Emergency dialysis system
The emergency dialysis system addresses the challenge of providing continuous hemodialysis during disasters by integrating a comprehensive water purification and management system with remote monitoring, ensuring stable water supply and waste management, thus maintaining patient safety and treatment continuity.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- SHAMACHI HOLDINGS CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2024-11-20
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-01
Smart Images

Figure 2026089179000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to an emergency dialysis system capable of continuously providing daily hemodialysis treatment to hemodialysis patients in disaster-stricken areas and the like due to natural disasters.
Background Art
[0002] Hemodialysis patients need to receive hemodialysis treatment several times a week. However, in emergencies such as natural disasters, the infrastructure including water supply for providing hemodialysis treatment may become unavailable. In particular, when hospitals or dialysis clinics are damaged, it becomes difficult for hemodialysis patients to receive appropriate hemodialysis treatment for a long time. As a result, their health condition rapidly deteriorates, and there is a risk of serious danger to life.
[0003] Therefore, in Patent Document 1, a movable dedicated vehicle for hemodialysis is disclosed, which is mainly intended for use at the homes of hemodialysis patients or in remote areas. In addition, Patent Document 2 discloses a technology related to the efficiency improvement of water supply required for hemodialysis treatment, enabling efficient hemodialysis treatment particularly in places where the infrastructure for hemodialysis treatment is not well-developed.
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0004]
Patent Document 1
Patent Document 2
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0005] However, while the prior art described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 has solved some of the problems such as the movement of hemodialysis machines and the efficient use of dialysate, challenges remain in accessing disaster-stricken areas where roads are cut off, such as during natural disasters, and in providing emergency and continuous hemodialysis treatment with limited resources.
[0006] In particular, when it is difficult to ensure a stable supply of water, which is essential for dialysis fluid, it becomes challenging to provide sufficient hemodialysis treatment to maintain the health of hemodialysis patients. Therefore, there is a need to develop a system that can provide rapid and continuous hemodialysis treatment to patients who require it (hemodialysis patients) even in emergencies such as natural disasters.
[0007] Therefore, the objective of the present invention is to provide an emergency dialysis system that can stably and continuously supply dialysis water even in areas affected by natural disasters. [Means for solving the problem]
[0008] The first emergency dialysis system has an emergency dialysis unit that performs hemodialysis using dialysis water for hemodialysis patients, and the emergency dialysis unit comprises a water intake device that takes in raw water from a natural water source and removes foreign matter through a filter, a water purification device that purifies the raw water obtained from the water intake device into dialysis water, an hemodialysis machine that performs hemodialysis using the dialysis water produced from the water purification device, a waste treatment facility that collects medical waste generated from the hemodialysis machine, and a temporary house in which multiple hospital beds and hemodialysis machines are installed indoors.
[0009] The emergency dialysis system according to the second invention is an emergency dialysis system comprising a water purification treatment device, a physical treatment device that physically treats impurities contained in raw water using an adsorption means, and a reverse osmosis treatment device that purifies raw water into dialysis water by reverse osmosis treatment using a reverse osmosis membrane.
[0010] The emergency dialysis system according to the third invention further comprises a water purification treatment device, a biological treatment device, and a water purification treatment device, which further comprises a biological treatment device that biologically treats organic matter contained in raw water with aerobic bacteria.
[0011] The emergency dialysis system according to the fourth invention is an emergency dialysis system in which the emergency dialysis unit further comprises a wastewater storage tank equipped with an ultraviolet sterilization device.
[0012] The emergency dialysis system according to the fifth invention further comprises a management control unit that manages and controls the emergency dialysis unit, the management control unit comprising: measuring means for monitoring the quality of dialysis water and the operating status of the artificial dialysis machine; control means for controlling the operation of the emergency dialysis unit based on the measured values of the measuring means; communication means for sending and receiving information between the management control unit and the emergency dialysis unit; remote connection means for connecting to the management control unit from a remote location and performing management operations; and power supply means for supplying power to the emergency dialysis unit and the management control unit.
[0013] The emergency dialysis system according to the sixth invention is an emergency dialysis system in which the management control unit further includes a warning device that issues a warning when an abnormal value is detected by either a measuring means or a control means.
[0014] The seventh invention relates to an emergency dialysis system in which a management control unit centrally manages the electronic medical records of hemodialysis patients and further comprises a medical record management unit that grasps the medical history and treatment status of hemodialysis patients. [Effects of the Invention]
[0015] According to the first invention, even in areas affected by natural disasters, water can be drawn from natural water sources, purified, and supplied for dialysis. This ensures a stable and continuous supply of dialysis fluid even when existing infrastructure such as water supply, sewage, and electricity becomes dysfunctional. In other words, even in the event of a natural disaster, hemodialysis patients can continue their treatment without interruption. Furthermore, since temporary housing and waste disposal facilities are also included, the safety and health of hemodialysis patients during natural disasters can be maintained.
[0016] According to the second invention, by employing a two-stage treatment method consisting of physical treatment and reverse osmosis treatment in the water purification apparatus, it becomes possible to purify dialysis water to a higher level and with greater safety. This treatment method reliably removes impurities contained in the raw water, thereby improving the quality of the dialysis water and providing safer and cleaner water to hemodialysis patients. Furthermore, by combining various treatment methods, it becomes possible to respond flexibly to the water quality of each region and the environment during disasters, thereby ensuring a stable supply of dialysis water.
[0017] According to the third invention, by adding a biological treatment means to the water purification system, harmful bacteria and other microorganisms and organic matter can be effectively removed, further ensuring the safety of dialysis water. This further improves the quality of dialysis water, providing dialysis water that can be used with peace of mind by hemodialysis patients. Furthermore, by combining it with physical treatment and reverse osmosis treatment, advanced purification through multiple treatment stages can be achieved, enabling a stable supply of dialysis water even under various environmental conditions.
[0018] According to the fourth invention, by installing a wastewater storage tank equipped with an ultraviolet sterilization device in the emergency dialysis unit, wastewater generated by hemodialysis can be efficiently treated and reused. The wastewater storage tank can temporarily store dialysis wastewater, concentrated water produced by reverse osmosis treatment, and backwash water generated during maintenance work on the reverse osmosis treatment device for recycling. At the same time, by attaching an ultraviolet sterilization device to the wastewater storage tank, the growth of bacteria can be prevented, making it possible to safely reuse the wastewater.
[0019] According to the fifth invention, the emergency dialysis system includes a management control unit to monitor the quality of dialysis water and the operating status of the artificial dialysis device, enabling operation control according to the situation. Also, through communication means and remote connection means, confirmation and management operations from a remote location are possible, improving reliability. Furthermore, the power supply means autonomously supplies the necessary power even during a power outage, ensuring the continuity of artificial dialysis treatment and the safety of artificial dialysis patients. That is, by automating the system, labor-saving in management work is achieved, which has the effect of resolving situations where it is difficult to secure human resources during natural disasters and alleviating harsh working environments.
[0020] According to the sixth invention, with a management control unit equipped with a warning device, abnormalities in the dialysis system can be detected early, enabling prompt response. In particular, when either the measurement means or the control means senses an abnormal value, immediately issuing a warning improves the reliability and safety of the entire dialysis system and can minimize the health risks of artificial dialysis patients. As a result, troubles during artificial dialysis can be quickly resolved, and the operation of this emergency dialysis system can be carried out continuously and stably.
[0021] According to the seventh invention, by providing a medical record management unit that centrally manages the electronic medical records of artificial dialysis patients, the dialysis history, past medical history, and current treatment status of each artificial dialysis patient can be quickly confirmed, enabling appropriate medical responses. Thereby, appropriate dialysis treatment according to the individual needs of artificial dialysis patients is carried out, accelerating decision-making at the medical site. Also, by improving the efficiency of medical record management, it can contribute to reducing the burden on medical staff and minimizing mistakes.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0022] [Figure 1] It is an overall configuration diagram of the emergency dialysis system 1 of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is an X-X cross-sectional view of the temporary house 15 shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] It is a configuration diagram of the emergency dialysis unit 10. [Figure 4] It is a configuration diagram of the management control unit 50. [Figure 5] It is a flowchart of an artificial dialysis treatment process using the emergency artificial dialysis system of the present invention.
Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention
[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following, the same elements in all the drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted. Also, in the description in the text, the reference numerals described previously will be used as necessary.
[0024] The overall configuration diagram of the emergency dialysis system 1, which is one embodiment of the present invention, is shown in FIG. 1, and the X-X cross-sectional view of the temporary house 15 shown in FIG. 1 is shown in FIG. 2. The emergency dialysis system 1 of the present invention is roughly divided as shown in FIG. 1, and is formed by an emergency dialysis unit 10 for obtaining dialysis water for an artificial dialysis patient and a management control unit 50 for managing and controlling the emergency dialysis unit 10. The configuration diagram of the emergency dialysis unit 10 shown in FIG. 1 is shown in FIG. 3, and the configuration diagram of the management control unit 50 shown in FIG. 1 is shown in FIG. 4.
[0025] The emergency dialysis unit 10 that performs artificial dialysis using dialysis water for an artificial dialysis patient takes raw water from a natural water source as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, and has a water intake device 11 that removes foreign substances through a filter, a water purification device 20 that purifies the raw water obtained from the water intake device 11 into dialysis water by biological treatment, physical treatment, and reverse osmosis treatment, artificial dialysis devices 13A to 13E that perform artificial dialysis using the dialysis water generated by the water purification device 20, a waste treatment facility 14 that collects medical waste generated from the artificial dialysis devices 13A to 13E, and a temporary house 15 in which a plurality of hospital beds 30A to 30E and the artificial dialysis devices 13A to 13E are installed indoors. Also, the water intake device 11, the water purification device 20, the artificial dialysis devices 13A to 13E, and the drainage storage tank 12 are connected to each other using a plurality of pipes H, enabling the pumping of raw water, dialysis water, dialysis drainage, etc. between the devices.
[0026] In other words, the emergency dialysis unit 10 is equipped with a water intake device 11 that takes raw water from a natural water source and removes foreign matter through a filter. The raw water obtained by the water intake device 11 is sent to a water purification device 20, where it is purified into dialysis water through biological treatment by a biological treatment device 21, physical treatment by a physical treatment device 22, and reverse osmosis treatment by a reverse osmosis treatment device 23. This dialysis water is stored in a storage tank 24 equipped with a device for maintaining water quality and is stably supplied to hemodialysis machines 13A to 13E, where dialysis treatment is performed on hemodialysis patients.
[0027] Furthermore, medical waste generated from hemodialysis machines 13A to 13E is appropriately collected and processed by the waste treatment facility 14. The emergency dialysis system 1 also includes a temporary building 15, which houses multiple wards 30A to 30E and hemodialysis machines 13A to 13E, as shown in Figures 1 and 2. This temporary building 15 makes it possible to quickly accommodate hemodialysis patients and perform hemodialysis even in the event of a natural disaster. The details of each component of the water intake device 11, water purification device 20 (biological device 21, physical device 22, reverse osmosis device 23, storage tank 24), hemodialysis machines 13A to 13E, waste treatment facility 14, and temporary building 15 will be described below.
[0028] <Water intake device 11> The water intake device 11 plays a crucial role as the raw water source in the emergency dialysis system 1. This device takes raw water from natural water sources (e.g., seawater, rivers, lakes, groundwater, etc.) and processes it to make it suitable for dialysis. The water intake device 11 is equipped with a filter, which removes sediment and large foreign objects (such as garbage and marine life) from the raw water. This filter has a multi-layer structure and functions effectively as a pretreatment for dialysis water by efficiently removing physical obstacles. In addition, the filter has a structure that allows it to rotate or vibrate automatically using the water flow to prevent foreign objects from clogging the filter.
[0029] Furthermore, the water intake device 11 may be equipped with an automatic water intake function to ensure stable water intake even during natural disasters or power outages. For example, if the power is cut off, an emergency battery can be activated to prevent the water intake operation from stopping. It can also be equipped with a water intake volume adjustment mechanism to control the supply of the exact amount of water needed for hemodialysis.
[0030] <Water purification treatment device 20> The water purification treatment device 20 is a device for purifying the raw water supplied from the aforementioned water intake device 11 for use as dialysis water. It includes three main treatment devices: a biological treatment device 21, a physical treatment device 22, and a reverse osmosis treatment device 23, as well as a storage tank 24 for supplying the generated dialysis water to the hemodialysis machines 13A to 13E with stable water quality and volume. Details of each of these treatment devices and their treatment processes will be explained below.
[0031] (Biological treatment device 21) The biological treatment device 21 is a device that performs so-called biological treatment, which involves decomposing and removing organic matter contained in raw water using aerobic bacteria. In this biological treatment, organic pollutants contained in the raw water are decomposed by microorganisms, ensuring the safety of the water for dialysis. Since aerobic bacteria require oxygen, appropriate oxygen supply is also provided to enhance the activity of the microorganisms and improve the treatment efficiency.
[0032] (Physical processing unit 22) The physical treatment device 22 is a device that performs physical treatment, such as physically removing impurities like suspended solids and minute solid particles contained in the raw water using adsorption means. Typical adsorption means include activated carbon filters and sand filters, which adsorb and remove fine impurities and dissolved substances. This physical treatment significantly reduces residues and chemical pollutants in the water.
[0033] (Reverse osmosis treatment device 23) The reverse osmosis treatment device 23 is the final stage of the process, performing reverse osmosis treatment to produce dialysis water from raw water using a reverse osmosis membrane (RO membrane). Because the reverse osmosis membrane has extremely fine pores and prevents the passage of impurities other than water molecules, it can effectively remove minute substances such as salt, heavy metals, and bacteria by filtering water at the molecular level through the membrane. The water produced by this process can achieve a high purity that meets the standards for dialysis water.
[0034] (Storage tank 24) The storage tank 24 is a device that temporarily stores the dialysis water generated by the reverse osmosis treatment device 23 and then supplies it to the hemodialysis machines 13A to 13E. The storage tank 24 also has the function of balancing the supply and demand for dialysis water, and can flexibly respond to the intermittent operation status and demand fluctuations of the reverse osmosis treatment device 23. In other words, the storage tank 24 and the three types of treatment devices described above work together to purify the raw water taken from natural water sources into safe and high-quality dialysis water. The purified dialysis water is temporarily stored in the storage tank 24, which eliminates the gap between the supply amount of the reverse osmosis treatment device 23 and the demand amount of the hemodialysis machines 13A to 13E, and is stably supplied to the hemodialysis machines 13A to 13E, as described later, providing safe and effective treatment to hemodialysis patients.
[0035] In addition to the three types of treatment devices, a pH adjustment tank can also be installed in the water purification device 20, as the pH may fluctuate when the raw water and wastewater are circulated. This pH adjustment tank performs treatment to stabilize the pH value of the water, maintaining the quality required for dialysis water. This ensures consistent water quality supplied to the hemodialysis machines 13A to 13E described later, enabling safe and effective treatment for hemodialysis patients.
[0036] <Artificial dialysis equipment 13A~13E> The hemodialysis machines 13A to 13E are devices that purify the blood of hemodialysis patients using dialysis water supplied from the aforementioned water purification treatment device 20. The hemodialysis machines 13A to 13E have the function of purifying the blood by passing it through a dialysis membrane and removing waste products and excess water from the body. These hemodialysis machines 13A to 13E are equipped with a blood pump, a dialysate pump, and a monitoring system, and can perform dialysis while constantly monitoring the blood pressure and fluid balance of the hemodialysis patient.
[0037] Furthermore, hemodialysis machines 13A to 13E are equipped with emergency power supplies and are designed to operate stably even during power outages caused by natural disasters. In addition, they offer the flexibility to finely adjust dialysis conditions according to the condition of each hemodialysis patient, enabling the provision of hemodialysis treatment optimized for each individual patient.
[0038] <Waste Treatment Facility 14> The waste treatment facility 14 is a facility for collecting and processing medical waste discharged from the aforementioned hemodialysis machines 13A to 13E. Blood, bodily fluids, used filters, and other waste generated during hemodialysis pose an infection risk and therefore need to be processed safely and quickly. At this waste treatment facility 14, waste is classified and detoxified, ensuring proper processing in compliance with legal regulations.
[0039] Furthermore, the waste treatment facility 14 has a pipeline directly connected to the hemodialysis machines 13A-13E, allowing for an automated waste collection mechanism and improved treatment efficiency. In addition, it is equipped with a filtering system to minimize environmental impact, enabling proper waste disposal.
[0040] <Temporary house 15> The temporary house 15 has a structure that allows for the installation of multiple hospital beds 30A-30E and hemodialysis machines 13A-13E indoors, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, so that the emergency dialysis system 1 can be quickly activated in the event of a natural disaster. This temporary house 15 is designed to be installed in a short period of time, like a prefabricated house, and can be quickly deployed and installed in disaster-stricken areas in the event of a natural disaster. The temporary house 15 provides a space where hemodialysis patients can receive hemodialysis treatment with peace of mind while maintaining a clean environment indoors. In summary, these elements work together to enable hemodialysis patients to receive stable hemodialysis treatment even in the event of a natural disaster.
[0041] Furthermore, the emergency dialysis unit 10 may also be equipped with a wastewater storage tank 12 for efficiently treating and reusing wastewater generated by hemodialysis. The wastewater storage tank 12 can temporarily store dialysis wastewater and concentrated water produced by reverse osmosis treatment. In addition, by attaching an ultraviolet sterilization device to the wastewater storage tank 12, the growth of bacteria can be prevented, making it possible to safely reuse the wastewater. In other words, by safely reusing the wastewater generated by the aforementioned water purification process and the operation of hemodialysis treatment, it is possible to contribute to improving the sustainability of the region.
[0042] Next, as shown in Figure 4, the management control unit 50 includes a measuring means 51 for monitoring the operating status of the emergency dialysis unit 10, a control means 52 for controlling the operation of the emergency dialysis unit 10 based on the measurements of the measuring means 51, a communication means 53 for communicating between the management control unit 50 and the emergency dialysis unit 10, a remote connection means 54 for connecting to the management control unit 50 from a remote location using a telecommunications line, and a power supply means 55 for supplying power to the emergency dialysis unit 10 and the management control unit 50.
[0043] Specifically, the management control unit 50 is equipped with a measuring means 51 that monitors the operating status of the emergency dialysis unit 10, and a control means 52 that controls the operation of the emergency dialysis unit 10 based on the measured values obtained from the measuring means 51 is provided. In addition, a communication means 53 is installed to communicate between the management control unit 50 and the emergency dialysis unit 10, thereby enabling smooth cooperation between the two.
[0044] One important feature of the present invention is that the management control unit 50 includes a remote connection means 54 that enables connection from a remote location using a telecommunications line. This remote connection means 54 allows monitoring and control of the operation status of the emergency dialysis system 10 even when there are no staff (mainly medical personnel) who can operate the system in the affected area during a natural disaster. The system also includes a power supply means 55 that supplies power to the entire system (management control unit 50 and emergency dialysis unit 10), ensuring a stable power supply even during emergencies such as power outages caused by natural disasters.
[0045] The details of each component of the measurement means 51, control means 52, communication means 53, remote connection means 54, and power supply means 55 will be described below. Although a part of the management control unit 50 is installed in the staff room (waiting room for medical personnel, etc.) of the temporary building 15 as shown in Figures 1 and 4, it may also be installed outdoors.
[0046] <Measurement means 51> The measurement device 51 is a device that collects data necessary to monitor the operational status of the emergency dialysis unit 10. Its main functions include real-time monitoring and acquisition of data on the operation status of the water intake device 11, the water purification treatment device 20, and the hemodialysis machines 13A to 13E, the quality of water purification treatment, and the performance of hemodialysis treatment. This allows for accurate understanding of the overall system's operational status and provides information to respond quickly in the event of an abnormality.
[0047] Furthermore, the measurement means 51 monitors the operating status of the emergency dialysis unit 10 using various sensors. For example, the water quality sensor monitors the purity of the output water from the water purification treatment device 20 to ensure appropriate quality of dialysis water. In addition, it monitors the system's operating status and power consumption, and the measured data is used by the control means 52, which will be described later.
[0048] <Control means 52> The control means 52 is a central device for controlling each device in the emergency dialysis unit 10 based on data obtained from the aforementioned measuring means 51. This control means 52 has the function of automatically adjusting the operation of the entire emergency dialysis unit 10 to maintain optimal operating conditions. For example, it can adjust the flow rate and pressure of the dialysis water and manage the operating speed of the water purification treatment device 20 and the operating timing of the hemodialysis machines 13A to 13E.
[0049] Furthermore, the control means 52 is equipped with an abnormality detection function, and if it detects an abnormality based on data from the measurement means 51, it will quickly shut down part or all of the system and issue an alarm. In addition, it can be programmed to automatically restart the system if it is in a recoverable state.
[0050] <Communication method 53> The communication means 53 is a device for bidirectional communication of information between the management control unit 50 and each device in the emergency dialysis unit 10. Here, "information" includes, for example, operating data of the artificial dialysis machines 13A to 13E, water quality and temperature, detection of foreign matter, filter status, power status, alert signals, and all other information necessary to operate the emergency dialysis system 1. Through this communication means 53, operating data and control commands for each device are transmitted and received in real time, enabling the entire emergency dialysis system 1 to work together smoothly. The communication means 53 primarily exchanges data via wired or wireless communication networks.
[0051] As a result, for example, the operating status of the water intake device 11 and water quality data from the water purification device 20 are immediately reported to the management control unit 50, and appropriate commands are sent from the control means 52 as needed. In addition, the communication means 53 is designed to connect with an external monitoring system in cooperation with the remote connection means 54, which will be described later, making it possible to monitor and control the emergency dialysis system 1 from a remote location.
[0052] <Remote connection means 54> The remote connection means 54 is a device that provides the function of connecting the management control unit 50 with external remote monitoring devices or operators using a telecommunications line. This allows the operation status of the emergency dialysis system 1 to be monitored and operated remotely as needed, even when there are no technicians in the disaster area during a natural disaster, by coordinating with the aforementioned communication means 53.
[0053] The remote connection means 54 uses a high-speed and stable communication line, enabling immediate response in emergencies. Furthermore, security measures are in place, including authentication processes and data encryption technologies to prevent unauthorized external access. This ensures the safety and reliability of the emergency dialysis system 1.
[0054] <Power supply means 55> The power supply means 55 is a device for supplying power to the entire emergency dialysis system 1. An emergency power supply is provided to ensure that the emergency dialysis system 1 continues to operate even if lifelines, particularly the power supply, are interrupted due to a natural disaster. This emergency power supply uses batteries, generators, etc., enabling the emergency dialysis system 1 to operate stably even under conditions of power outages or unstable power supply.
[0055] Furthermore, the power supply means 55 efficiently manages the power consumption of the entire emergency dialysis system 1 and has a power generation function that prioritizes supplying the power required by each device. As a result, as shown in Figure 4, the power required by the management control unit 50, including the measuring means 51, and the entire emergency dialysis unit 1, including the water purification treatment device 20, is supplied via the distribution board, allowing for operation over long periods and enabling uninterrupted hemodialysis treatment for hemodialysis patients. All of the above elements work together to constitute the management control unit 50 and support the operation of the entire emergency dialysis system 1. This makes it possible to provide an environment in which hemodialysis patients can receive treatment safely and stably even during natural disasters.
[0056] In addition, in the emergency dialysis system 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention, a warning device 60 may be provided in the management control unit 50, as shown in Figure 4. This warning device 60 has the function of automatically issuing a warning when an abnormal value is detected by the measuring means 51 or the control means 52. Here, "when an abnormal value is detected" refers to cases such as when the water quality of the dialysis water deviates from the specified value, when an abnormality occurs in the operation of the artificial dialysis machines 13A to 13E, or when an abnormality occurs in the power supply means 55.
[0057] The warning device 60 issues warnings through visual alarms (illumination of a warning lamp) and auditory alarms (buzzer sound). It also has a function to send warning messages to medical staff or administrators in remote locations via the remote connection means 54. This enables early detection of abnormalities in the emergency dialysis system 1 and allows for a rapid response.
[0058] Furthermore, the warning device 60 is capable of multi-stage responses after detecting an abnormality, including automatically stopping the emergency dialysis system 1 and switching to backup operation. This ensures that the emergency dialysis system 1 can provide safe hemodialysis treatment to hemodialysis patients even when an abnormality occurs.
[0059] Furthermore, the management control unit 50 may also include a medical record management unit 70 for centrally managing the electronic medical records of hemodialysis patients, as shown in Figure 4. The medical record management unit 70 has the function of creating a database of hemodialysis patients' medical history and current treatment status and managing it integrally within the emergency dialysis system 1. This makes it possible to grasp the medical information of hemodialysis patients in real time and provide appropriate hemodialysis treatment.
[0060] Specifically, the medical record management unit 70 records blood test results, dialysis history, the type of dialysis fluid used, and changes in the patient's physical condition during dialysis. For example, by adopting a standard electronic medical record format for dialysis patients, it can be used consistently even in dialysis facilities that differ in location.
[0061] Furthermore, this information is used in conjunction with other devices in the emergency dialysis system 1. For example, by integrating it with personal information linked to the My Number (registered trademark) held by each hemodialysis patient, a system can be established to manage the medical data of hemodialysis patients quickly and accurately. In addition, by managing medical records on the cloud, medical record data will not be lost even in the event of a natural disaster, necessary information can be shared in real time, and a rapid response to hemodialysis treatment can be achieved. When operating the emergency dialysis system 1 of the present invention, for example, access to medical record data can be limited to those who have received special training and registered (staff), and access to all hemodialysis patient medical record data stored on the cloud can be limited to those who have signed a confidentiality agreement.
[0062] Furthermore, the medical record management unit 70 can share data with medical institutions in remote locations, allowing for seamless use of medical information even when hemodialysis patients receive treatment in different locations. In other words, when hemodialysis machines 13A-13E adjust dialysis conditions, data from the medical record management unit 70 is referenced, and the optimal conditions for each hemodialysis patient are automatically reflected. This function ensures that appropriate hemodialysis treatment can be continued even if evacuation locations change after a natural disaster.
[0063] Next, we will describe the series of processes (steps) for performing hemodialysis treatment using the emergency hemodialysis system of the present invention. Figure 5 shows a flowchart of hemodialysis treatment using the emergency hemodialysis system 1 shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 5, this series of steps consists of a total of six steps: procurement of raw water (Step 1: S001), purification of raw water (Step 2: S002), supply of dialysis water and commencement of hemodialysis (Step 3: S003), wastewater management after dialysis (Step 4: S004), remote operation and management (Step 5: S005), and maintenance and preparation for the next treatment (Step 6: S006). The details of each step will be described below.
[0064] <Procurement of raw water: Step 1 S001> The first step is to procure raw water for purifying the dialysis water used in hemodialysis treatment. Natural water sources such as rivers, lakes, wells, and seawater are used as water sources. A stable supply of raw water from these natural sources is a prerequisite for the purification process. The equipment required for water intake differs depending on the water source. For example, when drawing water from a river, appropriate equipment is installed at the intake to cope with seasonal fluctuations in water volume and natural disasters such as floods. When using well water, fluctuations in the groundwater level are a problem, so the water level is regularly monitored on a daily basis and managed to maintain a stable supply. This ensures that raw water is supplied without interruption.
[0065] When raw water is taken in, foreign objects such as gravel, fallen leaves, and debris may flow in with the water. To prevent this, a filter is installed at the water intake. The filter effectively removes foreign objects of different sizes depending on the mesh size, preventing clogging and damage to the water intake system. Furthermore, by cleaning or replacing the filter after a certain period of time, efficient water intake can be continued.
[0066] <Raw water purification treatment: Step 2 S002> In the second step, the procured raw water is treated for purification. This treatment involves three main stages: biological treatment, physical treatment, and reverse osmosis. First, in biological treatment, organic matter in the raw water is broken down by aerobic bacteria. Aerobic bacteria are microorganisms that require oxygen and efficiently break down organic matter. The decomposed material is collected as sludge in a sedimentation tank and removed periodically.
[0067] After the biological treatment is complete, physical treatment is performed. In this stage, multiple filters are used to remove impurities and fine particles remaining in the water. Specifically, activated carbon filters are used to adsorb harmful chemicals and odor components. Porous filters further enhance the cleanliness by physically capturing even finer impurities.
[0068] As the final stage, reverse osmosis treatment is performed. Reverse osmosis is essential for removing very fine impurities and dissolved substances from the water. In this process, a high-pressure pump is used to pass the raw water through a reverse osmosis membrane, allowing only water molecules to pass through.
[0069] This process completely removes impurities, including salt and other dissolved substances, producing extremely high-purity water. This water meets standards particularly suitable for medical applications such as hemodialysis. The purified water produced by reverse osmosis is further stored and distributed according to its subsequent use. This ensures a stable supply of the required purified water for hemodialysis and other medical applications. In this second step, biological treatment may be omitted depending on the condition of the raw water.
[0070] <Supply of water for dialysis and commencement of hemodialysis: Step 3 S003> In the third step, purified water is supplied to the hemodialysis machine, and hemodialysis begins. This step starts with sending purified water to the dialysis machine. The water, purified to a high degree of purity through reverse osmosis, is optimized as dialysis water, enabling safe and effective hemodialysis treatment for hemodialysis patients. This purified water comes into contact with the hemodialysis patient's blood during treatment and plays an important role in removing waste products and excess water from the blood.
[0071] After supplying dialysis water, hemodialysis is performed. Hemodialysis is a process in which the blood of a hemodialysis patient is taken out of the body and removed by passing it through a dialysis membrane to remove waste products and excess fluid. Through the dialysis membrane, the dialysis water adsorbs waste products, and clean blood is returned to the body. This entire process allows hemodialysis patients with impaired kidney function to maintain a balance of waste products and fluids in their bodies.
[0072] The quantity and quality of water supplied during hemodialysis must be precisely controlled. In the series of steps for performing hemodialysis using the emergency dialysis system of the present invention, an automatic control program is introduced to monitor the supply volume and quality of dialysis water in real time, constantly maintaining optimal conditions during hemodialysis. The automatic control system monitors the water temperature, pressure, flow rate, and even water quality, managing the hemodialysis machine to ensure it always performs at its best.
[0073] <Post-dialysis drainage management: Step 4 S004> The fourth step is the management of wastewater generated after hemodialysis is completed. The dialysis water used during hemodialysis and the concentrated water produced by the reverse osmosis treatment system are not discharged directly, but are first collected in a wastewater storage tank. This wastewater contains waste products and dissolved substances, so it needs to be treated properly. The wastewater storage tank is located outdoors and is equipped with facilities to safely treat the wastewater.
[0074] The wastewater collected in the wastewater storage tank is treated using an ultraviolet (UV) sterilization device. This device prevents the growth of any bacteria that may be present in the wastewater. UV sterilization is a safe, chemical-free sterilization method that ensures the safety of wastewater while minimizing its impact on the environment.
[0075] Furthermore, pH adjustment of the wastewater is also a crucial process. Since the pH of the wastewater may not meet environmental standards as is, it is adjusted to an appropriate pH value in a treatment tank. This ensures environmentally conscious wastewater treatment and guarantees that the wastewater is safely discharged to the outside. This pH adjustment is automated and managed to maintain the optimal pH at all times.
[0076] <Remote Control and Management: Step 5 S005> In the fifth step, the supply of dialysis water and the operating status of the hemodialysis machine are monitored remotely. This remote monitoring system can grasp the operating status of the hemodialysis machine and fluctuations in water quality in real time, and has the function to immediately issue a warning in the event of any abnormality. Based on the operating status of the hemodialysis machine, instructions for replenishing medication or replacing parts are issued remotely as needed.
[0077] Furthermore, in the event of a natural disaster, skilled personnel can remotely operate the hemodialysis machine. For example, even if a machine malfunctions, the hemodialysis machine can be safely stopped or its settings changed remotely, ensuring the safety of hemodialysis patients. This remote operation function is also useful when the hemodialysis machine is located in a remote location or when there are no skilled technicians available in the disaster area.
[0078] <Maintenance and preparation for the next visit: Step 6 S006> In the sixth step, maintenance of the hemodialysis machine is performed after the hemodialysis is completed. Because hemodialysis machines are used frequently, regular maintenance is essential. The series of steps for performing hemodialysis using the emergency dialysis system of the present invention incorporates a function that automatically notifies the user of when filter replacement or drug solution replenishment is necessary, based on the operating status and usage time of the hemodialysis machine. This prevents maintenance from being overlooked and equipment malfunctions from occurring.
[0079] Another important step after the completion of hemodialysis is electronic medical record management. All procedures performed during hemodialysis and the patient's condition are automatically recorded in the electronic medical record. This allows for efficient preparation for the next hemodialysis treatment, and enables medical staff such as doctors and nurses to create appropriate treatment plans based on detailed data for each hemodialysis patient. [Explanation of Symbols]
[0080] 1. Emergency dialysis system 10 Emergency Dialysis Department 11 Water intake device 12 Drainage storage tank 13A~13E Artificial dialysis equipment 14 Waste treatment facilities 15 Temporary housing 20 Water purification treatment equipment 21. Biological treatment device 22 Physical Processing Units 23 Reverse osmosis treatment equipment 24 Storage tanks 30A~30E Hospital bed 50 Management and Control Unit 51 Measuring means 52 Control means 53. Means of communication 54 Remote connection means 55 Electric power supply means 60 Warning device 70 Medical Records Management Department H Piping S001~S006 Steps 1~6
Claims
1. We have an emergency dialysis unit that performs hemodialysis using dialysis water intended for hemodialysis patients. The aforementioned emergency dialysis unit, A water intake device that takes raw water from a natural water source and removes foreign matter through a filter, A water purification apparatus for purifying the raw water obtained from the water intake apparatus into dialysis water, An artificial dialysis apparatus that performs artificial dialysis using the dialysis water generated from the water purification apparatus, A waste treatment facility for collecting medical waste generated from the aforementioned artificial dialysis machine, A temporary house in which multiple hospital beds and the aforementioned hemodialysis machine are installed indoors, An emergency dialysis system characterized by having the following features.
2. In the emergency dialysis system according to claim 1, The aforementioned water purification treatment apparatus is A physical treatment apparatus that physically treats impurities contained in the raw water using an adsorption means, An emergency dialysis system characterized by comprising a reverse osmosis treatment device that purifies the raw water into dialysis water by reverse osmosis treatment using a reverse osmosis membrane.
3. In the emergency dialysis system according to claim 2, The aforementioned water purification treatment apparatus is A biological treatment device that biologically treats organic matter contained in the raw water with aerobic bacteria, An emergency dialysis system further comprising:
4. In the emergency dialysis system according to claim 1, The emergency dialysis system is characterized in that the emergency dialysis unit further comprises a wastewater storage tank equipped with an ultraviolet sterilization device.
5. In the emergency dialysis system according to claim 1, The system further includes a management control unit that manages and controls the emergency dialysis unit. The aforementioned control unit, A measuring means for monitoring the quality of the dialysis water and the operating status of the hemodialysis machine, A control means for controlling the operation of the emergency dialysis unit based on the measured value of the measurement means, A communication means for sending and receiving information between the management control unit and the emergency dialysis unit, Remote connection means for connecting to the management control unit from a remote location and performing management operations, Power supply means for supplying power to the emergency dialysis unit and the management control unit, An emergency dialysis system characterized by including [a specific component].
6. In the emergency dialysis system according to claim 5, The aforementioned control unit, An emergency dialysis system further comprising a warning device that issues a warning when an abnormal value is detected by either the measurement means or the control means.
7. In the emergency dialysis system according to claim 5, The aforementioned control unit, An emergency dialysis system characterized by further comprising a medical record management unit that centrally manages the electronic medical records of the aforementioned hemodialysis patients and grasps the medical history and treatment status of the aforementioned hemodialysis patients.