Bathing system for bedridden patients

Abstract

This application describes a system developed to enable bathing of bedridden patients. The system consists of a set of devices and accessories adapted and configured to ensure that bedridden patients can bathe safely and comfortably and meet all antibacterial and antiviral safety standards. The system consists of a docking station, a mobile unit with an antimicrobial coating composition, and a cover that is placed over the bed on which the patient lies.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001] (Technical field) This application describes a system developed to enable bathing of a person lying in bed.

[0002] (Background technology) Document WO2018126347A1 describes a bathing care bed including a nursing bed (10) and a bathing bed (20) provided on the nursing bed (10). The nursing bed (10) is provided with an outlet (13), and the bathing bed (20) is provided with a thin-layer expandable space (23) consisting of a bottom layer (22) and a surface layer (21), and a loop layer (24) surrounding the thin-layer expandable space (23); when the bathing bed (20) is not inflated, the bathing bed can be easily laid on the nursing bed (10), and when the bathing bed is inflated, the loop layer (24) inflates to form an enclosure body and becomes higher than the thin-layer expandable space (23) to form a bathtub; further, the headrest body (25), the lumbar pad body (26) and the leg pad body (27) on the surface layer (21) also inflates to lift the patient, thereby facilitating the nursing staff to wash the patient's body; the bath water automatically flows toward the outlet (211), and is then collected and led to the outlet (13) and flows into the water collecting tub (14). Therefore, the present invention can directly and quickly help the patient to take a warm bath on the nursing bed (10), which is convenient and humane to use.

[0003] Document CN106344304A describes a nursing bed for bedridden patients, which has a bathing function and a urine and feces cleansing function. A bathing device, a turning device, an excretion device and a sewage tank are arranged on the bed body, and the bed surface adopts a fine screen-like medical silica gel structure; the bathing device includes a hair washing section and a foot washing section, and the hair washing section includes a head support plate embedded in the bed surface; the foot washing section is composed of a foot wash basin cover plate and a foot wash basin, and the foot wash basin cover plate is embedded in the bed surface; the turning device includes a left turning mechanism and a right turning mechanism that adopt the same structure, and the left turning mechanism and the right turning mechanism tilt the shoulder support plate, the waist support plate and the buttock support plate to perform turning by driving the turning handle; the excretion device includes an excretion bed toilet cover plate and an excretion bed toilet, and the excretion bed toilet cover plate is embedded in the bed surface. This nursing bed integrates a toilet function, solving the problems of conventional nursing beds that are inconvenient to use and have only one function, greatly improving the happiness index of patients and allowing them to have confidence in their lives.

[0004] (summary) The present invention describes a system for bathing a bedridden patient, comprising: a mobile unit; and a cover installed on a bed on which the patient is lying; said mobile unit is configured to supply mixed water to the lying patient to enable bathing of said patient, said cover adapted to promote protection of said bed and retain the mixed water to be absorbed by said patient within a defined area defined by said cover.

[0005] In a proposed embodiment, the system developed comprises a docking station configured to receive and couple to the mobile unit and facilitate at least one of refilling the hot water reservoir, refilling the cold water reservoir, refilling the disinfectant reservoir, refilling the shower gel reservoir or energy charging of a control unit of the mobile unit.

[0006] The present invention also describes a mobile unit for bathing bedridden patients, comprising at least one of a hot water reservoir, a cold water reservoir and a control unit.

[0007] In a proposed embodiment, the control unit of the mobile unit is configured to provide mixed water to a lying patient within a temperature range of 29°C to 38°C.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment, the mobile unit comprises a wastewater reservoir configured to receive mixed patient wastewater through a drain valve provided in the cover.

[0009] In a proposed embodiment, the mobile unit comprises a shower gel reservoir, a disinfectant reservoir and an ultraviolet disinfection lamp.

[0010] The present invention also describes a docking station for receiving and connecting a mobile unit for bathing bedridden patients as described in any of the previous claims, the docking station comprising at least one of a charging unit, a power supply unit, an admission microfilter, an ultraviolet disinfection lamp and a heating unit.

[0011] In a proposed embodiment, the docking station includes a disinfectant reservoir, a shower gel reservoir, and an output microfilter.

[0012] In a proposed embodiment, the docking station comprises a water pressure connector configured to fill the hot water reservoir with water provided by the heating unit; a water pressure connector configured to fill the cold water reservoir with water provided by an input microfilter connected to a tap; a disinfectant connector configured to fill the disinfectant reservoir with disinfectant provided by the disinfectant reservoir; a shower gel connector configured to fill the shower gel reservoir with shower gel provided by the shower gel reservoir; a control unit electromagnetic lock; and a set of electrical connectors.

[0013] The present invention also describes a cover comprising: a rectangular central portion including a pair of upper and lower wings located on each of the narrowest sides of the rectangular central portion; a pair of side wings located on each of the longest sides of the rectangular central portion; and at least one drain valve, wherein the pair of upper and lower wings and the pair of side wings are seamlessly connected to the rectangular central portion, and further comprising longitudinal connection points that can couple the upper and lower wings to each of the side wings.

[0014] In a proposed embodiment, the longitudinal connection points of the cover include adjustment elements located within the connection points to facilitate adaptation of the cover to various existing bed mattress shapes and styles, or various existing bed type shapes and styles.

[0015] In a proposed embodiment, the upper and lower wings of the cover are supported by the headboard and footboard of a bed respectively and are adjusted and fitted to the bed by the adjustment elements to facilitate the formation of a bathtub-shaped container surrounding the patient all around.

[0016] In a proposed embodiment, the cover comprises a hydrophobic textile composition having antibacterial and antiviral properties.

[0017] The present invention also describes a coating composition having antimicrobial activity, comprising 80-99.95% (w / w) of a water-based acrylic resin and 0.05-20% (w / w) of at least one antimicrobial agent.

[0018] In a proposed embodiment, the water-based acrylic of the coating composition is a water-based acrylic copolymerized with styrene.

[0019] In a proposed embodiment, the antimicrobial agent of the coating composition is selected from metal nanoparticles with a diameter of 20-200 nm.

[0020] In a proposed embodiment, the metal nanoparticles of the coating composition are silver, TiO2 or CuO nanoparticles.

[0021] In a proposed embodiment, the antimicrobial agent of the coating composition is selected from biguanides such as chlorhexidine digluconate and poly(hexamethylenebicyanoguanide-hexamethylenediamine) hydrochloride.

[0022] In a proposed embodiment, the composition of the coating further comprises a quaternary ammonium compound in a concentration of up to 20% (w / w).

[0023] In a proposed embodiment, the quaternary ammonium compound of the coating composition is selected from ester quats.

[0024] In a proposed embodiment, the composition of the coating further comprises a rheology modifier in a concentration of 0.1-5% (w / w).

[0025] In a proposed embodiment, the coating composition is used as a surface coating for the mobile units disclosed above.

[0026] (General Description) The present application describes a system that includes a set of devices and accessories adapted and configured to enable bathing of a person lying in bed.

[0027] Although any healthy person could be considered as a user of the system, the main focus is on patients whose clinical condition makes it impossible to bathe in a normal environment, i.e. in a standing position. The developed system therefore allows bathing of bedridden patients, for example in a hospital environment, without resorting to large movements or transfers of the patient, which not only brings great inconvenience to the patient but also may worsen their clinical condition due to exposure to the hospital environment, which may introduce new infectious diseases.

[0028] From a holistic perspective, the system comprises a set of devices and accessories that are combined and adapted to solve the problem of bathing bedridden patients safely and comfortably.

[0029] Thus, the system developed includes a mobile unit, a docking station, and a dedicated cover.

[0030] One of the main and fundamental components of this system is the bed cover. Its special design and its composition of elements and fibers specially studied and adapted for the purpose of this solution make it possible to obtain a component with substantial advantages when compared to other similar existing products. The proposed cover is designed to handle two purposes, namely, to completely replace the function of the bed sheet by a waterproof, fully hydrophobic, breathable, elastic, antibacterial and antiviral cover in any possible arrangement, and also to be placed in a bathtub format, simply by correctly positioning the existing anchor points on the patient's bed. When laid in the sheet position, its design allows it to fit correctly on the mattress of the bed, without wrinkling underneath due to excess material, and to stretch completely on the upper surface of the mattress. As mentioned above, in addition to the advantages mentioned with regard to the replacement of the bed sheet, this cover also allows the protection of the bed on which the patient lies, allowing him not only to enjoy a comfortable bath in exactly the same position in which he is laid, but also to act as a protective cover in case of physiological inattention. Thanks to the structural features of the cover, any liquid that adheres to its surface can be easily removed using a cloth or absorbent compound, all while ensuring antiviral and antibacterial properties, thus guaranteeing a perfect germ-free environment. The developed cover model is not only applicable to hospital beds, but is perfectly and easily adjustable to any type of bed, including the headboard and footboard, requiring only dimensional adjustments of the cover, but easily provided by its adjustable design. The bathtub layout feature realized by this cover is that it is possible to form a watertight enclosure for this purpose, without the use of side rails, using only the upper and lower headboards of a standard articulated hospital bed, thanks to the design and position of the anchor points and seams, specially studied and developed. The absence of the bed's side rails is associated with a better access to the patient for the medical professional and / or assistant, thus minimizing the impact on mobility caused by the position of these grids and allowing a better approach to the patient during the bath application task.Between the headboard and the footboard, a vertical liquid-retaining wall is provided, which includes an intermediate recess designed and developed to allow easy access for the users of the cover, especially the medical staff, and to increase the mobility of their work regarding the patient's bathing process. The cover is made up of a two-layer structure of a high-tech woven mesh and a breathable substrate. The mesh includes a circular knit and is treated with a special antimicrobial treatment finish with dispersing agents, allowing the formation of a coating that is extremely durable, uniform and non-migratory, with the ability to kill microorganisms on contact.

[0031] The cover also includes the installation of a drainage system for bath water, characterized by at least one drain valve located in a position that allows for the effective drainage of wastewater resulting from the process, which can be made more efficient and faster, assisted by a mechanism for adjusting the inclination of the bed. The effectiveness of the performance of this drainage system can be increased while operating on beds equipped with common modern inclination mechanisms. The cover further includes a unique digital identifier that is subsequently associated with the lying patient, which allows identification by the mobile unit and allows determining the history of bath application of said patient to automatically adjust the bath parameters to the patient's condition. Such a unique digital identifier may consist of any of QR codes, bar codes, RFID, NFC, etc.

[0032] In addition to the bed cover, the presence of a mobile unit is a fundamental part of the system, to allow bathing. This mobile unit contains a set of equipment and solutions for bathing, provides all the necessary infrastructure to realize in-bed bathing, is operationally controlled by an internal control system and facilitates the movement of the patient between bathing points through a locomotor system. In terms of functionality, this mobile unit is able to remotely apply a set of baths through a shower-type water supply device and also to collect the water leaving said baths through a drainage system on the bed cover. Structurally, this unit incorporates normal hot and cold water transport, an ultraviolet disinfection system, waste water, shower gel and disinfectant, and is able to set the bathing parameters to be applied to the patient, including the setting of the water temperature. These bathing parameters can be automatically associated with a unique digital identifier, so that when they are scanned, the mobile unit is automatically set without the need for the intervention of the operator and / or caregiver. The purpose of using the disinfectant is to ensure a permanent and continuous disinfection of the waste water tank of the mobile unit and to minimize the occurrence of bacteria and / or viruses inside the machine. The internal design of the unit ensures safety in case of system failure, and the use of valves and gravity ensures that clean water is always kept sterile. The temperature of the water discharged through the shower to the patient is between 36°C and 42°C and may contain a percentage of dissolved gel bath. Furthermore, all water discharged through the mobile unit, whether hot or cold, is not only filtered and disinfected with ultraviolet light as it enters the mobile unit's tank, but is also exposed to ultraviolet light by a lamp to ensure sterilization before it is finally used by the user. The mobile unit also includes a digital reader configured to ensure the reading of a unique digital identifier present on the cover.

[0033] Furthermore, the mobile unit includes a set of sensors that, by means of wireless probes attached directly to the patient, make it possible to determine several vital parameters and to analyze the effect of the bath on the patient's body and the vital stability, which are then transmitted to the mobile unit. Among the various parameters analyzed internally in the mobile unit are data such as the duration of the shower, the temperature of the water used, the identity of the patient who took the shower, etc.

[0034] Using wireless probes, at least cardiac parameters, respiratory and body temperature data are acquired. The acquisition of vital parameters during the shower allows a statistical analysis of the patient's clinical condition and shower parameters, allowing it to be determined which clinical outcomes correlate with shower temperature in order to determine the optimal application conditions.

[0035] The mobile unit has antibacterial and antiviral protection provided by applying a coating composition to its surface. The coating composition ensures compliance with these properties, preventing the spread of these agents in the hospital environment and allowing the mobile unit to be moved between non-contiguous spaces and / or treatment units. The unit also incorporates a localization system using 3D Bluetooth® technology, allowing the unit to pinpoint its exact location within a given space and, at a later date, if necessary, to determine possible transmission patterns. This tracking technology can also be applied to patients and healthcare workers, making it possible to determine who has been exposed to potential transmission scenarios of bacteria and viruses.

[0036] Furthermore, it is also possible to find a docking station incorporating the developed system, which is adapted to the coupling of the mobile unit and which is able to perform many appropriate tasks automatically, without the user's intervention. This device is ideally placed outside the patient room and is mainly intended to fill the mobile unit with clean hot and clean cold water, refill the shower gel, disinfectant, charge the battery, drain the waste water collected during the bathing process and provide the machine's internal cleaning cycle. The clean water inlet includes a connection to the supply network and is composed of a filter that facilitates the filtration of the incoming clean water, this water passing through a UV filter before being transferred to the mobile unit. The hot clean water circuit includes a heating unit, which ensures the heating of this water to a temperature above 60 °C, thus suppressing the potential growth of microorganisms. It is filtered again by a microfilter before being sent to the mobile unit.

[0037] The connection between the mobile unit and the docking station incorporates a set of automated steps including emptying the dirty water tank, applying a disinfectant cycle with a disinfectant in said tank, and emptying potential volumes of the hot and cold water tanks for refilling.

[0038] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS For a better understanding of the present application, figures illustrating preferred embodiments are attached herewith, which are not intended to limit the technology disclosed herein.

[0039] FIG. 1 shows one possible embodiment of the proposed and developed system (100), with reference numbers relating to the following: 100 - system; 200 - bed; 201 - bedspreads; 202 - Faucet / Shower; 203 - drain valve cover; 300 - mobile units; 301 - hot water reservoir; 3010 - Hot water reservoir temperature sensor; 3011 - hot water tank level sensor; 3012 - Hot water reservoir input solenoid valve; 3013 - Hot water reservoir outlet solenoid valve; 302 - cold water reservoir; 3020 - cold water reservoir temperature sensor; 3021 - cold water reservoir level sensor; 3022 - cold water reservoir input solenoid valve; 3023 - cold water reservoir outlet solenoid valve; 3024 - 3-way valve electromagnetic mixer; 303 - sewage reservoir; 3030 - Sewage reservoir disinfectant sprinkler; 3031 - Wastewater reservoir level sensor; 3032 - Sewage reservoir sewage grinder pump; 3033 - Solenoid valve (input); 304 - control unit; 3041 - control unit electromagnetic lock; 305 - shower gel reservoir; 3050 - Shower gel reservoir level sensor; 3051 - Reservoir input pump for shower gel; 3052 - Shower gel reservoir outlet pump; 3053 One-way valves; 306 - disinfectant reservoir; 3060 - Disinfectant reservoir level sensor; 3061 - Disinfectant reservoir input pump; 3062 - Disinfectant reservoir outlet pump; 307 - UV disinfection lamps; 3071 - Shower water pressure pump; 3072 - shower water temperature sensor; 3073 - Shower solenoid valve 400 - Docking Station 401 - disinfectant reservoir; 4011 - disinfection connector; 402 - shower gel reservoir; 4021 - Shower gel connector 403 - charging unit; 404 - Power supply unit 4041 - Electrical Connectors 405 - output microfilter; 4051 - hydraulic connector; 406 - heating equipment; 4061 - hydraulic connector; 407 - UV disinfection lamps; 4071 - UV control unit; 408 - Input / Input Microfilter; 500 - drainage system; 501 - Sewer.

[0040] FIG. 2 shows a combination of a mobile unit and a docking station, where the reference numbers are as follows: 300 - mobile units; 400 - Docking station.

[0041] FIG. 3 shows diagrammatically the mobile units being transported towards the patient via medical staff or operators, the reference numbers being indicated as follows: 300 - mobile units; 600 - Operator.

[0042] FIG. 4 shows diagrammatically a possible arrangement of the mobile units in the vicinity of the bed on which the patient lies, the reference numbers being designated as follows: 200 - bed; 201 - bedspreads; 300 - mobile units; 600 - operator; 700 - patient.

[0043] FIG. 5 diagrammatically shows a possible arrangement of the mobile units in use to provide bathing assistance to a reclining patient, with reference numbers indicating as follows: 200 - bed; 201 - bedspreads; 202 - Faucet / Shower; 203 - Drain valve cover; 300 - mobile units; 600 - operator; 700 - patient.

[0044] FIG. 6 shows a 2D schematic of the proposed bed cover, with reference numbers as follows: 201 - bedspreads; 203 - drain valve cover; 205 - the middle part of the bedspread; 206 - side wings of bedspread; 207 - Bedspread upper / lower wing; 210 - triangular piece; 211 - central confluence; 212 - Connection point.

[0045] FIG. 7 shows a 3D diagram of the proposed bed cover, with reference numbers as follows: 200 - bed; 201 - bedspreads; 203 - drain valve cover; 205 - the middle part of the bedspread; 206 - side wings of bedspread; 207 - Bedspread upper / lower wing; 212 - connection points; 213 - Adjustment elements.

[0046] FIG. 8 shows diagrammatically the proposed bed cover and the shape it would have when applied to a bed structure with a headboard and a footboard, with reference numbers indicating as follows: 200 - bed; 201 - bedspreads; 203 - drain valve cover; 205 - the middle part of the bedspread; 206 - side wings of bedspread; 207 - Bedspread upper / lower wing; 212 - connection points; 213 - Adjustment elements.

[0047] (Description of the embodiment) Some embodiments will be described in more detail below with reference to the figures, but are not intended to limit the scope of the present application.

[0048] The particular embodiment of the system (100) disclosed herein is aimed at enabling bathing of a user or patient (700) lying on a bed (200). This task can be achieved by using a mobile unit (300) specially developed for this purpose, which incorporates a complete set of equipment for bathing the patient (700) safely and comfortably while lying on the bed (200). In combination with the use of the mobile unit (300), this task can be achieved simply by using a hydrophobic bed cover (201) that is suitable and simultaneously compatible with both the bed mattress structure and the structure surrounding the bed (200).

[0049] In one proposed embodiment of the present invention, the overall system (100) is comprised of a mobile unit (300), a bed cover (201), and a docking station (400), all of which are capable of operating independently of each other.

[0050] As shown in Fig. 1, the mobile unit (300) includes a hot water reservoir (301), a cold water reservoir (302), a dirty water reservoir (303), a control unit (304), a shower gel reservoir (305), a disinfectant reservoir (306) and an ultraviolet disinfection lamp (307). The control unit (304) is configured to provide a safe shower bath based on a combination of elements including hot water, cold water, gel and disinfectant to a patient (700) lying on a bed with a bed cover (201) through the water outlet (202), the mixed water being further disinfected by irradiation with ultraviolet light before being applied to the patient. The mobile unit (300), particularly the reservoirs and the control unit, are filled by the docking station (400) when the unit (300) is attached thereto. The docking station (400) includes a disinfectant liquid reservoir (401), a shower gel reservoir (402), a charging unit (403), a power supply unit (404), an output microfilter (405), a heating unit (406), an ultraviolet disinfection lamp (407), and an input microfilter (408). The input microfilter (408) is connected to a tap. The hot water reservoir (301) is filled with hot water provided by the heating unit (406), and this connection between the mobile unit (300) and the docking station (400) is ensured via a water pressure connector (4051) and an input solenoid valve (3012) that controls the intake of water. An output microfilter (405) is enclosed between the water pressure connector (4051) and the heating unit (406) of the docking station (400). The cold water reservoir (302) is filled with cold water provided by the tap, which is filtered through a set of input microfilters (408) and a disinfection lamp (407) controlled by a control unit (4071); this connection between the mobile unit (300) and the docking station (400) is ensured via a water pressure connector (4061). The heating unit (406) is also supplied with filtered water through a set of input microfilters (408) and a disinfection lamp (407).The disinfectant reservoir (306) is filled by the disinfectant reservoir (401) contained in the docking station (401) by means of a connector (4011) and further assisted by an input pump (3061). The disinfectant reservoir (306) of the mobile unit (300) is also provided with a level sensor (3060) for warning of the need to refill the unit. The control unit (304) of the mobile unit (300) includes an electromagnetic lock (3041) configured to ensure coupling with the docking station (400) and also facilitates the power supply by the charging unit (403) and the power supply unit (404) via a set of electrical connectors (4041). The shower gel reservoir (305) of the mobile unit (300) is filled by the shower gel reservoir (402) of the docking station (400) by means of a connector (4021) and an input pump (3051) which ensures its filling speed. The gel reservoir (305) is provided with a level sensor (3050) that warns of the need to refill the unit. The wastewater reservoir (303) of the mobile unit (300) includes a set of inlets, including a disinfectant inlet and a wastewater inlet, said wastewater coming from a drain valve (203) provided in the cover (201). Disinfectant is sprayed onto the wastewater contained in the reservoir (303) via a disinfectant sprayer (3030). The reservoir (303) is also provided with a level sensor (3031) to warn the user of the mobile unit (300) of the need to empty it through a provided outlet. This draining procedure of the reservoir (303) relies on a drainage system (500) that is located in a separate, independent location or is included in the docking station (400), which is connected to an existing sewerage system (501). Wastewater transport between the reservoir (300) and the drainage system (500) is assisted by a sewage grinder pump (3032) interconnecting both elements.

[0051] The water outlet (202) delivers a suitable mixed water to the patient (700) lying on the bed (200) including the bed cover (201). The temperature of this mixed water is controlled by mixing cold water from the reservoir (302) with hot water from the reservoir (301). Both water sources are combined through a three-way valve electromagnetic mixer (3024), the inlet of which is controlled by the hot water reservoir outlet solenoid valve (3013) and the cold water reservoir outlet solenoid valve (3023). The water temperature is controlled through a temperature sensor (3072) placed in the supply water circuit after the ultraviolet disinfection lamp (307) which is fed by a water pressure pump (3071) directly connected to the outlet of the three-way valve electromagnetic mixer (3024). Before being dispensed to the patient, the mixed water is supplemented with shower gel, if necessary, which is fed from the reservoir (305). The shower gel supply circuit includes a one-way valve (3053) connected to an outlet pump (3052) which is supplied directly from said reservoir (305). The final mixed water supplied from the outlet (202) is ensured by the operation of both the one-way valve (3053) and the shower water solenoid valve (3073).

[0052] Both the mobile unit (300) and the docking station (400) may contain an arrangement of state-of-the-art electronic components that allow the user of these devices to configure and operate all of the functionality inherent in their operation. Within these devices one may consider controllers, actuators, electro-hydraulic elements, pumps, valves, keypads, push buttons, tactile screens, communication systems, energy storage systems, data processing systems, data storage systems, etc.

[0053] As can be visually recognized through the analysis of Figures 4, 5, 7 and 8, the cover (201) is adaptable to the external structure of the bed (200) and, through its physical application to the headboard and footboard of said bed (200) and through connection points appropriately developed and adjusted for this purpose, the cover (201) allows the cover (201) to obtain the shape and functionality of a bathtub using a hydrophobic textile composition. To further ensure the sterility of the environment, the textile of the cover (201) also exhibits antibacterial and antiviral properties. Each of the side wings (206) of said structure (201) includes a recess for easy access of the operator (600) to the patient (700), while preventing bath water from inadvertently getting outside the bathtub.

[0054] In Fig. 4, it can be seen that the bed cover (201) is properly fitted to the bed mattress. In one proposed embodiment, the bed cover (201) includes the use of two laminated layers of woven mesh and a breathable substrate, the breathable substrate imparting hydrophobic, antiviral and antibacterial properties to the woven fabric. It is possible to see the cover (201) in a particular arrangement and cut style that can achieve the results and advantages described above in the depicted Fig. 6.

[0055] The cut shape of the bed cover (201) is a seamless rectangular piece of fabric in the central area (205) where the patient (700) lies. This shape dimensionally ensures that it can be adapted to the perimeter of the bed mattress, as well as to the headboard and footboard of said bed (200) by using the existing upper and lower wings (207). Each side of the cover (201), especially the longest side and the central location (211), is fitted with two pieces of hydrophobic fabric (210) of the same type of material as the rectangular / bed shaped fabric (205) cut into right-angled triangles. These are placed in a mirror image manner so as to overlap the hypotenuses of the aforementioned triangular pieces (210). The two combined triangular pieces (210) form the side wings (206) of the bed cover (201). In addition to this overlap, the bottom of the triangular pieces, i.e. the bottom of the side wings (206), merge with the center of the fabric (205). In fact, all parts of the cover (201) are made of hydrophobic fabric, i.e. the center of the bedspread (205), the side wings (206) of the bedspread and the top / bottom wings (207).

[0056] This double connection of the triangles on both sides of the cover (201) forms two side wings (206) that allow the liquid to be kept inside the overall mounting structure of the cover (201). This structure is achieved by a clear and studied positioning of the connection points (212) illustrated in Figure 6, which at the same time ensures the adaptation to the bed mattress as well as the support structure of the bed. It must be considered that this proposed embodiment of the cover (201) is only one of several possible ways to obtain a cover, showing that it can be dimensionally adapted to almost any structure and bed type by tailor-made adjustments, since the presence of a pronounced headboard and footboard is guaranteed. The connection points (212) of the side wings (206) of the cover (201) include two triangular pieces (210), which are further connected to the upper and lower ends of the central piece, i.e., to the upper and lower wings of the cover (201). Each of the triangular pieces (210) configured on each side wing (206) of the bedspread (201) includes a set of connection points (212) located at its longest side, i.e., along the hypotenuse at a predetermined distance from the side, at the junction between the two triangles (210), and laterally along the base where it joins with the central portion (205), also at a predetermined distance from the side. The connection points (212) located laterally at the base of the triangular pieces (210) of the opposing side wings (206) are connected together by existing continuous connections on both the top / bottom wings (207) of the bedspread (201), and the existing connection points (212) along the hypotenuse of said triangular pieces (210) further join together at a central junction point (211). As clearly shown in Figures 5 and 8, when fitted to the bed (200), the cover (201) supported by the headboard and footboard defines a bathtub shape with recessed side wings (206) at a central point (211). Furthermore, to obtain the shape shown in Figure 8 in particular, the cover (201) includes adjustment elements (213) located within the connection points (212) that facilitate the adaptation of the cover (201) to the shapes and formats of various existing bed (200) types.

[0057] As can also be seen in Figures 6, 7 and 8, it is possible to identify the presence of at least one drainage point, identified as a cover drain valve (203), which is ideally located at one end of the cover to allow for beneficial drainage.

[0058] In another aspect of the invention, a coating composition with antimicrobial activity suitable for application to mobile units is described, which has antibacterial and antiviral properties and is suitable for providing protection against these pathogens, preventing their spread in hospital environments and allowing the movement of the mobile units between non-contiguous spaces and / or treatment units.

[0059] The coating composition includes a water-based acrylic resin and at least one antimicrobial agent.

[0060] In one embodiment, the water-based acrylic resin is copolymerized with styrene.

[0061] The selection of a water-based resin did not impair the quick drying property, and it was shown to be advantageous compared to solvent-based acrylic resins when applied to plastic substrates.

[0062] These antimicrobial agents are present in the coating composition at a concentration of 0.05 to 20% (w / w).

[0063] In one embodiment, the antimicrobial agent is selected from metal nanoparticles (NPs). In one embodiment, the metal nanoparticles are silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with a diameter of 20-200 nm. In another embodiment, the metal nanoparticles are TiO2 or CuO.

[0064] In one embodiment, the coating composition comprises 0.05-20% (w / w) AgNPs or TiO2 or CuO nanoparticles.

[0065] In another embodiment, the antimicrobial agent may also be selected from biguanides such as chlorhexidine digluconate and poly(hexamethylenebicyanoguanide-hexamethylenediamine) hydrochloride.

[0066] In one embodiment, the coating composition comprises 80-99.95% (w / w) of a water-based acrylic resin and 0.05-20% (w / w) of at least one antimicrobial agent.

[0067] The pH of water-based acrylic resins is not altered by the addition of metal nanoparticles, especially AgNPs. Thus, AgNPs and other NPs are compatible additives to water-based acrylic resins and can impart antimicrobial activity.

[0068] In one embodiment, the coating composition has a pH of 7-9.

[0069] Microbiological data show that AgNPs have proven their effectiveness against gram+, gram- and fungi. To enhance this activity and broaden the range of microorganisms affected, quaternary ammonium compounds can be added to the coating composition.

[0070] Quaternary ammonium compounds are one of the most used compounds for disinfection and sterilization due to their wide spectrum of action. However, these compounds have major drawbacks, such as poor biodegradability and high toxicity to the aquatic environment. To overcome this drawback, more biodegradable quaternary ammonium compounds, such as esterquats, have been developed. These are widely used in the cosmetics and detergent industries and are potential antimicrobial agents.

[0071] In one embodiment, optionally, a quaternary ammonium compound is further present in the coating composition at a concentration of up to 20% (w / w).

[0072] In one embodiment, an ester quat compound may be further added to the coating composition at 1-1000 mg / L.

[0073] The coating composition was shown to adhere well to the surface of the transfer unit.

[0074] The coating composition containing a water-based acrylic resin, metal nanoparticles and a quaternary ammonium compound is suitable for application to the system of the present invention because of its physicochemical properties, which include good adhesion to the surface, quick drying, and the formation of a water-resistant coating.

[0075] In some applications, it may be necessary to further add a rheology modifier to increase the viscosity of the coating composition. The rheology modifier can be selected from water-soluble derivatives of cellulose, such as hydroxyethyl cellulose or hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose. Also included are other water-soluble polymers, such as polyethylene glycol, polyacrylic acid, polyvinyl alcohol, etc.

[0076] In one embodiment, the rheology modifier is present in the coating composition at 0.1-5% (w / w). [Brief description of the drawings]

[0077] [Figure 1] One possible embodiment of the proposed and developed system (100) is shown. [Diagram 2] 1 shows a combination mobile unit and docking station. [Diagram 3] 1 shows a schematic representation of a mobile unit being transported towards a patient via medical staff or an operator. [Figure 4] 1 shows a schematic diagram of a possible arrangement of mobile units in the vicinity of a bed on which a patient lies; [Diagram 5] 13A-13D are schematic diagrams illustrating possible configurations of the mobile units in use to provide bathing assistance to a reclining patient; [Figure 6] A 2D diagram of the proposed bed cover is shown. [Figure 7] A 3D diagram of the proposed bed cover is shown. [Figure 8] 1 shows a diagram of a proposed bed cover and the shape it would have when applied to a bed structure with a headboard and footboard.

Claims

1. A mobile unit (300); A cover (201) to be placed on the bed (200) on which the patient (700) lies; the mobile unit (300) is configured to supply mixed water to the lying patient (700) to enable bathing of the patient (700); The cover (201) is adapted to promote protection of the bed (200) and keeps the mixed water that is to be absorbed by the patient (700) within a defined area defined by the cover (201).

2. 2. The system for bathing a bedridden patient according to claim 1, further comprising a docking station (400) configured to receive and couple to the mobile unit (300) and facilitate at least one of refilling the hot water reservoir (301), or the cold water reservoir (302), or the disinfectant reservoir (306), or the shower gel reservoir (305), or the energy charging of the control unit (304) of the mobile unit (300).

3. A mobile unit (300) for bathing bedridden patients according to claim 1 or 2, comprising at least one of a hot water reservoir (301), a cold water reservoir (302) and a control unit (304).

4. The mobile unit (300) for bathing bedridden patients according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control unit (304) is configured to supply mixed water to a lying patient (700) within a temperature range of 29°C to 38°C.

5. A mobile unit (300) for bathing a bedridden patient as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a wastewater reservoir (303) configured to receive mixed water from the patient (700) via a drain valve provided in the cover (201).

6. A mobile unit (300) for bathing bedridden patients according to any of claims 1 to 5, comprising a shower gel reservoir (305), a disinfectant reservoir (306) and an ultraviolet disinfection lamp (307).

7. A docking station (400) for receiving and connecting to a mobile unit (300) for bathing bedridden patients according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising at least one of a charging unit (403), a power supply unit (404), an input microfilter (408), an ultraviolet disinfection lamp (407) and a heating unit (406).

8. A docking station (400) for receiving and connecting to a mobile unit (300) for bathing bedridden patients according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising a disinfectant reservoir (401), a shower gel reservoir (402) and an output microfilter (405).

9. A docking station (400) for receiving and connecting a mobile unit (300) for bathing bedridden patients according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising: a water pressure connector (4051) configured to fill the hot water reservoir (301) with water provided by the heating unit (406); a water pressure connector (4061) configured to fill the cold water reservoir (302) with water provided by an input microfilter (408) connected to a tap; a disinfectant connector (4011) configured to fill the disinfectant reservoir (306) with a disinfectant provided by the disinfectant reservoir (401); a shower gel connector (4021) configured to fill said shower gel reservoir (305) with shower gel provided by said shower gel reservoir (402); A control unit electromagnetic lock (3041); and A docking station (400) comprising a set of electrical connectors (4041).

10. A cover (201) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, a rectangular central portion (205) including a pair of upper and lower wings (207) disposed on each of the narrowest sides of said rectangular central portion (205); a pair of side wings (206) on each of the longest sides of the rectangular central portion (205); and At least one drain valve (203); The set of upper and lower wings (207) and the set of side wings (206) are seamlessly connected to the rectangular central portion (205), and the cover (201) further comprises longitudinal connection points (212) that enable the upper and lower wings (207) to be coupled to each of the side wings (206).

11. A cover (201) according to any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the longitudinal connection points (212) include adjustment elements (213) provided within the connection points (212) which facilitate the adaptation of the cover (201) to different shapes and types of existing bed mattresses or to different shapes and types of existing bed (200) types.

12. A cover (201) as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the upper and lower wings (207) are supported by the headboard and footboard of the bed (200), respectively, and are adjusted and fitted to the bed by the adjustment elements (213) to facilitate the formation of a bathtub-shaped container surrounding the patient all around.

13. The cover (201) according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a hydrophobic textile composition having antibacterial and antiviral properties.

14. An antimicrobially active coating composition comprising 80-99.95% (w / w) of a water-based acrylic resin and 0.05-20% (w / w) of at least one antimicrobial agent.

15. 15. The antimicrobial coating composition of claim 14, wherein the water-based acrylic resin is a water-based acrylic resin copolymerized with styrene.

16. The coating composition with antimicrobial activity according to claim 15, wherein the antimicrobial agent is selected from metal nanoparticles with a diameter of 20 to 200 nm.

17. The metal nanoparticles are silver, TiO ２ 17. The coating composition having antimicrobial activity according to claim 16, wherein the nanoparticles are CuO or CuO nanoparticles.

18. An antimicrobial coating composition according to any one of claims 14 to 15, wherein the antimicrobial agent is selected from biguanides such as chlorhexidine digluconate and poly(hexamethylenebicyanoguanide-hexamethylenediamine) hydrochloride.

19. An antimicrobial coating composition according to any one of claims 14 to 18, wherein the composition further comprises a quaternary ammonium compound in a concentration of up to 20% (w / w).

20. 20. The antimicrobial coating composition of claim 19, wherein the quaternary ammonium compound is selected from ester quats.

21. An antimicrobial coating composition according to any one of claims 14 to 20, wherein the composition further comprises a rheology modifier in a concentration of 0.1 to 5% (w / w).

22. A coating composition having antimicrobial activity as disclosed in any of claims 14 to 21 for use as a surface coating for said mobile unit as disclosed in any of claims 3 to 6.

Images