Medication management system

Abstract

To provide a medication management system capable of preventing a medicine package having a dosing timing different from a dosing timing set in a medicine delivery tray from being delivered into the medicine delivery tray.SOLUTION: A medication management system comprises: a medicine delivery tray in which medicine packages to be taken at the same dosing timing are delivered; partitioned boxes such as a plurality of storage containers which are detachably attached to the medicine delivery tray and store medicine packages; and an operation terminal being determination means which determines whether or not a medicine package is to be stored in the partitioned box. The operation terminal reads patient information and dosing timing information from a code image printed on the medicine package (S2), collates the read information with medication schedule data stored in an auxiliary storage device of the operation terminal being medication schedule storage means and obtained by listing the patient information for whom dosing is scheduled at the same dosing timing, and determines whether or not the medicine package is to be stored in the partitioned box.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a medication management system. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, a device has been known that includes a medication tray into which medication packets to be administered at the same timing (e.g., before breakfast, after breakfast, before lunch, after lunch, etc.) are distributed, and a plurality of storage containers that are detachable from the medication tray and store the medication packets.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a medication support device that includes multiple cartridges containing multiple medicine packets and a transfer means for removing the medicine packets from the cartridges and transferring them to a dispensing box, which serves as a storage container, arranged in each compartment of a medication tray. The medication support device has a storage means for reading the recipient's name information and medication timing information from a two-dimensional code printed on the medicine packet stored in each cartridge and storing the read recipient's name information and medication timing information in association with the cartridge. Each dispensing box arranged in each compartment of the medication tray has a label affixed thereto on which is printed text information on the recipient's name and medication timing, and a two-dimensional code image encoding the recipient information and medication timing information.

[0004] The medication support device identifies, from among multiple cartridges, a cartridge containing a medicine packet to be dispensed into a compartment of a medication tray as follows: That is, it acquires the name information of the recipient and medication timing information from a two-dimensional code printed on the label of a dispensing box placed in the compartment of the medication tray, and identifies from memory means a cartridge containing a medicine packet that matches the acquired information. Then, it removes the medicine packet from the identified cartridge and transfers it by a transfer means to a dispensing box placed in the compartment corresponding to the label. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, there is a risk that a medicine package with a different dosage timing from the dosage timing set in the medicine distribution tray may be distributed to the medicine distribution tray. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention is a medication management system comprising a medication tray into which medication packets to be taken at the same medication timing are distributed, a plurality of storage containers configured to be detachable from the medication tray and in which the medication packets are stored, a medication schedule storage means for storing medication schedule data that lists information on recipients who will be given medication at the same medication timing, and a determination means for reading recipient information and medication timing information from a code image printed on the medication packet or from a storage means provided on the medication packet, comparing it with the medication schedule data stored in the medication schedule storage means, and determining whether the medication packet is a medication packet to be stored in the storage container. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent a medicine package having a different dosage timing from the dosage timing set in the medicine distribution tray from being distributed to the medicine distribution tray. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the entire medication management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] (a) is a plan view of a single drug package, (b) is a side view of the drug package in (a) as seen from the direction of arrow A, (c) is a side view of a drug package combination, and (d) is a diagram showing the general shape of a pack continuum. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is an external perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a medication tray. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a dispensing box held in a medication tray. [Figure 5]FIG. 1A is a diagram illustrating a conventional medication management system, and FIG. 1B is a diagram illustrating the medication management system of this embodiment. [Figure 6] Functional block diagram of an operation terminal for preventing medication errors when preparing (sorting) medication. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating preparation (sorting) of medications performed using an operation terminal. [Figure 8] Flowchart for medication distribution preparation (sorting). [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the operation terminal when a two-dimensional code image on a medicine packet is read. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the operation terminal when information matching the medication schedule is found. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the operation terminal when medication distribution preparation (sorting) is not completed. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the operation terminal when there is no information that matches the medication schedule. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a sorting inspection device. [Figure 14] FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the operation terminal when reading the identification tag of the dispensing box when checking for any incorrect medication before administering it to a recipient. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the operation terminal when information read from a medicine package matches information on an identification tag. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the preparation (sorting) of medication in the first modified example. [Figure 18] 10 is a flowchart showing preparation (sorting) of medication for variant example 1. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of an operation terminal used for preparation (sorting) of medication distribution according to the first modified example. [Figure 20] 10 is a flowchart showing preparation (sorting) of medication for variant example 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that a person skilled in the art can easily modify or alter the present invention within the scope of the claims to create other embodiments, and these modifications and alterations are included within the scope of the claims. The following description is an example of the best mode for carrying out the present invention and does not limit the scope of the claims.

[0010] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the entire medication management system according to this embodiment. The medication management system of this embodiment is mainly composed of a medication dispensing device 200 and a medication dispensing preparation (sorting) system 500. The medication dispensing device 200 is placed in a facility where recipients of medication are present, such as a hospital or a nursing home (here, a nursing home). The medication dispensing preparation (sorting) system 500 is mainly provided in a facility such as a dispensing pharmacy (here, a dispensing pharmacy), and is a system related to sorting medicine packets 2 into medication dispensing trays 30 that are transported to the facility where recipients of medication are present.

[0011] The medicine distribution preparation (sorting) system 500 has a management terminal 510 as a management means configured from a personal computer or the like, and an operation terminal 520 as a determination means. The operation terminal 520 is a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, and reads a two-dimensional code image 6 such as a QR code (registered trademark) printed on the medicine package 2, and determines whether the medicine package 2 should be distributed to the medicine distribution tray 30.

[0012] The management terminal 510, like a general desktop PC, is equipped with input devices such as a keyboard, a pointing device (such as a mouse), and a touch panel, a display device such as a display, a computing device such as a CPU, storage devices such as RAM, ROM, and SSD, and a communication device for communicating with external devices (devices such as the operation terminal 520 that are communicatively connected via a communication line). The management terminal 510 includes the acquired prescription information.

[0013] The management terminal 510 creates a database from information on prescriptions (paper or electronic media) submitted by hospitals or nursing facilities, including recipient information (such as the name of the nursing facility where the recipient resides, the floor where the recipient resides, the recipient's name, and administrative number), medication timing information (before breakfast, after breakfast, before lunch, after lunch, and so on), and drug information (type of drug, name of drug, precautions, and so on). Specifically, recipient information such as the recipient's facility and the recipient's floor, medication history information such as the timing of medication, the name of the dispenser who dispensed the medication and whether or not the medication was administered, dispenser information, and identification information of an identification tag on which the drug information and medication timing are written are linked to the recipient's name and the recipient's administrative number and are stored in the database.

[0014] Based on this database, the management terminal 510 creates a medication schedule that lists recipients at the same facility, on the same floor, and at the same medication timing. The management terminal 510 creates multiple medication schedules (for example, Facility A, Floor A, after-lunch medication schedule, Facility A, Floor B, after-lunch medication schedule, Facility A, Floor A, before-dinner medication schedule, Facility A, Floor B, before-dinner medication schedule, etc.). These created medication schedules are sent to the operation terminal 520 and stored in the operation terminal 520.

[0015] The medication tray 30 into which the medication packets 2 (see FIG. 2) have been sorted by the medication preparation (sorting) system 500 is transported to a medication dispensing device 200 arranged in a facility where the recipient is located, such as a nursing home. The medication tray 30 transported to the facility where the recipient is located is then sent to the dispenser by a caregiver or the like at the facility. As will be described later, the dispenser then checks whether the medication packets 2 set in the medication tray 30 are correct, and if they are correct, the medication is administered to the recipient.

[0016] Next, an overview of the medicine packet 2 will be described. Fig. 2(a) is a plan view showing a typical configuration of a single medicine packet, Fig. 2(b) is a side view of the medicine packet 2 of Fig. 2(a) as seen from the direction of arrow A in the figure, Fig. 2(c) is a side view of a combination of medicine packets in which medicine packets 2 are stacked and combined, and Fig. 2(d) is a diagram showing a typical configuration of a continuous medicine packet. Note that illustration of the medicine is omitted in Fig. 2(b) and Fig. 2(c).

[0017] The form of the medicine bag 2 includes a single medicine bag 2, a combination of medicine bags 2A in which a plurality of medicine bags 2 (two in FIG. 2(c)) are stacked in the stacking direction and joined together, for example, by stapling, and the like.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 2(a), one medicine packet 2 is made of, for example, a resin film, and contains medicine 3 such as capsules or tablets. The medicine packet 2 has a pouch portion 2a that covers the medicine 3, and a crimped portion 4, which is formed by crimping or welding three sides shown by hatching in the figure. The side on the pouch portion 2a side is usually folded in half, with the medicine 3 sandwiched between them, and the crimped portion 4 forms a leak prevention portion that prevents the medicine 3 from leaking from the pouch portion 2a. The medicine 3 in one medicine packet 2 usually corresponds to a single dose for a patient.

[0019] The medicine packets 2 are created (packaged) by a medicine packaging machine installed in a pharmacy, etc. The packaging paper (packaging sheet) used to package the outer packaging is a long rolled sheet that is folded and rolled in an overlapping state, and the medicine 3 to be taken is sandwiched between the sheets.

[0020] The three sides of the medicine 3 other than the fold line are sealed and divided into multiple doses by the crimping section 4, forming a continuous sheet of medicine packets 2 for the required number of doses. This continuous sheet of medicine packets is called a "continuous medicine packet."

[0021] The continuous medicine packet 1 shown in Figure 2(d) is a strip of medicine packets 2 (three doses in the example shown). The continuous medicine packet 1 is typically provided and sold at pharmacies and other locations to users (including those who actually take the medicine in the medicine packets, caregivers who assist and support the administration of the medicine, as well as staff at various nursing care facilities and medical facilities (a concept that includes pharmacists, nurses, caregivers, and medication supporters)). For the sake of simplicity, the following description illustrates a single medicine packet containing medicines of the same form (capsules, tablets, etc.), but it goes without saying that different medicines may be used in a single medicine packet depending on the user's use and purpose.

[0022] As shown in Fig. 2(c) as an example, a combined medicine packet 2A may also be used. The combined medicine packet 2A may be formed by fastening together the central portions of the crimped portions 4 on the three sides of multiple (two shown in Fig. 2(c)) medicine packets 2 with staples 8 (see Fig. 2(c)) or by joining them together with tape, or by integrating a Chinese herbal medicine pack or a PTP (Press-Through-Pack) packaging sheet.

[0023] A two-dimensional code image 6, such as a QR code (registered trademark), in which recipient information, such as the recipient's name, and medication timing information are coded is printed on the surface of the bag portion 2a of the medicine packet 2. In the medicine packet 2 shown in FIG. 2, only the two-dimensional code image 6 is printed, but recipient information in the form of text and medication timing information may also be printed. Furthermore, the two-dimensional code image 6 may include, as recipient information, not only the recipient's name but also the name of the facility where the recipient resides and the floor information on which the recipient resides. Furthermore, the two-dimensional code image 6 may also include the type of medication (including the shape of the medication) and number of tablets contained in the medicine packet 2, information engraved on the medication itself, and the like.

[0024] Next, the medication tray 30 will be described. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the medication tray 30. As shown in FIG. As shown in Figure 3, the medication tray 30 has partition walls 31, which are partition members serving as a plurality of partitions for arranging specific medicine packets 2, and each partition is divided by four upright partition walls 31. The 20 compartments 33 formed on the medication tray 30 can be expressed as elements of a matrix consisting of five columns in the X direction (row feed direction) and four rows in the Y direction (character feed direction). As a result, each of the 20 compartments 33 on the medication tray 30 can be uniquely identified by the elements and addresses of the 5-column, 4-row matrix.

[0025] The medication tray 30 has a bottom wall 32 on which the medication packets 2 dispensed into each compartment 33 are placed. The medication tray 30 is configured so that by storing the corresponding medication packets 2 in each compartment 33 defined by the partition walls 31 and the common bottom wall 32, the medication packets can be managed separately from other medication packets (medicine packets belonging to other people).

[0026] In the medication tray 30 shown in Figure 3, "Floor A After Lunch Medication Tray" displayed on the front outer wall indicates that this is a medication tray to which medication packets 2 to be taken after lunch are distributed to multiple residents (medicated persons) living on the same floor A in a nursing home, for example.

[0027] In the medication tray 30 of this embodiment, a dispensing box 34 serving as a removable storage container is set in each compartment 33. The dispensing box 34 stores medicine packets 2 each containing medicines to be taken after lunch for a total of 20 people, which are handed over to recipients by a caregiver who administers medicine, for example, in a nursing facility. That is, the medication tray 30 of this embodiment stores the medicine packets 2 via the dispensing box 34 in each compartment 33 separated by a partition wall 31.

[0028] Next, the subdivision box 34 of this embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an example of a dispensing box 34 serving as a storage container held in the medication tray 30. As shown in FIG. In this embodiment, each subdivision box 34 is prepared for each recipient, and stores the medicine packets 2 for the corresponding recipient. In this embodiment, the dispensing box 34 is configured as a box-shaped container structure made of a material (e.g., plastic material) such as plastic or paper. More specifically, as shown in Fig. 4, the dispensing box 34 has a transparent structure 35 in the shape of a hollow cube or hollow rectangular parallelepiped with an open top, and the internal space of the structure 35 functions as a storage container in which the medicine packets 2 are stored.

[0029] Furthermore, in the dispensing box 34 of this embodiment, the rear wall of the structure 35 is formed higher than the front wall and both side walls. A label 36 on which recipient information 36a consisting of the characters "Mr. A, Daytime" and medication timing information 36b are printed is attached to the upper part of the rear wall of the structure 35. Medication is distributed so that the information about medication, such as the recipient's name and medication timing, displayed on this label 36 matches the recipient and medication timing corresponding to the medicine packet 2 stored in the dispensing box 34.

[0030] Furthermore, an identification tag 37 such as an RFID tag used as container storage means for reading tag information using short-range wireless communication is disposed on the bottom wall 35a of the structure 35 of each dispensing box 34. As will be described later, recipient information such as the recipient's name and medication timing information are read and written to the identification tag 37 via wireless communication with the operation terminal 520. The recipient information and medication timing information written to the identification tag 37 are used for confirmation during an inspection after medication preparation is complete and when a caregiver or other medication provider administers medication to the recipient.

[0031] FIG. 5(a) is a diagram illustrating a conventional medication management system, and FIG. 5(b) is a diagram illustrating the medication management system of this embodiment. In a conventional medication management system, medication is first dispensed based on information in a prescription (paper or electronic medium) submitted by a hospital or nursing facility, and a medication package 2 is created using a medication packaging machine (S101, S102). Next, as a medication distribution preparation (sorting) task, the medication packages 2 to be set (stored) in each subdivision box 34 of the medication distribution tray 30 are sorted (S103).

[0032] Once the medication preparation (sorting) work is complete, the medication tray 30 is transported to a facility such as a nursing home, and this medication tray 30 is set in the medication dispensing device 200 located in the facility. Next, this medication tray 30 is transported to each floor of the facility. Then, a dispenser such as a caregiver on each floor takes the dispenser box 34 from the medication tray 30 and hands it over to the recipient such as the caregiver. Before being handed over to the recipient, the prescribed medication is verified against the recipient (S104).

[0033] For example, the recipient information (name) and medication timing information are read from the two-dimensional code image 6 printed on the medicine packet 2. Then, it is confirmed whether the recipient information 36a (name) printed on the label 36 of the subdivision box 34 matches the medication timing information 36b (see FIG. 4). If they match, the subdivision box is handed over to the recipient, the medication is administered (S105), and medication history information is sent to the management terminal 510, and the medication history is entered into the database of the management terminal 510 (S106).

[0034] In this way, in the past, medication errors were prevented by checking whether the medicine packet 2 stored in the dispensing box 34 was correct only once, before administering the medicine to the recipient (before the dispensing box was handed over to the recipient).

[0035] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5(b), in this embodiment, during medication preparation (sorting) (S203), whether the medicine packets 2 to be set (stored) in the dispensing box 34 are correct is confirmed, and the first medication error prevention measure is taken during medication preparation (sorting). Furthermore, after medication preparation is completed, a medication inspection (S204) is performed before the medication distribution tray 30 is transported to the facility, and the second medication error prevention measure is taken before the medication distribution tray 30 is transported to the facility. Thus, in this embodiment, a total of three medication error prevention measures are taken, including the prevention of a medication error before the medication is administered to the recipient. This further prevents medication errors than in the past. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent situations in which medication is not administered to the recipient due to an incorrect medicine packet 2 stored in the dispensing box 34. The medication error prevention of this embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0036] FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of an operation terminal 520 for preventing medication errors when preparing (sorting) medications. The operation terminal 520 has a CPU 521, a storage unit 522, and an input / output I / F unit 523. The CPU 521 functions as a control device 521a that controls the entire operation terminal 520. The CPU 521 also starts up the OS using a boot program stored in a main storage unit 522a such as a ROM. The CPU 521 also functions as a calculation unit 521b that executes programs stored in an auxiliary storage unit 522b such as a storage and the main storage unit 522a on the OS.

[0037] Input / output I / F section 523 includes identification tag reading / writing section (NFC) 523a that performs wireless communication with identification tag 37 of each subdivision box 34, and information display / operation section (touch panel) 523b. It also includes imaging section (camera) 523c that captures the image of two-dimensional code 6 printed on medicine packet 2, and communication section 523d ​​that communicates with management terminal 510.

[0038] The memory unit 522 has a main memory device 522a such as a ROM and an auxiliary memory device 522b such as a storage. The main memory device 522a stores a startup program for starting the OS, etc. The auxiliary memory device 522b stores a medication error prevention program for preventing medication errors during medication preparation (sorting), which will be described later. The auxiliary memory device 522b also stores a plurality of medication schedules received from the management terminal 510 (e.g., Facility A, Floor A, after-lunch medication schedule; Facility A, Floor B, after-lunch medication schedule; Facility A, Floor A, before-dinner medication schedule; Facility A, Floor B, before-dinner medication schedule, etc.).

[0039] The medication management database may be received from the management terminal 510 and stored in the auxiliary storage device 522b. A medication schedule may be created from the floor information of the facility and medication timing input by the sorting worker when sorting the medicine packets 2 into the medication trays, and the medication management database stored in the auxiliary storage device 522b.

[0040] Furthermore, each time a medication distribution preparation (sorting) operation is performed, communication may be performed with the management terminal 510 to receive a corresponding medication schedule from a plurality of medication schedules stored in the management terminal 510.

[0041] FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the preparation for dispensing (sorting) of medicines performed using the operation terminal 520, and FIG. 8 shows a flowchart of the preparation for dispensing (sorting). 7(a), the preparation for dispensing (sorting) begins by selecting a medication schedule to be used in the current sorting operation from multiple medication schedules stored in the auxiliary storage device 522b, which serves as a schedule storage means. Specifically, the sorting worker who sorts the medicine packets 2 into each subdivision box 34 operates the operation terminal 520, which serves as a determination means, to execute the medication error prevention program.

[0042] When the medication error prevention program is executed, a medication schedule selection screen for inputting the facility name, floor, and medication timing is displayed on the information display / operation unit 523b, such as a touch panel. The sorter inputs the name of the facility to which the medication tray 30 is to be transported, and the floor and medication timing from the display "Floor A After Lunch Medication Tray" on the front outer wall of the medication tray 30 shown in FIG. 4. The operation terminal 520 selects a matching medication schedule from this input information and multiple medication schedules stored in the auxiliary storage device 522b (S1 in FIG. 8). At this time, if there is no medication schedule on the operation terminal 520, a message is displayed prompting the user to receive a medication schedule from the management terminal 510.

[0043] Once the medication schedule is selected from the auxiliary storage device 522b, as shown in Fig. 9, a screen instructing the operator to read the two-dimensional code image 6 printed on the medicine packet 2 is displayed on the information display / operation unit 523b such as a touch panel. As shown in Fig. 7(b), the sorting operator activates the imaging unit (camera) of the operation terminal 520, captures the two-dimensional code image 6 on the medicine packet 2, and reads the name of the recipient and the medication timing from the two-dimensional code image 6 (S2 in Fig. 8).

[0044] The operation terminal 520 compares the selected medication schedule with the name of the recipient and the medication timing read from the two-dimensional code image 6 (S3 in FIG. 8). Specifically, it checks whether the medication timing read from the two-dimensional code image 6 matches the medication timing of the selected medication schedule, and whether the name of the recipient that was read is in the medication schedule list.

[0045] If the medication timing matches and the acquired name of the recipient is in the medication schedule list (Yes in S3), the read result is displayed on the information display / operation unit 523b, as shown in Fig. 10. In the example shown in Fig. 10, medication timing 530a in the medication schedule, name of the dispenser 530b, medication timing 530c acquired from the two-dimensional code image 6 printed on the medicine packet 2, and confirmation mark 530d are displayed.

[0046] When the confirmation mark 530d in Fig. 10 is pressed, a message is displayed on the information display / operation unit 523b instructing the operator to bring the operation terminal 520 closer to the identification tag 37 where the dispensing box 34 is located. The sorter finds the dispensing box 34 on the medication tray 30, on which the name of the recipient and the timing of medication are printed and displayed on the operation terminal 520, and brings the operation terminal 250 closer to the identification tag of the dispensing box 34.

[0047] When the sorting worker brings the operation terminal 520 close to the identification tag 37 of this dispensing box 34, wireless communication is established with the identification tag 37. Then, as shown in Fig. 7(c), the name of the recipient and the timing of medication read from the two-dimensional code image 6 of the medicine packet 2 are written into the identification tag 37 (S5 in Fig. 8). When writing is complete, the information display / operation unit 523b of the operation terminal 520 displays a message instructing the user to set (store) the matched medicine packet 2 in this dispensing box 34.

[0048] After the sorting worker sets (stores) the checked medicine packets 2 in the dispensing box 34, he / she presses the confirmation button displayed on the information display / operation unit 523b of the operation terminal 520. Then, as shown in Fig. 11, the number of people for whom no writing has been done on the identification tag 37 of the dispensing box 34 (no medicine packets 2 have been set in the dispensing box) and the names of the recipients are displayed on the information display / operation unit 523b of the operation terminal 520 based on the medication schedule.

[0049] On the other hand, if the acquired medication timing differs from the medication timing in the medication schedule, or if the acquired name of the recipient is not in the medication schedule list (No in S3 in Fig. 8), a message is displayed on the operation terminal 520 indicating that the checked medicine packet 2 will not be set (S4), as shown in Fig. 12. This makes it possible to prevent a medicine packet 2 with a different medication timing from the timing at which the medicine should be administered from being set on the medication distribution tray 30, thereby preventing medication errors.

[0050] Then, for all recipients listed in the medication schedule, the names and medication timings of the recipients are written into the identification tags 37 of the dispensing boxes 34, and when there are no unregistered recipients, the operation terminal 520 displays a message indicating that the medication preparation (sorting) work has been completed (S7).

[0051] Next, a sorting inspection using the name of the recipient and the timing of medication written on the identification tag 37 of each subdivision box 34 will be described. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of the sorting and inspection device 300. 13, the sorting and inspection device 300 has a flat antenna 301, a reader / writer 302, and an inspection terminal 303. The antenna 301 performs wireless proximity communication with the identification tag 37 of each subdivision box 34 set on the medication tray 30. The reader / writer 302 reads information from the identification tag 37 and writes information to the identification tag 37.

[0052] The examination terminal 303, like a general desktop PC, is equipped with input devices such as a keyboard, pointing device (mouse, etc.), and touch panel, display device such as a display, arithmetic unit such as a CPU, and storage device such as RAM, ROM, SSD, etc. This storage device stores a plurality of medication schedules created by the management terminal 510. The examination terminal 303 checks whether the sorting work has been performed correctly by comparing the medication schedule selected by the examiner through operational input with the information on the identification tag read by the reader / writer.

[0053] In the sorting inspection, first, as shown in Fig. 14, the medication distribution tray 30 after the sorting work is placed on the antenna 301. Next, the inspector operates the inspection terminal 303 to select a matching medication schedule from multiple medication schedules stored in the storage device of the inspection terminal 303 based on the facility floor and medication timing displayed on the medication distribution tray 30. Note that an identification tag storing the same information (facility floor information and medication timing information) as the display content displayed on the medication distribution tray 30 may be provided, and the facility floor information and medication timing information may be read from this identification tag to automatically select the corresponding medication schedule.

[0054] Next, the reader / writer 302 acquires the name information of the recipient and the medication timing information written on the identification tag 37 disposed in each subdivision box 34. The acquired name information of the recipient and medication timing information are sent to the examination terminal 303. Then, a check is made to see whether the information matches the medication timing of the medication schedule selected on the examination terminal 303, and whether the acquired name of the recipient is in the medication schedule list.

[0055] Once all of the dispensing boxes 34 have been verified, the test results are displayed on a display device such as the display of the testing terminal 303. When all recipients listed in the medication schedule list have been confirmed from the identification tags 37 and the medication timings stored in all of the identification tags 37 match the medication timings of the selected medication schedule, a message is displayed on the display device of the testing terminal indicating that all of the dispensing boxes 34 have been set correctly.

[0056] On the other hand, if there is a recipient who cannot be confirmed among the recipients listed in the medication schedule, a message such as "There is no medication for Mr. / Ms. XX" or "Mr. / Ms. XX's subdivision box 34 has not been set" will be displayed on the display device of the examination terminal 303. Also, if there is a recipient who is not listed in the medication schedule list or if there is a medication timing that does not match the medication timing on the medication schedule, a message such as "Mr. / Ms. XX's subdivision box 34 has been set incorrectly" will be displayed on the display device of the examination terminal 303.

[0057] In this way, in this embodiment, after the sorting operation, the sorting inspection device 300 checks whether the medicine has been sorted correctly, which prevents the wrong medicine from reaching the recipient and prevents medication errors.

[0058] Next, confirmation when administering medicine to a recipient will be described. When administering medication to a recipient (handing over the subdivision box 34 to the recipient), a caregiver or other person administering medication to the recipient operates an operation terminal similar to the operation terminal shown in Figure 5 to execute a medication confirmation app. When the medication confirmation app is executed, a screen similar to that shown in Figure 9 is displayed on the information display / operation unit (touch panel). Based on this displayed screen, the person administering the medication starts the imaging unit (camera) to read the two-dimensional code image 6 printed on the medicine packet 2 and obtains the recipient information (name) and medication timing information.

[0059] When the recipient information (name) and medication timing information are acquired from the two-dimensional code image 6, the image shown in Fig. 15 is displayed on the information display / operation unit (touch panel) 540a of the administering person's operation terminal 540. Based on the screen shown in Fig. 15, the administering person brings the operation terminal 540 close to the identification tag 37 of the dispensing box 34 and reads the recipient information (name) and medication timing stored in the identification tag 37.

[0060] When the recipient information (name) and medication timing information stored in the identification tag 37 are read, the read recipient information (name) and medication timing information are compared with the recipient information (name) and medication timing information of the two-dimensional code image 6. If the result of the comparison shows that the read recipient information (name) and medication timing information match the recipient information (name) and medication timing information of the two-dimensional code image 6, the read result as shown in Fig. 16 is displayed on the administration terminal 540 of the administering person.

[0061] When the read result shown in FIG. 16 is displayed, the dispenser hands the dispensing box 34 to the recipient and dispenses the medicine in the medicine packet 2 stored in the dispensing box 34 to the recipient. When the recipient confirms that they have taken the medicine in the medicine packet 2 stored in the dispensing box 34, they press the confirmation button 550d shown in FIG. 16. Then, the name of the dispenser, the timing of administration, and information on administration (administered medicine) are transmitted to the management terminal 510 as the administration record. The management terminal 510 updates the database stored in the management terminal based on the received administration record information.

[0062] On the other hand, if the result of the comparison shows that the recipient information (name) and medication timing information in the identification tag 37 differ from the recipient information (name) or medication timing information in the two-dimensional code image 6, a message that medication to the recipient will be discontinued is displayed on the operation terminal 540. In addition, as medication history, the name of the person administering the medication, information that the information between the identification tag and the two-dimensional code does not match, and information that medication was not administered (no medication) are transmitted to the management terminal. The management terminal 510 updates the database stored in the management terminal based on the received medication history information.

[0063] In addition, the medication history may be written to the identification tag 37, and when the medication tray 30 is collected from the facility where the recipient is located, the device shown in Figure 13 may read the medication history from the identification tag 37 of each dispensing box and send it to the management terminal 510.

[0064] Furthermore, information about the drugs 3 packed in the drug packet 2 is also coded in the two-dimensional code image 6 of the drug packet 2, and information about the drugs to be administered at that administration timing is added to each medication schedule that is created. Then, during the medication distribution preparation (sorting) work (S203 in FIG. 5(b)) or medication distribution inspection (S204 in FIG. 5(b)), the drug information read from the two-dimensional code image 6 of the drug packet 2 or the identification tag 37 may be compared with the drug information in the medication schedule. This can prevent problems such as insufficient medication to be administered at that administration timing. Furthermore, medication management can be enhanced by adding information about the drugs administered to the recipient to the medication history.

[0065] Furthermore, information about the administering person, such as a caregiver who administers the medication to the recipient, may also be added to the identification tag 37, so that three points can be confirmed at the time of administration: the medication to be administered, the recipient, and the administering person. As a result, for example, when the identification tag is read by an operation terminal of a administering person different from the administering person stored in the identification tag 37, the reading operation terminal can contact the operation terminal of the administering person stored in the identification tag 37, or medication precautions can be displayed on the operation terminal, thereby preventing medication errors.

[0066] Next, a modification of this embodiment will be described. [Variation 1] Fig. 17 is a diagram for explaining the drug distribution preparation (sorting) of Modification 1, and Fig. 18 shows a flowchart for the drug distribution preparation (sorting) of Modification 1. Fig. 19 is a functional block diagram of the operation terminal 520 used for the drug distribution preparation (sorting) of Modification 1. This modified example 1 uses a medicine packet 2 having a wireless tag 61 that stores information about the recipient and information about the timing of administration, as shown in Figure 17(b). Differences from the embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 17 to 19.

[0067] In this modification 1, similarly to the embodiment, a medication error prevention program stored in the auxiliary storage device 522b of the operation terminal 520 is executed. Then, the information display / operation unit 523b of the operation terminal 520 is operated to select a medication schedule corresponding to the medication tray 30 (FIG. 17(a), S1 in FIG. 18).

[0068] When a medication schedule to be used for the sorting work is selected from multiple medication schedules, the information display / operation unit 523b of the operation terminal displays the following message: That is, a message instructing the user to bring the operation terminal 520 close to the wireless tag of the medicine packet 2 and read the recipient information and medication timing information stored in the wireless tag 61.

[0069] The sorter reads the recipient information and the administration timing information from the wireless tag 61 of the medicine packet 2 according to the display on the operation terminal 520 (S12 in FIG. 18). After the recipient information and the administration timing information have been read from the wireless tag 61 of the medicine packet 2, the operation terminal 520 compares the read recipient information and administration timing information with the selected administration schedule (FIG. 17(b), S13 in FIG. 18).

[0070] If the medication timing matches and the acquired name of the recipient is in the medication schedule list (Yes in S13 of Fig. 18), the information display / operation unit 523b displays the read result shown in Fig. 10. Next, the sorter presses the confirmation mark 530d of Fig. 10, and the information display / operation unit 523b of the operation terminal 520 displays a message indicating that the operation terminal should be brought close to the identification tag of the subdivision box 34 on which the displayed name of the recipient and medication timing are printed.

[0071] When the sorter brings the operation terminal 520 close to the identification tag 37 of the subdivision box 34, wireless communication is established with the identification tag 37. As a result, as shown in Fig. 17(c), the name of the recipient and the timing of administration read from the wireless tag 61 of the medicine packet 2 are written into the identification tag 37 (S15 in Fig. 18).

[0072] When writing to the identification tag 37 is completed, the screen shown in Fig. 11 is displayed on the information display / operation unit 523b of the operation terminal 520. The screen shown in Fig. 11 displays the number of people for whom no writing has been done on the identification tag 37 of the subdivision box 34 (no medicine packets 2 have been set in the subdivision box) and the names of the recipients. The number of people for whom no writing has been done and the names of the recipients are determined from the selected medication schedule.

[0073] On the other hand, if the acquired medication timing differs from the medication timing in the medication schedule, or if the acquired name of the recipient is not included in the medication schedule list (No in S13 in Figure 18), the operation terminal 520 will display a message indicating that the matched medicine packet 2 will not be set, as shown in Figure 12 above.

[0074] Then, for all recipients listed in the medication schedule, the names and medication timings of the recipients are written on the identification tags 37 of the dispensing boxes, and when there are no unregistered recipients, the operation terminal 520 displays a message indicating that the medication preparation (sorting) work has been completed (S17).

[0075] In this first modification, it is possible to prevent a medicine packet 2 with a different administration timing from the timing at which the medicine should be administered from being set on the medicine distribution tray 30, thereby preventing medication errors.

[0076] [Variation 2] FIG. 20 is a flowchart of preparation for dispensing (sorting) medicines according to the second modification. In the second modification, a management number is assigned to each recipient in the database of the management terminal 510, and the management number is written as recipient information on the identification tag of the subdivision box. In this second modification, a plurality of lists of names of recipients and management numbers corresponding to these names are created as medication schedules.

[0077] 20, in the second modification, a medication schedule listing management numbers corresponding to medicine package trays is selected on the operation terminal 520 (S21). Then, as in the embodiment, the name information of the recipient and the medication schedule are read from the two-dimensional code image 6 on the medicine package 2, and compared with the selected medication schedule (S22, S23).

[0078] If the medication timing matches and the acquired recipient's name is in the medication schedule list (Yes in S23), the operation terminal 520 is brought close to the identification tag 37 of the dispensing box 34 to which the recipient's name and medication timing label are affixed, and writing is performed. At this time, in the second modification, the management number corresponding to the recipient's name in the medication schedule is written as recipient information into the identification tag 37 together with the medication timing information (S25).

[0079] In the facility, the memory unit of the operation terminal that compares the information on the two-dimensional code image on the medicine package with the information on the identification tag stores data listing the names and control numbers of the recipients residing on the floor of the facility. This makes it possible to obtain the name information of the recipient based on the control number obtained from the identification tag as recipient information, and to compare this with the name information of the recipient as recipient information obtained from the two-dimensional code on the medicine package.

[0080] The administration number may be used as the recipient information in the two-dimensional code image 6 on the medicine packet. In this case, the medication schedule may be data that lists only the administration number.

[0081] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to such specific embodiments, and unless otherwise specifically limited in the above description, various modifications and variations are possible within the spirit and scope of the present invention as set forth in the claims.

[0082] The above description is merely an example, and each of the following aspects provides unique effects. (Aspect 1) The system is equipped with a medication tray 30 into which medication packets to be taken at the same medication timing are distributed, a storage container such as a plurality of subdivision boxes 34 that are detachably attached to the medication tray 30 and store the medication packets, medication schedule storage means (such as an auxiliary storage device 522b of the operation terminal) that stores medication schedule data that lists information about recipients who will receive medication at the same medication timing, and a determination means such as the operation terminal 520 that reads the recipient information and medication timing information from a storage means such as a code image such as a two-dimensional code image printed on the medication packet or a wireless tag attached to the medication packet, compares it with the medication schedule data stored in the medication schedule storage means, and determines whether the medication packet is one to be stored in the storage container. In Patent Document 1, a storage container, which is a small box for storing medicine packets, is detachably arranged in each compartment to facilitate administering medicine to a recipient. This allows a caregiver, for example, to remove the storage container from the medication tray, take it to the recipient, remove the medicine packet stored in the storage container, and administer the medicine to the recipient. In addition, by attaching a label to the storage container, when administering the medicine to the recipient, a caregiver or other medication provider can read the two-dimensional code printed on the label and check the text information printed on the label regarding the recipient's name and the timing of administration, thereby preventing accidental ingestion of medicine. However, because the storage container can be removed from the medication tray, there is a risk that a storage container with a different administration timing from the administration timing set in the medication tray may be set in the medication tray when dispensing the medicine packets. After dispensing the medicine to the recipient, the dispensing box checks the administration timing information printed on the label and returns it to the medication tray with the matching administration timing. However, for example, because the administration timing "before lunch" and the administration timing "after lunch" differ by only one character, it is easy to make a mistake, such as setting the "after lunch" subdivision box in the "before lunch" medication tray. In Patent Document 1, the medicine package to be dispensed into the storage container is specified based on recipient information and medication timing information recorded in a two-dimensional code printed on a label attached to the storage container. Therefore, if a storage container with a medication timing different from the medication timing set in the medication tray is set in the medication tray, there is a risk that a medicine package with a medication timing different from the medication timing that should originally be dispensed will be dispensed. In contrast, in aspect 1, a determination means is provided that compares the code image printed on the medicine package or the recipient information acquired from the storage means provided on the medicine package with the medication schedule data stored in the schedule storage means and determines whether or not the medicine package is to be dispensed to a storage container placed in a medicine dispensing tray.As a result, when dispensing a medicine package to a storage container placed in a medicine dispensing tray (putting the medicine package into the storage container), the determination means determines whether or not the medicine package is to be dispensed to the storage container, thereby making it possible to prevent medicine packages with a dosage timing different from the dosage timing set in the medicine dispensing tray from being dispensed to the medicine dispensing tray.

[0083] (Aspect 2) In aspect 1, each storage container such as dispensing box 34 is provided with a container memory means such as identification tag 37, and when drug package 2 is a drug package to be dispensed into the storage container, a determination means such as operation terminal 520 writes recipient information and drug administration timing information into the container memory means of the storage container that stores the drug package. According to this, as explained in the embodiment, after the completion of the medication preparation (sorting) work, it is possible to check whether the medication packets have been sorted correctly using the recipient information and medication timing information stored in container storage means such as the identification tag 37 of the storage container such as each dispensing box 34. Furthermore, at the facility where the recipient is staying, it is possible to check whether the medication to be administered is correct by comparing the recipient information and medication timing information stored in container storage means such as the identification tag 37 of the storage container such as the dispensing box with the recipient information and medication timing information read from a code image such as the two-dimensional code image 6 printed on the medication packet 2 or from storage means such as the wireless tag 61 attached to the medication packet 2.

[0084] (Aspect 3) In the second aspect, the container storage means provided in each storage container such as a dispensing box is a wireless tag such as the identification tag 37. This allows recipient information and administration timing information acquired from the medicine packet 2 to be written via wireless communication.

[0085] (Aspect 4) In the second or third embodiment, the recipient information written to the container storage means such as the identification tag 37 is a management number set for each recipient, or recipient information obtained from a medicine packet. This allows for medication inspection after medication preparation (sorting) is complete, and confirmation before administering medication to the recipient, using the patient information obtained from the management number and medication package. Also, even if there are recipients with the same name, medication can be distributed without error.

[0086] (Aspect 5) In any of the aspects 1 to 4, a display means such as an information display / operation unit 523b that displays the determination result of a determination means such as the operation terminal 520 is provided. According to this, as described in the embodiment, based on the judgment result displayed on a display means such as the information display / operation unit 523b, it is possible to cancel the dispensing of the checked medicine package to the medicine dispensing tray 30.

[0087] (Aspect 6) In any of the first to fifth aspects, the code image printed on the medicine packet is a two-dimensional code, and the storage means provided on the medicine packet 2 is a wireless tag. This allows recipient information and administration timing information to be easily read from the medicine packet 2, as described in the embodiment. [Explanation of symbols]

[0088] 2: cartridge 2a: Bag part 3: Drugs 4: Crimping section 6: 2D code image 8: Stapled 30: Medication tray 31: Partition wall 32: Bottom wall 33: Section 34: Small box 35 :Structure 35a: Bottom wall 36: Label 36a:Medicine recipient information 36b: Medication timing information 37: Identification tag 61: Wireless tag 200: Medicine distribution device 250: Operation terminal 300: Sorting and inspection equipment 301: Antenna 302: Reader / Writer 303: Inspection terminal 500: Medication preparation (sorting) system 510: Management terminal 520: Operation terminal [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0089] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-172887

Claims

1. A medication tray that distributes medication packets to be taken at the same time, a plurality of storage containers configured to be detachable from the medication tray and in which the medicine packets are stored; a medication schedule storage means for storing medication schedule data that lists information on recipients who receive medication at the same medication timing; A medication management system characterized by comprising a determination means for reading recipient information and medication timing information from a code image printed on the medicine package or from a storage means provided on the medicine package, comparing the information with the medication schedule data stored in the medication schedule storage means, and determining whether the medicine package is a medicine package to be stored in the storage container.

2. The medication management system according to claim 1, Each storage vessel is provided with a vessel memory means, A medication management system characterized in that, when the medicine package is a medicine package to be stored in the storage container, the determination means writes information about the recipient and medication timing information into the container memory means of the storage container that stores the medicine package.

3. The medication management system according to claim 2, A medication management system, wherein the container memory means provided in each storage container is a wireless tag.

4. The medication management system according to claim 2, A medication management system characterized in that the recipient information written to the container memory means is a management number set for each recipient or recipient information obtained from the medicine package.

5. The medication management system according to claim 1, A medication management system comprising a display means for displaying the determination result of the determination means.

6. The medication management system according to claim 1, A medication management system, characterized in that the code image added to the medicine package is a two-dimensional code, and the storage means provided on the medicine package is a wireless tag.

Images