Sensor assembly and system for monitoring push medication delivery from a syringe to a patient - Patents.com

Abstract

The sensor assembly may include an image capture device configured to capture one or more images; a user feedback device configured to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user; a mechanical connector configured to connect the sensor assembly to the lumen and / or a syringe configured to be connected to the lumen; and a processor coupled to the memory, the processor configured to: acquire one or more images captured by the image capture device; determine information associated with administering a medication to a patient based on the one or more images; and control the user feedback device to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user based on the information.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] 1. Field The present disclosure relates generally to medication delivery to a patient and, in some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, to a sensory assembly for monitoring push medication delivery from a syringe to a patient. [Background technology]

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 439,689, filed January 18, 2023, entitled "Sensor Assembly and System for Monitoring Push Medication Delivery to Patients from Syringes," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0003] 2.Technical considerations Barcoded Medication Administration (BCMA) is an inventory management system that uses barcodes to reduce or prevent human error in the distribution of prescription medications in hospitals. The goal of BCMA is to ensure that patients receive the correct medication at the correct time by electronically verifying and documenting the medication. The information encoded in the barcode allows for a comparison of the medication being administered with that ordered for the patient.

[0004] Currently, BCMA is the only safety check performed near the patient to reduce or prevent medication errors and aid in documentation in the electronic medical record / electronic health record (EMR / EHR). Thus, there is an oversight gap for medications administered via syringe in that the act of connecting to the patient's IV line / catheter and dispensing or administering the medication may not be monitored. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Thus, improved systems, devices, products, apparatus, and / or methods for monitoring push medication delivery from a syringe to a patient are provided.

[0006] According to certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, provided is a sensor assembly including an image capture device configured to capture one or more images; a user feedback device configured to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user; a mechanical connector configured to connect the sensor assembly to the lumen and / or a syringe configured to be connected to the lumen; and a processor coupled to a memory, the processor configured to: acquire one or more images captured by the image capture device; determine information associated with drug administration to a patient based on the one or more images; and control the user feedback device to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user based on the information.

[0007] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the image capture device is configured to automatically capture one or more images in response to connection of the mechanical connector to the lumen and / or syringe.

[0008] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the sensor assembly further includes a housing including an image capture device, a user feedback device, and a processor, wherein the mechanical connector extends from a sidewall of the housing, and wherein a field of view of the image capture device is fixed relative to the housing and / or the mechanical connector, and wherein, with the mechanical connector connecting the sensor assembly to the lumen and / or a syringe connected to the lumen, the field of view of the image capture device includes the syringe.

[0009] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the mechanical connector includes an opening in a sidewall extending from the housing, the opening configured to receive the lumen and / or barrel of the syringe.

[0010] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the image capture device is configured to automatically capture one or more images in response to the lumen and / or barrel of the syringe being received in the opening.

[0011] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the mechanical connector includes a rigid deformable clip.

[0012] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the mechanical connector comprises a butterfly clip.

[0013] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the image capture device is configured to automatically capture one or more images in response to actuation of the butterfly clip.

[0014] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the mechanical connector includes arcuate jaws configured to be actuated by one or more buttons, each of the arcuate jaws connected at a first end to a hinge and including an inward-facing surface configured to wrap around the lumen and / or outer surface of the syringe, the hinge configured to urge second ends of the arcuate jaws together, and the one or more buttons configured to separate the arcuate jaws from one another in response to actuation of the one or more buttons.

[0015] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the image capture device is configured to automatically capture one or more images in response to activation of one or more buttons.

[0016] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the at least one processor is configured to determine information associated with drug administration to the patient based on the one or more images by detecting a patient identifier element associated with the patient in the one or more images, and determining patient information associated with the patient based on the detected patient identifier element, the patient information including an indication of a type and / or dosage of the drug to be administered to the patient and / or a unique identifier of a drug administration lumen to be used to administer the drug to the patient.

[0017] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the at least one processor is configured to determine information associated with administering a medication to a patient based on the one or more images by detecting a syringe identifier element associated with a syringe in the one or more images and determining syringe information associated with the syringe based on the detected syringe identifier element, the syringe information including a type and / or dosage of a medication contained in the syringe.

[0018] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the at least one processor is configured to determine, based on the one or more images, information associated with administering a medication to the patient by determining, based on the patient information and the syringe information, whether the medication contained in the syringe is the correct type and / or correct dosage of the medication to be administered to the patient, and controlling a user feedback device to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user based on whether the medication contained in the syringe includes the correct type and / or correct dosage of the medication to be administered to the patient.

[0019] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the at least one processor is configured to determine information associated with drug administration to the patient based on the one or more images by detecting lumen identifier elements associated with the lumen in the one or more images, and determining lumen information associated with the lumen based on the detected lumen identifier elements, wherein the lumen information includes a unique identifier for the lumen.

[0020] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the at least one processor is configured to determine, based on the one or more images, information associated with administering a drug to the patient by determining, based on the lumen information and the syringe information, whether the lumen is a drug administration lumen to be used to administer the drug to the patient, and controlling a user feedback device to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user based on whether the lumen includes a drug administration lumen to be used to administer the drug to the patient.

[0021] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the one or more images include a series of images including a syringe administering a drug to a patient, and the at least one processor is configured to determine, based on the one or more images, information associated with administering the drug to the patient by detecting movement of a stopper and / or plunger rod of the syringe in the one or more images, determining, based on the detected movement, at least one of the following administration parameters: patency of the lumen, average administration rate of the drug, current administration rate of the drug, a steadiness index for the current administration rate of the drug, an amount of the drug administered, completion of administration of the drug to the patient, or any combination thereof, and controlling a user feedback device to provide an audio and / or visual output to the user based on the at least one administration parameter.

[0022] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the one or more images include a series of images including one or more flush syringes connected to the lumen during a flushing procedure, and the at least one processor is configured to determine, based on the one or more images, information associated with drug administration to the patient by: detecting a lumen identifier element associated with the lumen in the one or more images; determining lumen information associated with the lumen based on the detected lumen identifier element, where the lumen information includes a unique identifier for the lumen; detecting one or more flushing syringe identifier elements associated with one or more flushing syringes in the one or more images; and determining flushing syringe information associated with the one or more flushing syringes based on the one or more detected flushing syringe identifier elements, where the flushing syringe information includes a number of flushing syringes used for the flushing procedure; and determining, based on the lumen information and the flushing syringe information, that a flushing procedure was performed on the lumen, the number of flushing syringes used for the flushing procedure, and / or the type of flushing procedure performed (e.g., continuous flush, partial flush, pulsed flush, etc.).

[0023] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the sensor assembly further includes a wireless communication circuit configured to wirelessly communicate with an external computing device, and the at least one processor is configured to control the wireless communication circuit to wirelessly communicate information associated with the drug administration to the patient to the external computing device.

[0024] According to certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, provided is a system including an external computing device and one or more sensor assemblies, each of the sensor assemblies of the one or more sensor assemblies including an image capture device configured to capture one or more images, a user feedback device configured to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user, a mechanical connector configured to connect the sensor assembly to a lumen and / or a syringe configured to be connected to the lumen, and a wireless communication link configured to facilitate communication between the external computing device, wherein the external computing device includes a processor coupled to a memory, the processor configured to: receive, for each of the sensor assemblies, one or more images captured by the image capture device; determine, based on the one or more images, information associated with administering a medication to a patient; and, based on the information, control, via the wireless communication link, the user feedback device of the sensor assembly to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user.

[0025] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the one or more sensor assemblies include a plurality of sensor assemblies.

[0026] According to certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, provided is a method including: capturing one or more images with an image capture device of a sensor assembly, the sensor assembly including a mechanical connector connecting the sensor assembly to a lumen and / or a syringe configured to be connected to the lumen; acquiring, with at least one processor of the sensor assembly, the one or more images captured by the image capture device; determining, with the at least one processor of the sensor assembly, information associated with administering a medication to a patient based on the one or more images; and controlling, with the at least one processor of the sensor assembly, a user feedback device of the sensor assembly to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user based on the information.

[0027] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the method further includes automatically capturing, by an image capture device of the sensor assembly, one or more images in response to connection of the mechanical connector to the lumen and / or syringe.

[0028] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the sensor assembly further includes a housing including an image capture device, a user feedback device, and at least one processor, wherein the mechanical connector extends from a sidewall of the housing, and wherein a field of view of the image capture device is fixed relative to the housing and / or the mechanical connector, and wherein, with the mechanical connector connecting the sensor assembly to the lumen and / or a syringe connected to the lumen, the field of view of the image capture device includes the syringe.

[0029] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the mechanical connector includes an opening in a sidewall extending from the housing, the opening configured to receive the lumen and / or barrel of the syringe.

[0030] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the method further includes automatically capturing, by an image capture device of the sensor assembly, one or more images in response to the lumen and / or the barrel of the syringe being received in the opening.

[0031] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the mechanical connector includes a rigid deformable clip.

[0032] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the mechanical connector comprises a butterfly clip.

[0033] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the method further includes automatically capturing, with an image capture device of the sensor assembly, one or more images in response to actuation of the butterfly clip.

[0034] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the mechanical connector includes arcuate jaws configured to be actuated by one or more buttons, each of the arcuate jaws connected at a first end to a hinge and including an inward-facing surface configured to wrap around an outer surface of the lumen and / or syringe, the hinge configured to bias second ends of the arcuate jaws together, and the one or more buttons configured to separate the arcuate jaws from one another in response to actuation of the one or more buttons.

[0035] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the method further includes automatically capturing, by an image capture device of the sensor assembly, one or more images in response to actuation of the one or more buttons.

[0036] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, determining information associated with drug administration to the patient based on the one or more images by at least one processor of the sensor assembly includes detecting a patient identifier element associated with the patient in the one or more images; and determining patient information associated with the patient based on the detected patient identifier element, the patient information including an indication of the type and / or dosage of drug to be administered to the patient and / or a unique identifier of the drug administration lumen to be used to administer the drug to the patient.

[0037] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, determining information associated with administering a medication to a patient based on the one or more images by at least one processor of the sensor assembly includes detecting a syringe identifier element associated with the syringe in the one or more images; and determining syringe information associated with the syringe based on the detected syringe identifier element, wherein the syringe information includes a type and / or dosage of medication contained in the syringe.

[0038] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, determining, by at least one processor of the sensor assembly, information associated with administering a medication to the patient based on the one or more images includes determining, based on the patient information and the syringe information, whether the medication contained in the syringe is the correct type and / or correct dosage of the medication to be administered to the patient; and controlling a user feedback device to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user based on whether the medication contained in the syringe contains the correct type and / or correct dosage of the medication to be administered to the patient.

[0039] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, determining information associated with drug administration to the patient based on the one or more images by at least one processor of the sensor assembly includes detecting a lumen identifier element associated with the lumen in the one or more images; and determining lumen information associated with the lumen based on the detected lumen identifier element, wherein the lumen information includes a unique identifier for the lumen.

[0040] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, determining, by at least one processor of the sensor assembly, information associated with administering a drug to the patient based on the one or more images includes determining, based on the lumen information and the syringe information, whether the lumen is a drug administration lumen to be used to administer a drug to the patient; and controlling a user feedback device to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user based on whether the lumen includes a drug administration lumen to be used to administer a drug to the patient.

[0041] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the one or more images include a series of images including a syringe administering a drug to the patient, and determining, by at least one processor of the sensor assembly, information associated with administering a drug to the patient based on the one or more images, includes detecting movement of a stopper and / or plunger rod of the syringe in the one or more images; determining, based on the detected movement, at least one of the following administration parameters: patency of the lumen; average administration rate of the drug; current administration rate of the drug; stability index of the current administration rate of the drug; amount of the drug administered; completion of administration of the drug to the patient, or any combination thereof; and controlling a user feedback device to provide an audio and / or visual output to the user based on the at least one administration parameter.

[0042] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the one or more images include a series of images including one or more flushing syringes connected to the lumen during a flushing procedure, and determining, by at least one processor of the sensor assembly, information associated with drug administration to the patient based on the one or more images, includes: detecting a lumen identifier element associated with the lumen in the one or more images; determining lumen information associated with the lumen based on the detected lumen identifier element, wherein the lumen information includes a unique identifier for the lumen; detecting one or more flushing syringe identifier elements associated with one or more flushing syringes in the one or more images; and determining flushing syringe information associated with the one or more flushing syringes based on the one or more detected flushing syringe identifier elements, wherein the flushing syringe information includes a number of flushing syringes used for the flushing procedure; and determining, based on the lumen information and the flushing syringe information, that a flushing procedure has been performed on the lumen, the number of flushing syringes used for the flushing procedure, and / or the type of flushing procedure performed (e.g., continuous flush, partial flush, pulsed flush, etc.).

[0043] In certain non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the method further includes controlling, by at least one processor of the sensor assembly, wireless communication circuitry of the sensor assembly to wirelessly communicate information associated with drug administration to the patient to an external computing device.

[0044] Further embodiments or aspects are described in the following numbered clauses.

[0045] Clause 1. A sensor assembly comprising: an image capture device configured to capture one or more images; a user feedback device configured to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user; a mechanical connector configured to connect the sensor assembly to a lumen and / or a syringe configured to be connected to the lumen; and a processor coupled to a memory, the processor configured to: obtain one or more images captured by the image capture device; determine information associated with administering a medication to a patient based on the one or more images; and control the user feedback device to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user based on the information.

[0046] Clause 2. The sensor assembly of clause 1, wherein the image capture device is configured to automatically capture one or more images in response to connection of the mechanical connector to the lumen and / or syringe.

[0047] Clause 3. The sensor assembly of any of clauses 1 and 2, further comprising a housing containing an image capture device, a user feedback device, and a processor, wherein a mechanical connector extends from a sidewall of the housing, and wherein the field of view of the image capture device is fixed relative to the housing and / or the mechanical connector, and when the mechanical connector connects the sensor assembly to the lumen and / or a syringe connected to the lumen, the field of view of the image capture device includes the syringe.

[0048] Clause 4. The sensor assembly of any of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the mechanical connector includes an opening in a sidewall extending from the housing, the opening configured to receive the lumen and / or barrel of the syringe.

[0049] Clause 5. The sensor assembly of any of clauses 1 to 4, wherein the image capture device is configured to automatically capture one or more images in response to the lumen and / or barrel of the syringe being received in the opening.

[0050] Clause 6. The sensor assembly of any of clauses 1 to 5, wherein the mechanical connector comprises a rigid deformable clip.

[0051] Clause 7. The sensor assembly of any of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the mechanical connector includes a butterfly clip.

[0052] Clause 8. The sensor assembly of any of clauses 1 to 7, wherein the image capture device is configured to automatically capture one or more images in response to actuation of the butterfly clip.

[0053] Clause 9. The sensor assembly of any of clauses 1 to 8, wherein the mechanical connector includes arcuate jaws configured to be actuated by one or more buttons, each arcuate jaw connected at a first end to a hinge and including an inward-facing surface configured to surround an outer surface of the lumen and / or syringe, the hinge configured to bias second ends of the arcuate jaws together, and the one or more buttons configured to separate the arcuate jaws from one another in response to actuation of the one or more buttons.

[0054] Clause 10. The sensor assembly of any of clauses 1 to 9, wherein the image capture device is configured to automatically capture one or more images in response to actuation of one or more buttons.

[0055] Clause 11. The sensor assembly of any of clauses 1 to 10, wherein at least one processor is configured to determine information associated with medication administration to the patient based on the one or more images by: detecting patient identifier elements associated with the patient in the one or more images; and determining patient information associated with the patient based on the detected patient identifier elements, wherein the patient information includes an indication of the type and / or dosage of medication to be administered to the patient and / or a unique identifier of a medication administration lumen to be used to administer the medication to the patient.

[0056] Clause 12. The sensor assembly of any of clauses 1 to 11, wherein at least one processor is configured to determine information associated with administering a medication to a patient based on the one or more images by: detecting a syringe identifier element associated with a syringe in the one or more images; and determining syringe information associated with the syringe based on the detected syringe identifier element, wherein the syringe information includes a type and / or dosage of medication contained in the syringe.

[0057] Clause 13. The sensor assembly of any of clauses 1 to 12, wherein the at least one processor is configured to determine, based on the one or more images, information associated with administering a medication to the patient by: determining, based on the patient information and the syringe information, whether the medication contained in the syringe is the correct type and / or correct dosage of the medication to be administered to the patient; and controlling the user feedback device to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user based on whether the medication contained in the syringe contains the correct type and / or correct dosage of the medication to be administered to the patient.

[0058] Clause 14. The sensor assembly of any of clauses 1 to 13, wherein at least one processor is configured to determine information associated with administering a medication to the patient based on the one or more images by: detecting lumen identifier elements associated with the lumen in the one or more images; and determining lumen information associated with the lumen based on the detected lumen identifier elements, wherein the lumen information includes a unique identifier for the lumen.

[0059] Clause 15. The sensor assembly of any of clauses 1 to 14, wherein at least one processor is configured to determine, based on the one or more images, information associated with administering a medication to the patient by: determining, based on the lumen information and the syringe information, whether the lumen is a medication administration lumen to be used to administer the medication to the patient; and controlling a user feedback device to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user based on whether the lumen comprises a medication administration lumen to be used to administer the medication to the patient.

[0060] Clause 16. The sensor assembly of any of clauses 1 to 15, wherein the one or more images include a series of images including a syringe administering a medication to a patient, and wherein the at least one processor is configured to determine, based on the one or more images, information associated with the administration of a medication to the patient by detecting movement of a stopper and / or plunger rod of the syringe in the one or more images, and determining, based on the detected movement, at least one of the following administration parameters: patency of the lumen, average administration rate of the medication, current administration rate of the medication, stability index of the current administration rate of the medication, amount of the medication administered, completion of administration of the medication to the patient, or any combination thereof, and controlling a user feedback device to provide an audio and / or visual output to the user based on the at least one administration parameter.

[0061] 17. The sensor assembly of any of clauses 1-16, wherein the one or more images include a series of images including one or more flushing syringes connected to the lumen during a flushing procedure, and wherein at least one processor is configured to determine, based on the one or more images, information associated with drug administration to the patient by: detecting a lumen identifier element associated with the lumen in the one or more images; and determining lumen information associated with the lumen based on the detected lumen identifier element, wherein the lumen information includes a unique identifier for the lumen; detecting one or more flushing syringe identifier elements associated with one or more flushing syringes in the one or more images; and determining flushing syringe information associated with the one or more flushing syringes based on the one or more detected flushing syringe identifier elements, wherein the flushing syringe information includes a number of flushing syringes used for the flushing procedure; and determining, based on the lumen information and the flushing syringe information, that a flushing procedure has been performed on the lumen, the number of flushing syringes used for the flushing procedure, and / or the type of flushing procedure performed (e.g., continuous flush, partial flush, pulsed flush, etc.).

[0062] Clause 18. The sensor assembly of any of clauses 1 to 17, further comprising a wireless communication circuit configured to communicate wirelessly with an external computing device, wherein the at least one processor is configured to control the wireless communication circuit to wirelessly communicate information associated with the administration of a medication to the patient to the external computing device.

[0063] Clause 19. A system comprising: an external computing device; and one or more sensor assemblies, each sensor assembly of the one or more sensor assemblies including an image capture device configured to capture one or more images, a user feedback device configured to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user, a mechanical connector configured to connect the sensor assembly to a lumen and / or a syringe configured to be connected to the lumen, and a wireless communication link configured to facilitate communication between the external computing device; wherein the external computing device includes a processor coupled to a memory, the processor configured to: for each sensor assembly, receive one or more images captured by the image capture device; determine information associated with administering a medication to a patient based on the one or more images; and control, based on the information, the user feedback device of the sensor assembly to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user via the wireless communication link.

[0064] Clause 20. One or more sensor assemblies. The system of clause 19 includes multiple sensor assemblies.

[0065] Clause 21. A method comprising: capturing one or more images with an image capture device of a sensor assembly, the sensor assembly including a mechanical connector connecting the sensor assembly to the lumen and / or a syringe configured to be connected to the lumen; acquiring, with at least one processor of the sensor assembly, the one or more images captured by the image capture device; determining, with the at least one processor of the sensor assembly, information associated with administering a medication to a patient based on the one or more images; and controlling, with the at least one processor of the sensor assembly, a user feedback device of the sensor assembly to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user based on the information.

[0066] Clause 22. The method of clause 21, further comprising automatically capturing, by an image capture device of the sensor assembly, one or more images in response to connection of the mechanical connector to the lumen and / or syringe.

[0067] Clause 23. The method of any of clauses 21 and 22, wherein the sensor assembly further includes a housing containing an image capture device, a user feedback device, and at least one processor, wherein a mechanical connector extends from a sidewall of the housing, and wherein a field of view of the image capture device is fixed relative to the housing and / or the mechanical connector, and wherein, when the mechanical connector connects the sensor assembly to the lumen and / or a syringe connected to the lumen, the field of view of the image capture device includes the syringe.

[0068] Clause 24. The method of any of clauses 21-23, wherein the mechanical connector includes an opening in a sidewall extending from the housing, the opening configured to receive the lumen and / or barrel of the syringe.

[0069] Clause 25. The method of any of clauses 21-24, further comprising automatically capturing, by an image capture device of the sensor assembly, one or more images in response to the lumen and / or barrel of the syringe being received in the opening.

[0070] Clause 26. The method of any of clauses 21 to 25, wherein the mechanical connector comprises a rigid deformable clip.

[0071] Clause 27. The method of any of clauses 21 to 26, wherein the mechanical connector comprises a butterfly clip.

[0072] Clause 28. The method of any of clauses 21-27, further comprising automatically capturing, by an image capture device of the sensor assembly, one or more images in response to actuation of the butterfly clip.

[0073] Clause 29. The method of any of clauses 21 to 28, wherein the mechanical connector includes arcuate jaws configured to be actuated by one or more buttons, each of the arcuate jaws connected at a first end to a hinge and including an inwardly facing surface configured to surround an outer surface of the lumen and / or syringe, the hinge configured to bias second ends of the arcuate jaws together, and the one or more buttons configured to separate the arcuate jaws from one another in response to actuation of the one or more buttons.

[0074] Clause 30. The method of any of clauses 21 to 29, further comprising automatically capturing, by an image capture device of the sensor assembly, one or more images in response to actuation of one or more buttons.

[0075] Clause 31. The method of any of clauses 21 to 30, wherein determining, by at least one processor of the sensor assembly, information associated with administering a medication to the patient based on the one or more images, includes detecting, in the one or more images, a patient identifier element associated with the patient; and determining, based on the detected patient identifier element, patient information associated with the patient, wherein the patient information includes an indication of the type and / or dosage of medication to be administered to the patient, and / or a unique identifier of a medication administration lumen to be used to administer the medication to the patient.

[0076] Clause 32. The method of any of clauses 21 to 31, wherein determining, by at least one processor of the sensor assembly, information associated with administering a medication to the patient based on the one or more images, comprises: detecting a syringe identifier element associated with the syringe in the one or more images; and determining syringe information associated with the syringe based on the detected syringe identifier element, the syringe information including the type and / or dosage of medication contained in the syringe.

[0077] Clause 33. The method of any of clauses 21 to 32, wherein determining, by at least one processor of the sensor assembly, information associated with administering a medication to the patient based on the one or more images, includes determining, based on the patient information and the syringe information, whether the medication contained in the syringe is the correct type and / or correct dosage of medication to be administered to the patient; and controlling a user feedback device to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user based on whether the medication contained in the syringe contains the correct type and / or correct dosage of medication to be administered to the patient.

[0078] Clause 34. The method of any of clauses 21 to 33, wherein determining, by at least one processor of the sensor assembly, information associated with administration of a drug to the patient based on the one or more images, includes detecting, in the one or more images, a lumen identifier element associated with the lumen; and determining lumen information associated with the lumen based on the detected lumen identifier element, wherein the lumen information includes a unique identifier for the lumen.

[0079] Clause 35. The method of any of clauses 21 to 34, wherein determining, by at least one processor of the sensor assembly, information associated with administering a medication to the patient based on the one or more images, includes determining, based on the lumen information and the syringe information, whether the lumen is a medication administration lumen to be used to administer a medication to the patient; and controlling a user feedback device to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user based on whether the lumen includes a medication administration lumen to be used to administer a medication to the patient.

[0080] Clause 36. The method of any of clauses 21 to 35, wherein the one or more images include a series of images including a syringe administering a drug to a patient, and wherein determining, by at least one processor of the sensor assembly, information associated with administering a drug to the patient based on the one or more images, comprises: detecting movement of a stopper and / or plunger rod of the syringe in the one or more images; and determining, based on the detected movement, at least one of the following administration parameters: patency of the lumen; average administration rate of the drug; current administration rate of the drug; stability index for the current administration rate of the drug; amount of the drug administered; completion of administration of the drug to the patient, or any combination thereof; and controlling a user feedback device to provide an audio and / or visual output to the user based on the at least one administration parameter.

[0081] Clause 37. The method of any of clauses 21 to 36, wherein the one or more images include a series of images including one or more flushing syringes connected to the lumen during a cleaning procedure, and wherein determining, by at least one processor of the sensor assembly, based on the one or more images, information associated with the administration of a medication to the patient includes the steps of: detecting, in the one or more images, a lumen identifier element associated with the lumen; and determining lumen information associated with the lumen based on the detected lumen identifier element, wherein the lumen information includes a unique identifier for the lumen; detecting, in the one or more images, one or more flushing syringe identifier elements associated with one or more flushing syringes; and determining, based on the one or more detected flushing syringe identifier elements, flushing syringe information associated with the one or more flushing syringes, wherein the flushing syringe information includes a number of flushing syringes used for the cleaning procedure; and determining, based on the lumen information and the flushing syringe information, that a cleaning procedure has been performed on the lumen, the number of flushing syringes used for the cleaning procedure, and / or the type of cleaning procedure performed (e.g., continuous flush, partial flush, pulsed flush, etc.).

[0082] Clause 38. The method of any of clauses 21 to 37, further comprising controlling, by at least one processor of the sensor assembly, wireless communication circuitry of the sensor assembly to wirelessly communicate information associated with the administration of medication to the patient to an external computing device.

[0083] These and other features and characteristics of the present disclosure, as well as the method of operation and function of the associated elements and combinations of parts of structure, and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent from a consideration of the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part hereof, and in which like reference numerals indicate corresponding parts in the various views. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purposes of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of limitation. As used in this specification and the claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0084] Further advantages and details of embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure are explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying schematic drawings.

[0085] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 illustrates a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of an environment in which the systems, devices, products, apparatus, and / or methods described herein may be implemented. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a diagram of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of components of one or more devices and / or one or more systems of FIG. 1A. [Figure 2A] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 2B] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 2C] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 2D] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 2E] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 3A]1A-1C illustrate implementations of non-limiting embodiments or aspects of a base for a sensor assembly. [Figure 3B] 1A-1C illustrate implementations of non-limiting embodiments or aspects of a base for a sensor assembly. [Figure 3C] 1A-1C illustrate implementations of non-limiting embodiments or aspects of a base for a sensor assembly. [Figure 3D] 1A-1C illustrate implementations of non-limiting embodiments or aspects of a base for a sensor assembly. [Figure 4A] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 4B] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 4C] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 4D] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 4E] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 4F] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 4G] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 4H] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 5A] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 5B] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 5C] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 5D] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 5E]1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 5F] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 5G] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 5H] 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a sensor assembly. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 illustrates an implementation of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a communication network for a sensor assembly. [Figure 7] 1 is a flowchart of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a process for monitoring push medication administration from a syringe to a patient. [Figure 8A] 1 is a flowchart of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a process for monitoring push medication administration from a syringe to a patient. [Figure 8B] 1 is a flowchart of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a process for monitoring push medication administration from a syringe to a patient. [Figure 9] 1 is a flowchart of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a process for monitoring push medication administration from a syringe to a patient. [Figure 10] 1 is a flowchart of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a process for monitoring push medication administration from a syringe to a patient. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0086] It is to be understood that the present disclosure may assume various alternative modifications and step sequences, unless expressly specified otherwise. Also, it is to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the following specification are merely exemplary and non-limiting embodiments or aspects. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments or aspects disclosed herein are not to be considered limiting.

[0087] For purposes of the following description, the terms "end," "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "lateral," "longitudinal," and their derivatives shall refer to the present disclosure as oriented in the drawings. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure may assume various alternative modifications and step sequences, unless expressly specified otherwise. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the following specification are merely exemplary embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments or aspects of embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered limiting, unless otherwise indicated.

[0088] No aspect, component, element, structure, act, step, function, instruction, etc. used herein should be construed as critical or essential unless expressly described as such. Also, as used herein, the articles "a" and "an" are intended to include one or more items and may be used interchangeably with "one or more" and "at least one." Further, as used herein, the term "set" is intended to include one or more items (e.g., related items, unrelated items, combinations of related and unrelated items, etc.) and may be used interchangeably with "one or more" or "at least one." Where only one item is intended, the term "one" or similar language is used. Also, as used herein, terms such as "has," "have," and "having" are intended to be open-ended terms. Further, the phrase "based on" is intended to mean "based at least in part on," unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0089] As used herein, the terms “communication” and “communicating” refer to the receipt or transfer of one or more signals, messages, commands, or other types of data. A unit (e.g., any device, system, or component thereof) communicating with another unit means that the unit can receive data from and / or transmit data to the other unit, directly or indirectly. This may refer to a direct or indirect connection that is wired and / or wireless in nature. Furthermore, two units may be in communication with each other even if the transmitted data may be modified, processed, relayed, and / or routed between the first and second units. For example, a first unit may be in communication with a second unit even if the first unit passively receives data and does not actively transmit data to the second unit. As another example, a first unit may be in communication with a second unit if an intermediate unit processes data from the unit and transmits the processed data to the second unit. It will be appreciated that numerous other configurations are possible.

[0090] It will be apparent that the systems and / or methods described herein can be implemented in various forms of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. The actual dedicated control hardware or software code used to implement these systems and / or methods is not limiting of the implementation. Thus, the operation and behavior of the systems and / or methods are described herein without reference to specific software code, and it will be understood that software and hardware can be designed to implement the systems and / or methods based on the description herein.

[0091] Some non-limiting embodiments or aspects are described herein in terms of thresholds. As used herein, meeting a threshold may refer to a value being greater than the threshold, more than the threshold, higher than the threshold, equal to or greater than the threshold, less than the threshold, less than the threshold, lower than the threshold, less than or equal to the threshold, equal to the threshold, etc.

[0092] As used herein, the terms “computing device” or “computer device” may refer to one or more electronic devices configured to communicate, directly or indirectly, with or over one or more networks. A computing device may be a mobile device, a desktop computer, etc. Furthermore, the term “computer” may refer to any computing device that includes the necessary components for receiving, processing, and outputting data, typically including a display, a processor, memory, input devices, and a network interface. An “application” or “application program interface” (API) refers to computer code or other data sorted on a computer-readable medium that can be executed by a processor to facilitate interaction between software components, such as a client-side front end for receiving data from a client and / or a server-side back end. An “interface” refers to a generated display, such as one or more graphical user interfaces (GUIs), with which a user may interact, either directly or indirectly (e.g., through a keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, etc.).

[0093] As used herein, the term "server" may refer to or include one or more processors or computers, storage devices, or similar computer configurations operated by or facilitating communication and processing for multiple parties in a network environment, such as the Internet, although it should be understood that communication may be facilitated via one or more public or private network environments, and various other configurations are possible. Furthermore, multiple computers, e.g., servers, or other computerized devices, such as POS devices, communicating directly or indirectly in a network environment may constitute a "system," such as a merchant's POS system. As used herein, the term "data center" may include one or more servers, other computing devices, and / or databases.

[0094] As used herein, the term “mobile device” may refer to one or more portable electronic devices configured to communicate with one or more networks. By way of example, a mobile device may include a cellular phone (e.g., a smartphone or a standard cellular phone), a portable computer (e.g., a tablet computer, a laptop computer, etc.), a wearable device (e.g., a watch, eyeglasses, lenses, clothing, etc.), a personal digital assistant (PDA), and / or other similar devices. As used herein, the terms “client device” and “user device” refer to any electronic device configured to communicate with one or more servers or remote devices and / or systems. A client device or user device may include a mobile device, a network-enabled appliance (e.g., a network-enabled television, a refrigerator, a thermostat, etc.), a computer, and / or any other device or system capable of communicating with a network.

[0095] As used herein, the terms "application" or "application program interface" (API) refer to computer code, a set of rules, or other data sorted on a computer-readable medium that can be executed by a processor to facilitate interaction between software components, such as a client-side front-end for receiving data from a client and / or a server-side back-end. An "interface" refers to a generated display, such as one or more graphical user interfaces (GUIs), with which a user may interact, either directly or indirectly (e.g., through a keyboard, mouse, etc.).

[0096] 1A, illustrated is a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of an environment 100 in which the systems, devices, products, apparatuses, and / or methods described herein may be implemented. As shown in FIG. 1A, the environment 100 may include a medical device 102, a sensor assembly 104, and / or a computing device 106. Also, referring to FIG. 1B, illustrated is a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of one or more devices and / or components of one or more systems of FIG. 1A.

[0097] The medical device 102 may include a lumen 102a (e.g., an IV line, a catheter, etc.) and / or a syringe 102b configured to be connected to the lumen 102a (e.g., via a needleless connector, etc.). The syringe 102b may include a syringe barrel 112, a plunger rod 114, and / or a stopper 116 (see, e.g., FIG. 4E). The syringe barrel 112 may extend between a proximal end including a proximal opening configured to receive the stopper 116 and / or the plunger rod 114, and a distal end including a distal opening (e.g., a luer lock opening, etc.) configured to be connected to an IV line or catheter (e.g., via a needleless connector, etc.) and through which a fluid (e.g., a medication, etc.) can be ejected from the syringe 102b. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the medical device 102 may include at least one of the following medical devices: a peripheral IV catheter (PIVC), a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC), a midline catheter, a central venous catheter (CVC), a needleless connector, a catheter dressing, a catheter stabilizing device, an antiseptic cap, an antiseptic swab or wipe, an IV tubing set, an extension set, a Y-connector, a stopcock, an infusion pump, an irrigation syringe, a medication administration syringe, a caregiver glove, an IV fluid bag, a medication dispensing cabinet, an ultrasound device, a sharps collector, or any combination thereof.

[0098] The identifier element 118 (e.g., tag, label, code, etc.) may be associated with (e.g., removably attached, permanently attached, integrated into, implemented, etc.) the medical device 102 (e.g., lumen 102a, syringe 102b, etc.) and / or the patient (e.g., patient wristband, etc.). For example, the identifier element 118 may encapsulate a device identifier associated with the type and / or content of the medical device 102 associated with the identifier element 118, and / or uniquely identify the medical device 102 associated with the identifier element 118 from other medical devices, and / or indicate the orientation of the medical device 102 within the environment 100 and / or relative to another medical device (e.g., fluid flow path direction through the medical device, input or inlet and output or outlet locations of the medical device, etc.). As an example, the identifier element 118 may encapsulate a unique patient identifier associated with a particular patient and / or patient information, such as a unique patient identification number, drug allergies, blood type, patient vital signs, test results, current disease state and / or clinical diagnosis, previously administered medications, medical orders (e.g., medication, dose, route of administration, treatment schedule, etc.), historical patient information (e.g., disease state, clinical diagnosis, dosing history, etc.), etc. The identifier element 118 may include at least one of a colorized pattern, a reflective pattern, a fluorescent pattern, a predetermined shape and color, an LED pattern, a barcode (e.g., 1D barcode, 2D barcode, etc.), a fiducial marker (e.g., AprilTag, etc.), a holographic marker, or any combination thereof, which may encapsulate a device identifier and / or a patient identifier.

[0099] The sensor assembly 104 may include a housing 140 and a mechanical connector 142. The housing 140 may include (e.g., house, contain, etc.) an image capture device 144, a processor 146, wireless communication circuitry 148, a user feedback device 150, a power source 152, a memory 154, and / or a real-time clock (RTC) 156.

[0100] Mechanical connector 142 may be configured to connect or attach (e.g., removably attach, etc.) housing 140 to an exterior surface of medical device 102 (e.g., to lumen 102a, to barrel 112 of syringe 102b, etc.). For example, housing 140 may be removably attached to mechanical connector 142, permanently attached to mechanical connector 142, and / or integral with mechanical connector 142. By way of example, mechanical connector 142 may extend from a sidewall of housing 140. Further details regarding non-limiting embodiments or aspects of mechanical connector 142 are provided below with respect to Figures 2A-2E, 3A-3D, 4A-4H, and 5A-5H.

[0101] Image capture device 144 may include a camera, such as a digital monocular camera, an infrared camera, a stereo camera, a single camera, etc., configured to capture one or more images. For example, image capture device 144 may be configured to capture multiple images (e.g., as a series of images, etc.) over a period of time. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, image capture device 144 is configured to automatically capture one or more images in response to connection of mechanical connector 142 to lumen 102a and / or syringe 102b. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the field of view of image capture device 144 is fixed relative to housing 140 and / or mechanical connector 142 such that, with mechanical connector 142 connecting housing 140 of sensor assembly 104 to lumen 102a and / or syringe 102b connected to lumen 102a, the field of view of the image capture device includes lumen 102a and / or syringe 102b. For example, the fixed field of view of the image capture device 144 may include the identifier element 118 on the lumen 102a and / or the syringe 102b.

[0102] The processor 146 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), etc.) may be programmed and / or configured to obtain one or more images captured by the image capture device 142, determine information associated with drug administration to the patient based on the one or more images, and, based on the information, control the user feedback device 150 to provide an audio and / or visual output to the user. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the processor 146 may include a low-power microcontroller unit (MCU). For example, the information associated with drug administration to the patient may include patient information, lumen information, syringe information, flush syringe information, etc.

[0103] The processor 146 may be programmed and / or configured to process one or more images using one or more object detection techniques (e.g., deep learning techniques, image processing techniques, image segmentation techniques, etc.) to identify the identifier element 118, determine whether the syringe 102b is connected to the lumen 102a, and / or detect movement of an actuation mechanism or fluid ejection mechanism, such as the plunger rod 114 and / or the stopper 116, during a fluid administration procedure using the syringe 102b. For example, deep learning techniques may include bounding box techniques that generate box labels for objects of interest in an image (e.g., the identifier element 118, the stopper 116, the plunger rod 114, etc.), image masking techniques (e.g., masked FRCNN (RCNN or CNN) that capture specific shapes of objects in an image (e.g., the identifier element 118, the stopper 116, the plunger rod 114, etc.), trained neural networks that identify objects in an image (e.g., the identifier element 118, the stopper 116, the plunger rod 114, etc.), etc. By way of example, image processing techniques may include cross correlation image processing techniques, image contrasting techniques, binary or colored filtering techniques, etc.

[0104] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the identifier element 118 may include an AprilTag. For example, the identifier element 118 may include an AprilTag V3 of type customTag48h12, which allows AprilTag V3 detection to be used to determine a unique ID that may indicate (e.g., in the leading digits, etc.) the type of medical device 102 associated with the identifier element 118, a unique serial number for that particular medical device 102 (e.g., in the trailing digits, etc.), and / or the location of the identifier element 118 in the field of view (FOV) of the image capture device 144 (e.g., x, y, and z coordinates, directional vectors relative to the Z, Y, and X axes, etc.). However, non-limiting embodiments or aspects are not so limited, and the identifier element 118 may include a QR code, a barcode (e.g., a 1D barcode, a 2D barcode, etc.), an Aztec code, a Data Matrix code, an ArUco marker, a colorized pattern, a reflective pattern, a fluorescent pattern, a predetermined shape and / or color (e.g., a red pentagon, a blue hexagon, etc.), an LED pattern, a hologram, etc. that encapsulates an identifier associated with the type of medical device 102 associated with the identifier element 118, uniquely identifies the medical device 102 associated with the identifier element 118 from other medical devices, and / or encapsulates pose information associated with the 3D position of the identifier element 118.

[0105] The wireless communication circuitry 148 may be configured to communicate wirelessly with the computing device 106. For example, the wireless communication circuitry 148 may be configured to communicate information associated with administering a medication to a patient to the computing device 106. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the wireless communication device 148 includes one or more computing devices, chips, contactless transmitters, contactless transceivers, NFC transmitters, RFID transmitters, contact-based transmitters, Bluetooth transceivers, etc. that enable the wireless communication circuitry 148 to receive information directly from and / or communicate information directly to the computing device 106 via a short-range wireless communication connection (e.g., a communication connection using an NFC protocol, a communication connection using radio frequency identification (RFID), a communication connection using the Bluetooth wireless technology standard, etc.).

[0106] User feedback device 150 may be configured to provide an audio and / or visual output to the user. For example, user feedback device 150 may include at least one of a display (e.g., an LCD display, etc.), a light-emitting diode (LED), a plurality of LEDs, an audio output device (e.g., a buzzer, a speaker, etc.), a tactile or haptic feedback device (e.g., a vibrator, etc.), or any combination thereof.

[0107] The power source 152 may be configured to power the image capture device 144, the processor 146, the wireless communication circuitry 148, the user feedback device 150, the memory 154, and / or the RTC 156. For example, the power source 152 may include a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery, a disposable battery, etc.), an energy harvester (e.g., an energy harvester configured to obtain energy from one or more external sources, such as electromagnetic energy, solar energy, thermal energy, wind energy, salinity gradient, kinetic energy, etc.), or any combination thereof.

[0108] Memory 154 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), and / or another type of dynamic or static storage device (e.g., flash memory, magnetic memory, optical memory, etc.) that stores information and / or instructions for use by processor 146. For example, sensor assembly 104 may perform one or more processes described herein based on processor 146 executing software instructions stored by a computer-readable medium such as memory 154. Computer-readable media (e.g., non-transitory computer-readable media) are defined herein as non-transitory memory devices. Non-transitory memory devices include memory space located within a single physical storage device or memory space spread across multiple physical storage devices. When executed, the software instructions stored in memory 154 may cause processor 146 to perform one or more processes described herein. Additionally or alternatively, hardwired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions to perform one or more processes described herein. Thus, embodiments or aspects described herein are not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software.

[0109] The RTC 156 may include a computer clock (e.g., in the form of an integrated circuit, etc.) that keeps track of the current time. For example, the processor 146 may time stamp images and / or information associated with administering a medication to a patient.

[0110] The base 105 may be configured to hold the sensor assembly 104 and / or recharge the battery of the power source 152 in the sensor assembly 104 for reuse of the sensor assembly 104. Further details regarding non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the mechanical connector 142 are provided below with respect to Figures 3A-3D.

[0111] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the sensor assembly 104 may include a client device or a user device. For example, the sensor assembly 104 may include one or more computing systems including one or more processors (e.g., one or more computing devices, one or more server computers, one or more mobile computing devices, one or more tablet computers, etc.). By way of example, the sensor assembly 104 may include a tablet computer or a mobile computing device, such as an Apple® iPad, an Apple® iPhone, an Android® tablet, an Android® phone, etc. For example, the sensor assembly 104 may include a smartphone or tablet carried by a nurse and / or another computing device located in a patient care area to manage patient care and / or EMR documentation (e.g., a nurse's workstation, a bedside station, etc.). By way of example, the display of such a computing device may function as a user feedback device 150, such as to provide medication confirmation, dosing information and / or guidance (e.g., dosing rate, contraindications, etc.), and / or dose administration rate feedback. In one such example, one or more of the image capture device 144, the processor 146, the wireless communication circuitry 148, the user feedback device 150, the power source 152, the memory 154, and / or the real-time clock (RTC) 156 may be implemented by such a computing device that need not include the mechanical connector 142, and / or such a computing device may communicate with one or more of the image capture device 144, the processor 146, the wireless communication circuitry 148, the user feedback device 150, the power source 152, the memory 154, and / or the real-time clock (RTC) 156 in the housing 140 connected to the medical device 102 via the mechanical connector 142.For example, such a computing device may be freestanding (e.g., via a phone or tablet stand, via a mobile nurse workstation, etc.) at a location near the patient in a manner that allows a nurse to have a hand on the medical device 102. In this way, if a user already carries a smartphone or tablet for interacting with the EMR, such a device may be used to implement the sensor assembly 104 and / or one or more components of the sensor assembly 104 (e.g., as an additional display or user feedback device, etc.).

[0112] Computing device 106 may include one or more devices capable of receiving information and / or data from and / or communicating information and / or data to sensor assembly 104 and / or one or more other computing devices. For example, computing device 106 may include a server, a group of servers, a mobile device, a group of mobile devices, a receiving unit, a router device, a bridge device, a hub device, etc. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, computing device 106 includes one or more computing devices, chips, contactless transmitters, contactless transceivers, NFC transmitters, RFID transmitters, Bluetooth transceivers, contact-based transmitters, etc. that enable computing device 106 to receive information directly from and / or communicate information directly to wireless communication circuitry 148 of sensor assembly 104 via a short-range wireless communication connection (e.g., a communication connection using an NFC protocol, a communication connection using radio frequency identification (RFID), a communication connection using the Bluetooth wireless technology standard, etc.). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the computing device 106 may include and / or upload information and / or data to an electronic data management system, such as a hospital records system, a system used to collect trial-related information during a clinical trial, etc.

[0113] The number and configuration of devices and systems shown in Figures 1A and 1B are provided as an example. There may be additional, fewer, different, or differently configured devices and / or systems compared to those shown in Figures 1A and 1B. Furthermore, two or more devices and / or systems shown in Figures 1A and 1B may be implemented within a single device and / or system, or a single device and / or system shown in Figures 1A and 1B may be implemented as multiple distributed devices and / or systems. Additionally or alternatively, a set of devices and / or systems (e.g., one or more devices or systems) of environment 100 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of devices and / or systems of environment 100.

[0114] 2A-2E , which illustrate an implementation 200 of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of the sensor assembly 104, the mechanical connector 142 may include an opening 202 in a cylindrical sidewall 204 extending from the housing 140. For example, as shown in FIG. 2A , the sidewall of the housing 140 may include a cylindrical sidewall 204 extending along the length of the housing 140, with the opening 202 in the cylindrical sidewall 204 extending axially of the cylindrical shape 204 along the length of the housing 140. The opening 202 may be configured to receive and / or retain the lumen 102 a and / or the barrel 112 of the syringe 102 b.

[0115] Image capture device 144 may be located in a portion of a sidewall of housing 140 that extends away from mechanical connector 142 in a direction perpendicular to and / or at an angle to the length of the cylindrical shape of mechanical connector 142, including opening 202. For example, the field of view of image capture device 144 may include a fixed field of view relative to housing 140 and / or mechanical connector 142 such that image capture device 144 may capture images of an area immediately adjacent to and extending away from opening 202 at a first end of the cylindrical shape that is closer to image capture device 144 than a second end of the cylindrical shape opposite the first end (see, e.g., FIG. 2D ). As an example, the focal plane of image capture device 144 may be at a fixed diagonal angle relative to housing 140 and / or mechanical connector 142. In one such example, the field of view of the image capture device 144 may automatically include the identifier element 118 of the lumen 102a and / or the syringe 102b when the lumen 102a and / or the syringe 102b are connected to the mechanical connector 142 (see, e.g., FIG. 2D ).

[0116] As shown in Figures 2B and 2C, the housing 140 may have a shape and size that allows a user to hold the housing 140 in one hand, for example, to scan or capture one or more images of the identifier element 118 associated with the patient, and / or that allows a user to hold the housing 140 in a first hand while connecting the mechanical connector 142 to the lumen 102a and / or syringe 102b held in a second hand.

[0117] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, mechanical interface 142 including opening 202 can include a rigid, deformable clip. For example, cylindrical sidewall 204 of housing 140 around opening 202 can be configured to clip onto the outer surface of lumen 102 a and / or barrel 112 of syringe 102 b. By way of example, cylindrical sidewall 204 can include a material that forms an open cylinder shape configured to deform around and grip the outer surface of lumen 102 a and / or barrel 112 of syringe 102 b when mechanical interface 142 including opening 202 is pressed onto the barrel 112 of lumen 102 a and / or syringe 102 b.

[0118] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, image capture device 144 may be configured to automatically capture one or more images in response to lumen 102 a and / or barrel 112 of syringe 102 b being received in opening 202. For example, cylindrical sidewall 204 of housing 140 within opening 202 may include a sensor (e.g., a mechanical sensor or button, a proximity sensor, a light sensor, etc.) configured to detect the presence of lumen 102 a and / or barrel 112 of syringe 102 b within opening 202 and, in response, provide a signal to processor 146 to control image capture device 144 to initiate the capture of one or more images.

[0119] 3A-3D , which illustrate a non-limiting embodiment or implementation 300 of a base 105 for a sensor assembly 104, the base 105 may include a charging platform 130 having an opening 132 for receiving the sensor assembly 104. The opening 132 may include charging pins that engage corresponding contacts on a sidewall of the housing 140 of the sensor assembly 104 to charge a battery in the power source 152 of the sensor assembly 104, and / or the charging platform may include wireless charging circuitry configured to wirelessly charge the battery in the power source 152 of the sensor assembly 104. One or more LEDs on the base 105 or charging platform 130 may be configured to emit light (e.g., the number of illuminated LEDs may indicate the charge level of the sensor assembly 104, a flashing LED may indicate charging of the sensor assembly 104, etc.). As shown in FIG. 3B , the base 105 may be configured to sit on a desk or nurse's workstation. 3C, the base 105 may include a clip 146 configured to attach the base 105 to an IV pole. As shown in FIG. 3D, the sensor assembly 104 may be configured to operate (e.g., capture one or more images, process one or more images, etc.) while located in the base 105 and / or while charging. As an example, the sensor assembly may be configured to automatically scan a medical device 102 (e.g., an IV medication bag, etc.) including the identifier element 118 in response to a user placing the identifier element 118 within the field of view of the image capture device 144 of the sensor assembly 104.

[0120] 4A-4H , which illustrate an implementation 400 of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of the sensor assembly 104, the mechanical connector 142 can include a butterfly-style clip. For example, the mechanical connector 142 can include jaws 402, each having a lower portion 404 connected together at a hinge (e.g., a spring, a pivot, a living hinge molded into a single, integral clip device including the housing 140, etc.) connected to the housing 140. Each of the jaws 402 can include an inward-facing surface configured to wrap around an outer surface of the medical device 102 (e.g., the lumen 102 a, the barrel 112 of the syringe 102 b, the IV pole, etc.). The inward-facing surface of each of the jaws 402 may include an outward bulge or curved recess 405 in a portion of the inward-facing surface of the jaw 402 configured to contact the outer surface of the medical device 102 (e.g., lumen 102a, barrel 112 of syringe 102b, IV pole, etc.) when the jaws 402 are wrapped around the outer surface of the medical device 102. The hinge may be configured to bias the lower portions 404 of the jaws 402 together such that the inward-facing surfaces of the jaws 402 secure the medical device 102 between the jaws 402 (e.g., at the bulge 405, etc.). Each of the jaws 402 may have a handle 406 extending from an upper portion opposite its lower portion 404 that, when moved toward each other against the force of the hinge, separates the lower portions 404 from each other (e.g., see FIG. 4C ) and, for example, attaches to the lumen 102a (e.g., see FIG. 4D ).

[0121] In the same or similar manner as implementation 300, image capture device 144 may be located on a portion of a sidewall of housing 140 that extends away from mechanical connector 142 in a direction perpendicular to and / or at an angle to the space between jaws 402. For example, the field of view of image capture device 144 may include a fixed field of view relative to housing 140 and / or mechanical connector 142 such that image capture device 144 may capture an image of an area immediately adjacent to and extending away from a first side of jaw 402 that is closer to image capture device 144 than a second side of jaw 402 opposite the first side (see, e.g., FIG. 4D). In one such example, the field of view of image capture device 144 may automatically include identifier element 118 of lumen 102a and / or syringe 102b when lumen 102a and / or syringe 102b are connected to mechanical connector 142 (see, e.g., FIGS. 4F and 4G).

[0122] Also in the same or similar manner as implementation 300, as shown in Figures 4B and 4C, housing 140 may have a shape and size that allows a user to hold housing 140 in one hand, for example, to scan or capture one or more images of identifier element 118 associated with a patient, and / or that allows a user to hold housing 140 in a first hand while connecting mechanical connector 142 to lumen 102a and / or syringe 102b held in a second hand.

[0123] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, image capture device 144 may be configured to automatically capture one or more images in response to actuation of handle 406 (e.g., in response to actuation of a butterfly clip, etc.). For example, housing 140 (e.g., a hinge between jaws 402, etc.) may include a sensor (e.g., a mechanical sensor or button, a proximity sensor, a light sensor, etc.) configured to detect actuation of jaws 402 and / or the presence of lumen 102a and / or barrel 112 of syringe 102b between jaws 402 and, in response, provide a signal to processor 146 to control image capture device 144 to initiate capture of one or more images.

[0124] 5A-5H, which illustrate an implementation 500 of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of the sensor assembly 104, the mechanical connector 142 may include a button-actuated clip. For example, the mechanical connector 142 may include arcuate jaws 502 extending from the housing 140, each of which is connected together at a first end to a hinge within the housing 140 (e.g., a spring, a pivot, a living hinge molded into a single, integral clip device including the housing 140, etc.). Each of the arcuate jaws 502 may include an inward-facing surface configured to wrap around an outer surface of the medical device 102 (e.g., the lumen 102a, the barrel 112 of the syringe 102b, the IV pole, etc.). The hinge may be configured to bias second ends of the arcuate jaws 502 opposite the first ends together such that inwardly facing surfaces of the arcuate jaws 502 secure the medical device 102 between the arcuate jaws 502. The mechanical connector 142 may include one or more buttons 504 extending from a sidewall of the housing 140. Actuation of the one or more buttons 504 may cause the arcuate jaws 502 to separate from one another (see, e.g., FIG. 5C ) and become attached to, for example, a syringe 102b (see, e.g., FIG. 4D ).

[0125] In the same or similar manner as implementations 300 and / or 400, image capture device 144 may be located on a portion of a sidewall of housing 140 that extends away from mechanical connector 142 in a direction perpendicular to and / or at an angle to the space between arcuate jaws 502. For example, the field of view of image capture device 144 may comprise a fixed field of view relative to housing 140 and / or mechanical connector 142 such that image capture device 144 may capture images of an area immediately adjacent to and extending away from a first side of arcuate jaws 502 that is closer to image capture device 144 than a second side of arcuate jaws 502 opposite the first side (see, e.g., FIGS. 5F and 5G ). In one such example, the field of view of the image capture device 144 may automatically include the identifier element 118 of the lumen 102a and / or the syringe 102b when the lumen 102a and / or the syringe 102b are connected to the mechanical connector 142 (see, for example, Figures 5F and 5G).

[0126] Also in the same or similar manner as implementations 300 and / or 400, as shown in Figures 5B and 5C, housing 140 may have a shape and size that allows a user to hold housing 140 in one hand, for example, to scan or capture one or more images of identifier element 118 associated with a patient, and / or that allows a user to hold housing 140 in a first hand while connecting mechanical connector 142 to lumen 102a and / or syringe 102b held in a second hand.

[0127] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, image capture device 144 may be configured to automatically capture one or more images in response to actuation of one or more buttons 504. For example, housing 140 may include a sensor (e.g., a mechanical sensor or button, a proximity sensor, an optical sensor, etc.) configured to detect actuation of one or more buttons and / or the presence of lumen 102a and / or barrel 112 of syringe 102b between jaws 402 and, in response, provide a signal to processor 146 to control image capture device 144 to initiate capture of one or more images.

[0128] Referring now to FIG. 6, FIG. 6 illustrates an implementation 600 of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a communications network for sensor assemblies. As shown in FIG. 6, the communications network may include multiple hubs 602 (e.g., Bluetooth® hubs, etc.) located throughout a hospital to create communications cells at locations where Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) devices, such as sensor assemblies 104, are expected to be used and / or where tracking is desired. For example, the low power requirements of Bluetooth® radios may enable small, low-cost consumable devices or sensors (e.g., small batteries, small form factors, etc.) and / or support data upload from an ecosystem of such small devices or sensors. Seamless and secure roaming from or to hubs may be managed by a central IoT access controller, which may be implemented by an external computing device 106, etc., and may use triangulation to precisely determine the location of each of the devices or sensors (e.g., each of the sensor assemblies 104, etc.).

[0129] 7, which is a flowchart of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a process 700 for monitoring push medication delivery from a syringe to a patient. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, one or more of the steps of process 700 may be performed (e.g., fully, partially, etc.) by sensor assembly 104 (e.g., one or more devices of sensing assembly 104, etc.). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, one or more of the steps of process 700 may be performed (e.g., fully, partially, etc.) by another device or group of devices separate from or including sensor assembly 104, such as computing device 106 (e.g., one or more devices of a system of computing device 106, etc.).

[0130] 7, at step 702, process 700 includes obtaining one or more images captured by an image capture device. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may obtain one or more images captured by image capture device 144. As an example, image capture device 144 of sensor assembly 104 may capture one or more images (e.g., multiple images captured over a period of time, etc.). In one such example, image capture device 144 may capture one or more images in response to connection of mechanical connector 142 to lumen 102a and / or syringe 102b and / or in response to actuation of mechanical connector 142.

[0131] 7, in step 704, process 700 includes determining information associated with administering a medication to the patient based on the one or more images. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may determine information associated with administering a medication to the patient based on the one or more images. By way of example, information associated with administering a medication to a patient may include, but is not limited to, 1) information regarding the medication source, such as medication type, medication amount, and medication concentration; 2) certain patient-specific information, such as patient identification number, drug allergies, blood type, etc.; 3) variable patient-specific information, such as patient vital signs, test results, current disease state and / or clinical diagnosis, and previously administered medications; 4) medical orders, such as medication, dose, route of administration, and treatment schedule; 5) clinical guidelines, such as known drug-drug interactions, recommended treatment protocols, and dosage restrictions; 6) environmental factors, such as the care area in which the medication is being administered, time, date, and temperature; 7) valve status, such as currently open (second state), currently closed (first state), or initiation of a manual override by a clinician; 8) historical patient information, such as disease state, clinical diagnosis, and medication history; and 9) any other relevant information applicable to determining whether a particular fluid administration is safe and appropriate for a patient. For example, information associated with administering a medication to a patient may include patient information, lumen information, syringe information, flush syringe information, etc.

[0132] The patient information may include at least one of the following parameters associated with the patient: a unique patient identifier, approved medications, approved medication dosages, approved medication administration lumen, approved medication administration times, patient medication allergies, or any combination thereof.

[0133] The lumen information may include at least one of the following parameters associated with the lumen: a unique lumen identifier, a unique patient identifier for the patient associated with the lumen, identifiers of one or more other medical devices connected to and / or forming the lumen, one or more previous medications previously administered through the lumen, or any combination thereof.

[0134] The syringe information may include at least one of the following parameters associated with the syringe: a unique syringe identifier, a type of medication contained in the syringe, a dosage of the medication contained in the syringe, a concentration of the medication contained in the syringe, a specified administration rate of the medication contained in the syringe, or any combination thereof.

[0135] The cleaning syringe information may include at least one of the following parameters associated with the cleaning syringe: a unique cleaning syringe identifier, a type of cleaning fluid contained in the cleaning syringe, an amount of cleaning fluid contained in the cleaning syringe, or any combination thereof.

[0136] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the processor 146 of the sensor assembly 104 (and / or the computing device 106) may determine a patient identifier, a lumen identifier, a syringe identifier, and / or a cleaning syringe identifier based on one or more images, and may use the patient identifier, lumen identifier, syringe identifier, and / or cleaning syringe identifier to access a database and / or lookup table (e.g., in the computing device 106, etc.) to determine associated patient information, lumen information, syringe information, cleaning syringe information.

[0137] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the information associated with the medication administration to the patient may include a caregiver (e.g., nurse, etc.) identifier associated with the sensor assembly 104 and / or a room identifier associated with the sensor assembly 104. For example, the sensor assembly may be assigned to a particular caregiver and / or a particular room in a hospital. As an example, the caregiver identifier and / or room identifier may be used (e.g., by the computing device 106, etc.) to calculate one or more analytics associated with the particular caregiver and / or the particular room.

[0138] Further details regarding non-limiting embodiments or aspects of step 704 of process 700 are provided below with respect to FIGS. 8A, 8B, 9, and 10.

[0139] 7, in step 706, process 700 includes controlling a user feedback device based on information associated with the administration of the medication to the patient. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may control user feedback device 150 to provide an audio and / or visual output to the user based on information associated with the administration of the medication to the patient.

[0140] Further details regarding non-limiting embodiments or aspects of step 706 of process 700 are provided below with respect to FIGS. 8A, 8B, 9, and 10.

[0141] 7, at step 708, process 700 includes providing information associated with the administration of a drug to the patient to an external computing device. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 may control wireless communication circuit 148 to communicate information associated with the administration of a drug to the patient to computing device 106. As an example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 may control wireless communication circuit 148 to communicate one or more images of one or more medical devices 102 (e.g., syringe 102b, etc.) connected to lumen 102a to computing device 106.

[0142] 7, at step 710, the process 700 includes analyzing information associated with the administration of a drug to the patient. For example, the computing device 106 may analyze the information associated with the administration of a drug to the patient. As an example, the computing device 106 may review one or more images to confirm that one or more medical devices 102 (e.g., syringe 102b, etc.) are effectively connected to the lumen 102a. As an example, the computing device 106 may calculate and / or display an analysis based on information associated with the administration of a drug to the patient and / or associated with multiple patients received from the multiple sensor assemblies 104, which may enable detection of patterns such as risky behavior.

[0143] 8A and 8B, which are flowcharts of non-limiting embodiments or aspects of a process 800 for monitoring push medication administration from a syringe to a patient. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, one or more of the steps of process 800 may be performed (e.g., fully, partially, etc.) by sensor assembly 104 (e.g., one or more devices of sensing assembly 104, etc.). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, one or more of the steps of process 700 may be performed (e.g., fully, partially, etc.) by another device or group of devices separate from or including sensor assembly 104, such as computing device 106 (e.g., one or more devices of a system of computing device 106, etc.).

[0144] 8A, in step 802, process 800 includes detecting a patient identifier element 118 associated with the patient in one or more images. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may detect a patient identifier element 118 associated with the patient in one or more images.

[0145] 8A , in step 804, process 800 includes determining patient information associated with the patient based on the detected patient identifier element 118. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may determine patient information associated with the patient based on the detected patient identifier element 118. As an example, the patient information may include an indication of the type and / or dosage of a medication to be administered to the patient and / or a unique identifier of a medication delivery lumen to be used to administer the medication to the patient.

[0146] 8A, in step 806, process 800 includes detecting a syringe identifier element 118 associated with the syringe in one or more images. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may detect a syringe identifier element 118 associated with syringe 102b in one or more images.

[0147] 8A , in step 808, process 800 includes determining syringe information associated with the syringe based on the detected syringe identifier element 118. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may determine syringe information associated with syringe 102b based on the detected syringe identifier element 118. As an example, the syringe information may include the type and / or dosage of medication contained in syringe 102b.

[0148] 8A , in step 810, process 800 includes determining, based on the patient information and the syringe information, whether the medication contained in the syringe is the correct type and / or dosage of medication to be administered to the patient. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may determine, based on the patient information and the syringe information, whether the medication contained in syringe 102b is the correct type and / or dosage of medication to be administered to the patient. As an example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may compare the medication, medication dosage, medication administration route or IV line, and / or medication administration time associated with the IV line with authorized patients, authorized medications, authorized medication dosages, authorized medication administration lumens, authorized medication administration times, and / or patient medication allergies associated with a patient identifier to reduce medication administration errors.

[0149] 8B, in step 812, process 800 includes controlling a user feedback device to provide an audio and / or visual output to the user based on whether the medication contained in the syringe includes the correct type and / or correct dosage of the medication to be administered to the patient. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may control user feedback device 150 to provide an audio and / or visual output to the user based on whether the medication contained in syringe 102b includes the correct type and / or correct dosage of the medication to be administered to the patient. As an example, if it is determined that the medication contained in syringe 102b does not contain the correct type and / or correct dosage of medication to be administered to the patient, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may control user feedback device 150 to emit an alert (e.g., a flashing red LED, etc.) indicating that the medication contained in syringe 102b is an inappropriate medication for the patient, an inappropriate dosage for the patient and / or medication, an inappropriate medication administration route for the patient and / or medication (e.g., an inappropriate lumen 102a), an inappropriate medication administration time for the patient and / or medication, and / or a patient medication allergy. As an example, if it is determined that the medication contained in syringe 102b contains the correct type and / or correct dosage of medication to be administered to the patient, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may control user feedback device 150 to emit an alert (e.g., a green flashing LED, etc.) indicating that the medication contained in syringe 102b is approved for administration to the patient.

[0150] 8B, in step 814, process 800 includes detecting lumen identifier element 118 associated with a lumen in one or more images. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may detect lumen identifier element 118 associated with lumen 102a in one or more images.

[0151] 8B , in step 816, process 800 includes determining lumen information associated with the lumen based on the detected lumen identifier element 118. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may determine lumen information associated with lumen 102a based on the detected lumen identifier element 118. As an example, the lumen information may include a unique identifier for lumen 102a.

[0152] 8B , in step 818, process 800 includes determining, based on the lumen information and the syringe information, whether the lumen is a drug delivery lumen that should be used to deliver the drug to the patient. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may determine, based on the lumen information and the syringe information, whether lumen 102a is a drug delivery lumen that should be used to deliver the drug to the patient (e.g., the correct lumen among multiple lumens associated with the patient, etc.). As an example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may compare the identifier of lumen 102a to approved drug delivery lumens.

[0153] 8B , in step 820, process 800 includes controlling a user feedback device to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user based on whether the lumen includes a drug delivery lumen that should be used to administer a drug to a patient. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may control user feedback device 150 to provide an audio and / or visual output to a user based on whether lumen 102a includes a drug delivery lumen that should be used to administer a drug to a patient. As an example, if it is determined that lumen 102a does not include a drug delivery lumen that should be used to administer a drug to a patient, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may control user feedback device 150 to emit an alert (e.g., a flashing red LED, etc.) indicating that lumen 102a is an unsuitable lumen for drug administration. As an example, if it is determined that lumen 102a includes a medication administration lumen that should be used to administer medication to a patient, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may control user feedback device 150 to emit an alert (e.g., a green flashing LED, etc.) indicating that lumen 102a is approved for medication administration.

[0154] 9, which is a flowchart of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a process 900 for monitoring push medication administration from a syringe to a patient. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, one or more of the steps of process 900 may be performed (e.g., fully, partially, etc.) by sensor assembly 104 (e.g., one or more devices of sensing assembly 104, etc.). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, one or more of the steps of process 900 may be performed (e.g., fully, partially, etc.) by another device or group of devices separate from or including sensor assembly 104, such as computing device 106 (e.g., one or more devices of a system of computing device 106, etc.).

[0155] 9 , in step 902, process 900 includes detecting movement of a stopper and / or plunger rod of a syringe in one or more images. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may detect movement of stopper 116 and / or plunger rod 114 of syringe 102b in one or more images. As an example, the one or more images may include a series of images including syringe 102b during medication administration to a patient. As an example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may monitor medication fluid administration and / or lumen cleaning by tracking movement of an actuation mechanism or fluid ejection mechanism, such as stopper 116 and / or plunger rod 114 of syringe 102b, during the fluid administration and / or cleaning procedure.

[0156] 9 , in step 904, process 900 includes determining, based on the detected movement and / or syringe information, at least one of the following administration parameters: lumen patency (e.g., catheter patency, etc.), average administration rate of the drug, current administration rate of the drug, stability index of the current administration rate of the drug, amount of the drug administered, completion of drug administration to the patient, or any combination thereof. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may determine, based on the detected movement, at least one of lumen patency (e.g., catheter patency, etc.), average administration rate of the drug, current administration rate of the drug, stability index of the current administration rate of the drug, amount of the drug administered, completion of drug administration to the patient, or any combination thereof. In one such example, the stability index of the current administration rate of the drug may include an indication of whether the current administration rate of the drug matches, is less than, or is greater than a specified or ideal administration rate of the drug. In one such example, the lumen patency may include an indication of lumen patency (eg, yes or positive, no or negative, percentage, etc.).

[0157] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the identifier element 118 of the syringe 102b may be used by the processor 146 of the sensor assembly 104 (and / or the computing device 106) to estimate the position of the stopper 116 and / or plunger rod 114 of the syringe 102b. For example, image processing software may record the initial position of the stopper 116 and / or plunger rod 114 of the syringe 102b relative to the position of the identifier element 118, and the image processing software may determine that a drug dispensing procedure has begun when the stopper 116 and / or plunger rod 114 of the syringe 102b has moved relative to the position of the identifier element 118. The fluid dispensing procedure may be assumed to be complete when the stopper 116 and / or plunger rod 114 of the syringe 102b has advanced a predetermined distance from the identifier element 118.

[0158] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the processor 146 of the sensor assembly 104 (and / or the computing device 106) may automatically identify the position of the stopper 116 and / or plunger rod 114 of the syringe 102b relative to other markers on the syringe 102b. For example, the markings may be graduated lines and / or indicia on the syringe barrel 112. As one example, movement of the stopper 116 and / or plunger rod 114 of the syringe 102b relative to the markings may be used to determine not only the start and dose, but also the amount of fluid administered.

[0159] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the processor 146 of the sensor assembly 104 (and / or the remote computing device 106) may determine positive lumen patency in response to detecting rearward or proximal movement of the syringe stopper and / or plunger rod that meets a threshold distance in one or more images. For example, an irrigation syringe may be used to check catheter patency by aspirating (e.g., pulling back, etc.) with the syringe plunger, and if the processor 146 of the sensor assembly 104 (and / or the remote computing device 106) determines that the syringe plunger has moved in a rearward direction a distance that meets the threshold distance, the processor 146 of the sensor assembly 104 (and / or the remote computing device 106) may confirm positive catheter patency and / or provide an indication of positive catheter patency to the user (e.g., via the user feedback device 150, etc.). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the processor 146 of the sensor assembly 104 (and / or the remote computing device 106) may additionally or alternatively confirm positive lumen patency in response to detecting blood in the lumen (e.g., in a catheter line, etc.) in one or more images (e.g., using image processing software, etc.).

[0160] 9, in step 906, process 900 includes controlling a user feedback device to provide an audio and / or visual output to the user based on the at least one administration parameter. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may control user feedback device 150 to provide an audio and / or visual output to the user based on the at least one administration parameter. As an example, the audio and / or visual output to the user may be associated with the at least one administration parameter.

[0161] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the processor 146 of the sensor assembly 104 (and / or the computing device 106) may control the user feedback device 150 to provide guidance regarding the rate of medication dosing or administration (e.g., fast, slow, "over X minutes," etc.). As one example, the processor 146 of the sensor assembly 104 (and / or the computing device 106) may compare the current administration rate to a prescribed or approved administration rate for the medication during a fluid administration procedure and, based on the comparison, provide guidance to maintain the administration rate, increase the administration rate, and / or decrease the administration rate. For example, during drug administration, the current administration rate of the drug may vary over the administration time period, and the processor 146 of the sensor assembly 104 (and / or the computing device 106) may compare the current administration rate to a prescribed rate or an ideal stable rate and determine whether the current administration rate should be increased, decreased, or maintained to match the prescribed or ideal administration rate (and / or may control the user feedback device 150 to provide prompts to the user to increase, decrease, or maintain the current administration rate to match the prescribed or ideal administration rate). As an example, some users may attempt to maintain a stable administration rate over the administration time period (e.g., one minute), while other users may administer four quarter doses rapidly over the administration time period, which may be less ideal from a pharmacokinetic standpoint than a more stable administration rate over the administration time period. In this manner, non-limiting embodiments or aspects of the present disclosure may improve the stability of drug administration.

[0162] 10, which is a flowchart of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a process 1000 for monitoring push medication administration from a syringe to a patient. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, one or more of the steps of process 1000 may be performed (e.g., fully, partially, etc.) by sensor assembly 104 (e.g., one or more devices of sensory assembly 104, etc.). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, one or more of the steps of process 1000 may be performed (e.g., fully, partially, etc.) by another device or group of devices separate from or including sensor assembly 104, such as computing device 106 (e.g., one or more devices of a system of computing device 106, etc.).

[0163] 10, in step 1002, process 1000 includes detecting lumen identifier element 118 associated with a lumen in one or more images. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may detect lumen identifier element 118 associated with lumen 102a in one or more images.

[0164] 10, in step 1004, process 1000 includes determining lumen information associated with the lumen based on the detected lumen identifier element 118. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may determine lumen information associated with lumen 102a based on the detected lumen identifier element 118. As an example, the lumen information may include a unique identifier for lumen 102a.

[0165] 10 , in step 1006, process 1000 includes detecting, in the one or more images, one or more washing syringe identifier elements 118 associated with the one or more washing syringes. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may detect, in the one or more images, one or more washing syringe identifier elements 118 associated with the one or more washing syringes. As an example, the one or more images may include a series of images including one or more washing syringes connected to lumen 102a during a washing procedure.

[0166] 10 , in step 1008, process 1000 includes determining washing syringe information associated with one or more washing syringes based on the one or more detected washing syringe identifier elements 118. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may determine washing syringe information associated with one or more washing syringes based on the one or more detected washing syringe identifier elements 118. As an example, the washing syringe information may include the number of washing syringes used for the washing procedure (e.g., the number of washing syringes connected to lumen 102a during the washing procedure, etc.).

[0167] 10 , in step 1001, process 1000 includes determining, based on the lumen information and the cleaning syringe information, that a cleaning procedure has been performed on a lumen, the number of cleaning syringes used for the cleaning procedure, and / or the type of cleaning procedure performed (e.g., continuous cleaning, partial cleaning, pulsed cleaning, etc.). For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may determine, based on the lumen information and the cleaning syringe information, that a cleaning procedure has been performed on lumen 102a, the number of cleaning syringes used for the cleaning procedure, and / or the type of cleaning procedure performed (e.g., continuous cleaning, partial cleaning, pulsed cleaning, etc.).

[0168] 10 , in step 1012, process 1000 includes providing an indication that a cleaning procedure has been performed on the lumen and the number of cleaning syringes used for the cleaning procedure. For example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 (and / or computing device 106) may provide an indication that a cleaning procedure has been performed on lumen 102a and the number of cleaning syringes used for the cleaning procedure. As an example, processor 146 of sensor assembly 104 may control wireless communication circuit 148 to communicate the indication to computing device 106.

[0169] While embodiments or aspects have been described in detail for purposes of illustration and description, it should be understood that such detail is for that purpose only, and that the embodiments or aspects are not limited to the disclosed embodiments or aspects, but rather are intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it should be understood that the present disclosure contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment or aspect can be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment or aspect. Indeed, any of these features may be combined in ways not specifically recited in the claims and / or disclosed herein. While each of the dependent claims listed below may depend directly on only one claim, the disclosure of possible implementations includes each dependent claim in combination with every other claim in the claim set.

Claims

1. an image capture device configured to capture one or more images; a user feedback device configured to provide an audio and / or visual output to the user; a mechanical connector configured to connect the sensor assembly to the lumen and / or a syringe configured to be connected to the lumen; a processor coupled to a memory, obtaining the one or more images captured by the image capture device; determining information associated with administering a medication to the patient based on the one or more images; and controlling the user feedback device to provide the audio and / or visual output to the user based on the information.

2. The sensor assembly of claim 1 , wherein the image capture device is configured to automatically capture the one or more images in response to connection of the mechanical connector to the lumen and / or the syringe.

3. 2. The sensor assembly of claim 1, further comprising a housing containing the image capture device, the user feedback device, and the processor, wherein the mechanical connector extends from a sidewall of the housing, a field of view of the image capture device is fixed relative to the housing and / or the mechanical connector, and when the mechanical connector connects the sensor assembly to the lumen and / or the syringe connected to the lumen, the field of view of the image capture device includes the syringe.

4. The sensor assembly of claim 3 , wherein the mechanical connector includes an opening in a sidewall extending from the housing, the opening configured to receive the lumen and / or the barrel of the syringe.

5. The sensor assembly of claim 4 , wherein the image capture device is configured to automatically capture the one or more images in response to the lumen and / or the barrel of the syringe being received in the opening.

6. The sensor assembly of claim 4 , wherein the mechanical connector comprises a rigid deformable clip.

7. The sensor assembly of claim 1 , wherein the mechanical connector comprises a butterfly clip.

8. The sensor assembly of claim 7 , wherein the image capture device is configured to automatically capture the one or more images in response to actuation of the butterfly clip.

9. 2. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the mechanical connector includes arcuate jaws configured to be actuated by one or more buttons, each of the arcuate jaws connected at a first end to a hinge and including an inward-facing surface configured to wrap around the lumen and / or an outer surface of the syringe, the hinge configured to bias second ends of the arcuate jaws together, and the one or more buttons configured to separate the arcuate jaws from one another in response to actuation of the one or more buttons.

10. The sensor assembly of claim 9 , wherein the image capture device is configured to automatically capture the one or more images in response to the actuation of the one or more buttons.

11. At least one of the processors determines, based on the one or more images, the information associated with the drug administration to the patient: detecting a patient identifier element associated with the patient in the one or more images; 10. The sensor assembly of claim 1, configured to: determine patient information associated with the patient based on the detected patient identifier element, the patient information including an indication of a type and / or dosage of a medication to be administered to the patient and / or a unique identifier of a medication delivery lumen to be used to administer the medication to the patient.

12. At least one of the processors determines, based on the one or more images, the information associated with the drug administration to the patient: detecting a syringe identifier element associated with the syringe in the one or more images; 12. The sensor assembly of claim 11, configured to: determine syringe information associated with the syringe based on the detected syringe identifier element, the syringe information including a type and / or dosage of a medication contained in the syringe.

13. At least one of the processors determines, based on the one or more images, the information associated with the drug administration to the patient: determining, based on the patient information and the syringe information, whether the medication contained in the syringe is the correct type and / or correct dosage of the medication to be administered to the patient; and controlling the user feedback device to provide the audio and / or visual output to the user based on whether the medication contained in the syringe contains the correct type and / or the correct dosage of the medication to be administered to the patient.

14. At least one of the processors determines, based on the one or more images, the information associated with the drug administration to the patient: detecting a lumen identifier element associated with the lumen in the one or more images; 14. The sensor assembly of claim 13, configured to: determine lumen information associated with the lumen based on the detected lumen identifier element, the lumen information including a unique identifier for the lumen.

15. At least one of the processors determines, based on the one or more images, the information associated with the drug administration to the patient: determining whether the lumen is the medication delivery lumen to be used to deliver the medication to the patient based on the lumen information and the syringe information; and controlling the user feedback device to provide the audio and / or visual output to the user based on whether the lumen includes the medication delivery lumen to be used to administer the medication to the patient.

16. The one or more images include a series of images including the syringe during the administration of the medication to the patient, and at least one of the processors determines the information associated with the administration of the medication to the patient based on the one or more images: detecting movement of a stopper and / or plunger rod of the syringe in the one or more images; determining, based on the detected movement, at least one of the following administration parameters: patency of the lumen, an average administration rate of the drug, a current administration rate of the drug, a stability index of the current administration rate of the drug, an amount of the drug administered, completion of administration of the drug to the patient, or any combination thereof; and controlling the user feedback device to provide the audio and / or visual output to the user based on the at least one administration parameter.

17. The one or more images include a series of images including one or more irrigation syringes connected to the lumen during a irrigation procedure, and at least one of the processors determines the information associated with the drug administration to the patient based on the one or more images: detecting a lumen identifier element associated with the lumen in the one or more images; determining lumen information associated with the lumen based on the detected lumen identifier element, the lumen information including a unique identifier for the lumen; detecting, in the one or more images, one or more cleaning syringe identifier elements associated with the one or more cleaning syringes; determining washing syringe information associated with the one or more washing syringes based on the one or more detected washing syringe identifier elements, the washing syringe information including a number of washing syringes used for the washing procedure; 2. The sensor assembly of claim 1, configured to determine that the cleaning procedure has been performed on the lumen, the number of cleaning syringes used for the cleaning procedure, and / or the type of cleaning procedure performed based on the lumen information and the cleaning syringe information.

18. further comprising a wireless communication circuit configured to wirelessly communicate with an external computing device; 10. The sensor assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one processor is configured to control the wireless communication circuitry to wirelessly communicate the information associated with the medication delivery to the patient to the external computing device.

19. an external computing device; one or more sensor assemblies, each sensor assembly of the one or more sensor assemblies comprising: an image capture device configured to capture one or more images; a user feedback device configured to provide an audio and / or visual output to the user; a mechanical connector configured to connect the sensor assembly to a lumen and / or a syringe configured to be connected to the lumen; and a wireless communication link configured to facilitate communication between the external computing device and one or more sensor assemblies, The external computing device includes a processor coupled to a memory, and for each of the sensor assemblies: receiving the one or more images captured by the image capture device; determining information associated with administering a medication to the patient based on the one or more images; and controlling, based on the information, via the wireless communication link, the user feedback device of the sensor assembly to provide the audio and / or visual output to the user.

20. capturing one or more images with an image capture device of a sensor assembly, the sensor assembly including a mechanical connector connecting the sensor assembly to a lumen and / or a syringe configured to be connected to the lumen; acquiring, by at least one processor of the sensor assembly, the one or more images captured by the image capture device; determining, by the processor of at least one of the sensor assemblies, information associated with administering a medication to a patient based on the one or more images; and controlling, by the processor of at least one of the sensor assemblies, a user feedback device of the sensor assembly based on the information to provide an audio and / or visual output to the user.

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