] For example, patient 806 might be in a room where medical care is being provided. This room could be in a medical care facility, such as a hospital, hospice, acute care center, or doctor's office, depending on the implementation. The remote location might be in a different part of a community, or even in a different community or country than the local location. The remote location 833 might be across town or down the street from the medical care facility where patient 806 is. Or, the remote location 833 might be in an office in the same building where the patient is being treated, or down the hall from the room where patient 806 is (i.e., local location 821).

[0065] The 824 data processing system can therefore be a combination of private and public networks. For example, the medical device 812 can communicate with the central monitoring station 827 via the private network of a medical facility or via the internet, which is a public network. Consequently, communication links between the medical device 812 and the central monitoring station 827 can be established partly or entirely via the private and / or public networks of the 824 data processing system. Accordingly, the communication links 830a to 830b can be wired or wireless, depending on what is appropriate and / or desirable.

[0066] For the sake of completeness, selected aspects of the medical device 812 and the central monitoring station 827 will be presented. In general, it is provided by the present disclosure that the medical device 812 and the central monitoring station 827, as well as any other data processing equipment used in the clinical care environment 800, include electronic components, software, and / or electronic data processing equipment capable of receiving, transmitting, processing, storing, and / or managing data and associated information, which perform the functions of the system as described herein.This consideration includes any suitable processing equipment adapted to perform data processing tasks compatible with the execution of computer-readable instructions stored in a memory or computer-readable recording medium.

[0067] With reference to now Fig. 9A The medical device 812 includes one or more processors 903, a memory 906, a communication interface 909, a sensor interface 912, and a display 915, all of which communicate via a bus system 918. A set of instructions 921 and a graphical user interface (“GUI”) 924 are located on the memory 906. The medical device 812 receives the data from the sensors 818 and the input lines 815, both of which are in Fig.The data shown in Figure 8 is acquired through the sensor interface 912. The processors 903 execute instructions 921 to process and analyze the acquired data in real time or near real time. The processors 903 can then display the processed data to a caregiver (not shown) at the patient's bedside on the display 915 using the GUI 924. The processors 903 also transmit the data from the device using the communication interface by executing instructions 921.

[0068] Fig.9B represents the central monitoring station 827. The central monitoring station 827 includes one or more processors 903', a memory 906', a communication interface 909', and a display 915', all of which communicate via a bus system 918'. A set of instructions 921' and a GUI 924' are stored in the memory 906'. Execution of the instructions 921' by the processor(s) 903' provides the functionality of the central monitoring station 827, including interaction with the clinical assistant 842, which is located in Fig. 8 is shown through the GUI 924'.

[0069] Those professionals who have the benefit of this disclosure will recognize that the Patient Monitor 812 and the Central Monitoring Station 827 may, and likely will, include other components. These other components may implement common functionalities, such as a power source. For example, a power source (not shown) may include a self-contained power source, such as a battery pack, and / or an interface that is powered by an electrical connection, either directly or through a monitor mount. The power source may also be a rechargeable battery that can be removed, allowing for replacement. In the case of a rechargeable battery, a small built-in backup battery (or a supercapacitor) may be provided to ensure uninterrupted power during battery replacement.

[0070] Now to Fig.8 and Fig. 9A to Fig.Returning together, the one or more processors 903, 903' can be used to control the general operations of the respective device 812, 827. The one or more processors 903, 903' can be any suitable processor-based resource. They can be, but are not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), a hardware microprocessor, a multi-core processor, a single-core processor, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a controller, a microcontroller, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), or any other similar processing device capable of executing any type of instruction, algorithm, or software to control the operation and perform the functions of the respective device 812, 827.In some embodiments, the one or more processors 903, 903' may comprise a processor chipset which includes, for example and without limitation, one or more coprocessors.

[0071] The memory units 906, 906' can be single memory devices or one or more memory devices at one or more memory locations, which, without limitation, can include one or more random-access memory (RAM), a memory buffer, a hard disk drive, a database, an erasable programmable solid-state memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable solid-state memory (EEPROM), a solid-state memory (ROM), flash memory, a hard disk, various layers of a memory hierarchy, or any other non-volatile, computer-readable medium. Depending on the implementation of the one or more processors 903, 903', the memory units 906, 906' can be on-chip or off-chip memory.

[0072] The memories 906, 906' can be used to store any type of instructions 921, 921' associated with algorithms, processes, or operations for controlling the general functions and operations of the devices 812, 827. The instructions 921, 921' can be any form of software, including, without limitation, firmware, executable applications, etc. Execution of the instructions 921, 921' by the respective one or more processors 903, 903' will provide the functionalities of the devices 812, 827 associated with the technique disclosed herein, as discussed below.

[0073] The 909 and 909` communication interfaces enable the respective network device 812 or 827 to communicate directly or indirectly (via, for example, a monitor mount) with one or more data processing networks and devices, workstations, consoles, computers, surveillance equipment, warning systems, and / or mobile devices (e.g., a mobile phone, tablet, or other handheld display device). The 909 and 909` communication interfaces can include various network cards, interfaces, communication channels, a cloud, antennas, and / or circuitry to enable wired and wireless communication links with such data processing networks and devices.

[0074] The 909 and 909` communication interfaces can be used, for example, to establish a BLUETOOTH ® -connection, a mobile network connection and / or a WIFI ®-to implement connections with such data processing networks and devices. Exemplary wireless communication links implemented using the 909 and 909' communication interfaces include wireless links conforming to an IEEE 802.11 protocol, a Radio-Frequency For-Consumer-Electronics (“RF4CE”) protocol, and / or an IEEE 802.15.4 protocol (e.g., ZigBee). ® They can work with the (-protocol) but are not limited to it. Essentially, any wireless communication protocol can be used.

[0075] Furthermore, the 909 and 909' communication interfaces can enable direct (i.e., device-to-device) communication links (e.g., message transmission, signal exchange, etc.), such as from a Universal Serial Bus ("USB") connection or another communication protocol interface. The 909 and 909' communication interfaces can also enable direct device-to-device connections to other devices, such as a tablet, computer, or similar electronic device, or to an external storage device or memory.

[0076] Experts will recognize that the implementation of the 912 sensor interface will depend heavily on the physiological parameters being monitored. Different types of data collected by different types of sensors will typically be processed differently, and thus the implementation of the 912 sensor interface will vary. However, although not required, most 912 sensor interface implementations will include analog-to-digital conversion of the data. Furthermore, as discussed elsewhere, not all medical devices will be patient monitors, nor will they necessarily connect to sensors. Some medical devices may therefore omit a sensor interface.

[0077] Displays 915, 915' can be used to show information to a caregiver or other user via the GUI 924, 924' in response to the execution of instructions 921, 921' by one or more processors 903, 903'. This can include, for example, the views that are in Fig. 4 to Fig. 7. The displays 915, 915' can be implemented using flat panel displays, cathode ray tube (“CRT”) displays, ultrawide and curved displays, and / or any other suitable type of display. The technologies may include, but are not limited to, liquid crystal display (“LCD”), such as in-plane switching (“IPS”) or vertical alignment (“VA”), light emission diode (“LED”), such as organic light emission diode (“OLED”), twisted nematic (“TN”) panels, and cathode ray tubes (“CRT”).

[0078] It should be noted that the various components of devices 812, 827 can be implemented differently in any given embodiment. As a non-limiting example, in one embodiment the one or more processors 903 can be a single microprocessor, while the one or more processors 903' can be a processor chipset. Or the memory 906 can be implemented in a single RAM, while the memory 906' can be implemented in a redundant grouping of independent disks. Those skilled in the art who have the benefit of this disclosure will recognize further examples of implementation-specific differences through embodiments.

[0079] To Fig.Returning to the 812 patient monitor, the device acquires data as described above and then analyzes it. As part of processing and analyzing the data, the medical device may detect an alarm condition. If so, an alarm is generated and communicated. It is common to communicate the alarm using audio or visual cues. For example, without limitation, the alarm may include a broadcast audio signal (such as a buzzing or beeping sound) and / or a visual signal (such as a flashing light). The alarm may also be transmitted, for example, without limitation, via the 824 data processing system to a centralized monitoring station (not shown), such as a nurses' station.

[0080] Fig.Figure 10 depicts a clinical care environment 1000 in which a technological system can be implemented according to one or more examples. A cloud computing system 1003 at a location 1001 includes a variety of data processing resources 1003 that have been allocated to the implementation of the technology disclosed herein. The allocated resources may include, for example, process resources 1009 and storage or memory resources 1012. The clinical care environment 1000 further includes a variety of medical devices 1015, each at a respective location 1016, and the medical devices grouped into clusters 1018. A variety of clinical staff 1021, each at a respective location 1022, is also shown, each at a respective workstation 1023. The locations 1001, 1016, and 1022 can be local or remote, as discussed above. The data processing devices (e.g.,The medical devices 1015, the workstations 1023, the cloud computing resources 1006) communicate with each other via the data processing system 1030, also as discussed above.

[0081] Theoretically, there is no limit to the number of medical devices 1015, workstations 1023, or sites 1016, subject only to the adequate availability of other data processing resources. Such "other" data processing resources might include, for example, bandwidth across the data processing system 1030 and data processing resources 1006 in the cloud computing system 1003. Accordingly, the numbers of medical devices 1015, workstations 1023, and data processing resources 1006 are only representative, and alternative implementations may include more or fewer data processing devices. Similarly, the number of sites 1016, 1022, and 1004 may vary depending on the implementation. Although only one medical device 1015 per site 1016 is shown, each site 1016 can accommodate many medical devices 1015.Similarly, any number of workstations can be located at any given location 1022, and cloud computing resources can be distributed across multiple locations 1004.

[0082] The medical devices 1015 operate according to their programs to perform their programmed functionality with regard to the patients (in Fig. 10 (not shown), to whom they are assigned, to perform. During these operations, alarms are detected and handled by nurses or clinical staff at the bedside, none of whom are shown. In some cases, clinical staff 1021 can monitor the medical equipment 1015 via workstations 1023 and handle the alarms. How an alarm is handled will depend on the condition that triggered the alarm. Handling the alarm can be as complex as providing emergency treatment or as simple as silencing the alarm.

[0083] Upon the occurrence of an alarm, the medical device 1015 transmits the alarm data, as discussed above, which is generated by the alarm. In some embodiments, the alarm data may also include feedback from the clinical staff as to whether the alarm is a false alarm. For example, if the clinical staff quickly silences the alarm by treating the underlying cause, it can be concluded that the alarm is a false alarm. This information may then be included in the transmitted alarm data.

[0084] All such alarm data is transmitted via the data processing system 1030 to the assigned data processing resources 1006 of the cloud computing system 1003. The alarm data received via the data processing system 1030 from all medical devices 1015 is aggregated in the assigned storage resources 1012. The aggregated alarm data 1033 is then processed by the assigned processing resources 1009, which include both hardware and software resources 1036, as described above. Fig. 1 described. The hardware and software resources 1036 then receive feedback from at least one of the clinical staff 1021. The resulting set of actual false alarms can then be used in one of several ways, as described herein, to help reduce alarm fatigue.

[0085] Accordingly, the in Fig.1 to 3C illustrate procedures in a clinical care setting, such as those used in Fig.Figures 8 to 10 are shown. The method and apparatus of the present disclosure can therefore be implemented on a central monitoring station in conjunction with remote (e.g., bedside) medical devices, such as patient monitors. The central monitoring station can follow one or more predetermined criteria, which may include data from various clinical parameters, to display a traffic light system for patients who require more attention than others. If all criteria are met, the patient is displayed in the "red zone," which requires immediate attention. If one partial criterion is met, the patient will be in the "yellow zone," and if no criterion is met, the patient will be in the "blue zone."This color-coding scheme will provide nurses / telemetry technicians with a way to sort patients based on their clinical condition.

[0086] The method and device disclosed herein are therefore integrated into the technological patient monitoring system in the clinical care environment and improve its functionality. Specifically, the method and device assist nursing staff in prioritizing automated alarms generated during the monitoring process and, consequently, in the physical response to such alarms. This, in turn, can help reduce "alarm fatigue." Alarm fatigue is a complex and widespread problem that occurs when clinical staff are exposed to an excessive number of alarms, which can lead to desensitization to alarm tones and an increased rate of missed alarms. The method and device disclosed herein therefore enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the patient monitoring process.

[0087] Accordingly, in a first embodiment, a computer-implemented method for prioritizing patient alarms is used in a patient monitoring system that includes a central monitoring station.The computer-implemented procedure comprises the following: receiving a patient alarm issued by the patient monitoring system when a monitored parameter deviates from a predetermined value; tracking a total number of patient alarms for a set of predefined parameters over a predefined period; defining a variety of priority levels for patient alarms, each priority level being defined by a threshold number of patient alarms; and, for each patient being monitored, displaying a visual indicator at the central monitoring station when the total number of patient alarms exceeds the threshold number of patient alarms for the set of predefined parameters in each of the variety of priority levels, the visual indicator signifying the priority level reached by the monitored patient.

[0088] In a second embodiment, in the computer-implemented method of the first embodiment, the visual indicator comprises a patient-specific indicator that identifies the patient according to the priority level of the patient alarm.

[0089] In a third embodiment, the computer-implemented method of the second embodiment further comprises receiving a user input that selects the patient-specific indicator and displaying a history list of alarms that met patient alarm prioritization criteria.

[0090] In a fourth embodiment, the computer-implemented method of the second embodiment further comprises receiving a user input that selects the patient-specific indicator and transitioning the visual indicator from a flashing state to a steady state.

[0091] In a fifth embodiment, the computer-implemented method of the second embodiment further includes receiving a user input that resets the visual indicator.

[0092] In a sixth embodiment, the computer-implemented method of the first embodiment further includes suggesting changes to alarm settings if the alarm is a frequently occurring alarm.

[0093] In a seventh embodiment, a central monitoring station in a clinical care environment comprises one or more processors, a display, and a memory. The memory contains instructions which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform a procedure.The procedure comprises the following: receiving a patient alarm issued by the patient monitoring system when a monitored parameter deviates from a predetermined value; tracking a total number of patient alarms for a set of predefined parameters over a predefined period; defining a variety of priority levels for patient alarms, each priority level being defined by a threshold number of patient alarms; and, for each patient being monitored, displaying a visual indicator on the display when the total number of patient alarms exceeds the threshold number of patient alarms for the set of predefined parameters in each of the variety of priority levels, with the visual indicator signifying the priority level reached by the monitored patient.

[0094] In an eighth embodiment, in the central monitoring station of the seventh embodiment, the visual indicator includes a patient-specific indicator that identifies the patient according to the priority level of the patient alarm.

[0095] In a ninth embodiment, the central monitoring station of the eighth embodiment further comprises receiving a user input that selects the patient-specific indicator and displaying a history list of alarms that met patient alarm prioritization criteria.

[0096] In a tenth embodiment, the central monitoring station of the eighth embodiment further comprises receiving a user input that selects the patient-specific indicator and transitioning the visual indicator from a flashing state to a steady state.

[0097] In the eleventh embodiment, the central monitoring station of the eighth embodiment further includes receiving a user input that resets the visual indicator.

[0098] In a twelfth embodiment, the central monitoring station of the seventh embodiment further includes suggesting changes to alarm settings if the alarm is a frequently occurring alarm.

[0099] In a thirteenth embodiment, in the central monitoring station of the seventh embodiment, the method further comprises receiving a plurality of patient alarms issued by the patient monitoring system from a plurality of medical devices, wherein the received patient alarm is one of the plurality of patient alarms.

[0100] In a fourteenth embodiment, a patient monitoring system is used in a clinical care setting. The patient monitoring system comprises a variety of medical devices and a central monitoring station. The medical devices monitor a specific physiological state for each of a variety of patients. Monitoring includes monitoring one or more physiological parameters and issuing one or more alarms when a monitored parameter deviates from a predetermined value.The central monitoring station performs a procedure that includes: receiving patient alarms issued by the multitude of medical devices; tracking a total number of patient alarms for a set of predefined parameters within a predefined time period; defining a multitude of priority levels for the patient alarms, each priority level being defined by a threshold number of patient alarms; and, for each patient being monitored, displaying a visual indicator at the central monitoring station when the total number of patient alarms exceeds the threshold number of patient alarms for the set of predefined parameters in each of the multitude of priority levels, the visual indicator signifying the priority level reached by the monitored patient.

[0101] In a fifteenth embodiment, in the patient monitoring system of the fourteenth embodiment, the visual indicator comprises a patient-specific indicator that identifies the patient according to the priority level of the patient alarm.

[0102] In the sixteenth embodiment, the patient monitoring system of the fifteenth embodiment further comprises receiving a user input that selects the patient-specific indicator and displaying a history list of alarms that met patient alarm prioritization criteria.

[0103] In a seventeenth embodiment, the patient monitoring system of the fifteenth embodiment further comprises receiving a user input that selects the patient-specific indicator and transitioning the visual indicator from a flashing state to a steady state.

[0104] In an eighteenth embodiment, the patient monitoring system of the fifteenth embodiment further comprises receiving a user input that resets the visual indicator.

[0105] In a nineteenth embodiment, the patient monitoring system of the fourteenth embodiment further includes suggesting changes to alarm settings if the alarm is a frequently occurring alarm.

[0106] In a twentieth embodiment, the patient monitoring system of the fourteenth embodiment further comprises a data processing system through which the medical devices and the central monitoring station communicate.

[0107] The detailed description is given with reference to the accompanying drawings and is provided to aid in a comprehensive understanding of various embodiments of the present disclosure. Changes may be made to the function and arrangement of the elements discussed without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Different embodiments may omit, replace, or add various procedures or components, as applicable. For example, features described in relation to certain embodiments may be combined in other embodiments. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions may be omitted for the sake of clarity and conciseness.Accordingly, average experts will recognize that various changes and modifications are made to the examples described herein, without deviating from the spirit and scope of protection of the present revelation.

[0108] The use of the terms “capable of,” “able to,” “functional to,” or “configured to” in one or more embodiments refers to a device, logic, hardware, and / or element that is designed in such a way as to enable the use of the device, logic, hardware, and / or element in a specified manner. The use of the term “exceed” in one or more embodiments indicates that a measured value could be higher than a predetermined threshold (e.g., an upper threshold) or lower than a predetermined threshold (e.g., a lower threshold).If a predetermined threshold range (defined by an upper threshold and a lower threshold) is used, the use of the term "exceed" in one or more embodiments could also indicate that a measured value is outside the predetermined threshold range (e.g., higher than the upper threshold or lower than the lower threshold). The subject matter of this disclosure is provided as examples of devices, systems, methods, circuits, and programs for performing the features described herein. However, further features or variations are provided in addition to those described above.It is intended that the implementation of the components and functions of the present disclosure can be carried out using any newly emerging technology that can replace any of the technologies implemented above.

[0109] Several modifications to the revelation will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other variations without departing from the spirit and scope of protection of the present revelation. Throughout the present revelation, the terms “example,” “examples,” or “exemplary” indicate examples or cases and do not imply or require any preference for the examples mentioned. Consequently, the present revelation is not to be limited by the examples and configurations described above, but is to be afforded the widest scope of protection consistent with the disclosed principles and novel features.

Claims

[1] Computer-implemented method for prioritizing patient alarms in a patient monitoring system that includes a central monitoring station, wherein the computer-implemented method comprises: Receiving one or more patient alarms issued by the patient monitoring system when a monitored parameter deviates from a predetermined value; Tracking a total number of patient alarms for a set of predefined parameters over a predefined period; Defining a variety of priority levels for patient alerts, where each priority level is defined by a threshold number of patient alerts; and For each patient being monitored, a visual indicator will be displayed at the central monitoring station when the total number of patient alarms exceeds the threshold number of patient alarms for the set of predefined parameters in each of the multitude of priority levels, with the visual indicator marking the priority level reached by the monitored patient. [2] Computer-implemented method according to claim 1 wherein the visual indicator comprises a patient-specific indicator that identifies the patient according to the priority level of the patient alarm. [3] Computer-implemented method according to claim 2, further comprising: Receiving a user input that selects the patient-specific indicator, and Display a history list of alarms that met patient alarm prioritization criteria. [4] Computer-implemented method according to claim 2, further comprising: Receiving a user input that selects the patient-specific indicator, and Transitioning the visual indicator from a flashing state to a steady state. [5] Computer-implemented method according to claim 2, further comprising receiving a user input that resets the visual indicator. [6] Computer-implemented method according to claim 1, further comprising suggesting changes to alarm settings if the alarm is a frequently occurring alarm. [7] Central monitoring station for use in a clinical care setting, the station comprising the following: one or more processors, an advertisement and a memory containing instructions which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform a procedure comprising the following: Receiving a patient alarm issued by the patient monitoring system when a monitored parameter deviates from a predetermined value; Tracking a total number of patient alarms for a set of predefined parameters over a predefined period; Defining a variety of priority levels for patient alerts, where each priority level is defined by a threshold number of patient alerts; and For each patient being monitored, a visual indicator will be displayed at the central monitoring station when the total number of patient alarms exceeds the threshold number of patient alarms for the set of predefined parameters in each of the multitude of priority levels, with the visual indicator marking the priority level reached by the monitored patient. [8] Central monitoring station according to claim 7, which further comprises suggesting changes to alarm settings if the alarm is a frequently occurring alarm. [9] Central monitoring station according to claim 7, wherein the method further comprises receiving a plurality of patient alarms issued by the patient monitoring system from a plurality of medical devices, wherein the received patient alarm is one of the plurality of patient alarms. [10] Patient monitoring system used in a clinical care setting, the patient monitoring system comprising the following. a variety of medical devices that monitor a specific physiological state for each of a variety of patients, wherein the monitoring includes monitoring one or more physiological parameters and issuing one or more alarms when a monitored parameter deviates from a predetermined value, and a central monitoring station that carries out a procedure which includes the following: Receiving patient alarms issued by the multitude of medical devices; Tracking a total number of patient alarms for a set of predefined parameters over a predefined period; Defining a variety of priority levels for patient alarms, where each priority level is defined by a threshold number of patient alarms; and For each patient being monitored, a visual indicator will be displayed at the central monitoring station when the total number of patient alarms exceeds the threshold number of patient alarms for the set of predefined parameters in each of the multitude of priority levels, with the visual indicator marking the priority level reached by the monitored patient.

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