System, information processing device, and information processing method

Abstract

To provide a system that can easily and correctly set a flow rate or an administration speed of a chemical liquid in each pump.SOLUTION: A system comprises: a plurality of pumps each capable of administering a chemical liquid to a patient; and a terminal device 60 capable of being communicated with the plurality of pumps, and storing a prescription order including the identification information of an administration chemical liquid to be administered to a patient, and a set value of a flow rate of the administration chemical liquid or a set value of an administration speed. The terminal device 60 associates the prescription order with an infusion pump 70A assigned among the plurality of pumps, and transmits the prescription order to the infusion pump 70A.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a system, an information processing apparatus, and a method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as medical devices, various medical pumps for administering a drug solution to a patient are known.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-531146 (Patent Document 1) discloses a system for programming a medical device in order to administer a drug to a patient. The system includes a medical device, a scanner that can be coupled to a point-of-care (POC) system, and a drug management unit (MMU). A computer in the POC system can directly program the medical device with the permission of the MMU after a complete "five correct" check (check that the correct drug is administered to the correct patient at the correct dose or rate through the correct device passage or route when correct).

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-518265 (Patent Document 2) discloses a method for setting a plurality of infusion pumps according to a function set. The method includes implementing a plurality of infusion pumps each set to administer a drug to a patient, implementing a drug library including at least one function set defining a drug set, receiving input data related to one of the at least one function set, obtaining a specific drug set from the drug library corresponding to the input data, and programming the plurality of infusion pumps according to the drug set and infusing the patient with the plurality of infusion pumps. In Patent Document 2, the aim is to perform the complex and / or boring programming of the infusion pumps rather simply and efficiently.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

[0006] Pumps need to store the flow rate or administration rate settings for the medication they contain. Manually entering these settings into the pumps is time-consuming and prone to errors. Especially when multiple pumps are used, each containing a different medication, healthcare professionals must verify which medication is in which pump and then manually enter the appropriate settings for each pump. Therefore, as the number of pumps increases, the process becomes more time-consuming and the likelihood of errors increases.

[0007] Patent documents 1 and 2 disclose programming for medical devices and infusion pumps. However, patent documents 1 and 2 do not disclose specific methods for correctly setting the flow rate or administration rate of the drug solution to be set in each pump according to the physician's prescription.

[0008] This disclosure has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to provide a system, information processing device, and method that can easily and correctly set the flow rate or administration rate of the drug solution in each pump. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In accordance with certain aspects of this disclosure, the system comprises a plurality of pumps, each capable of administering a drug solution to a patient, and an information processing device that can communicate with each of the plurality of pumps and stores prescription orders including identification information of the drug solution to be administered to the patient and a set value for the flow rate or administration rate of the drug solution. The information processing device associates the prescription order with a designated pump among the plurality of pumps and transmits the prescription order to the designated pump.

[0010] According to other aspects of this disclosure, the information processing device comprises a processor, a communication interface for communicating with each of a plurality of pumps, each capable of administering a drug solution to a patient, and a memory storing prescription orders including identification information of the drug solution to be administered to the patient and a set value for the flow rate or administration rate of the drug solution. The processor associates the prescription order with a designated pump from the plurality of pumps. The processor transmits the prescription order to the designated pump via the communication interface.

[0011] A method for an information processing device that communicates with each of a plurality of pumps, each capable of administering a drug solution to a patient, comprising the steps of: associating a prescription order with a designated pump among the plurality of pumps; and transmitting the prescription order to the designated pump, including identification information of a drug solution to be administered to a patient and a set value for the flow rate or administration rate of the drug solution. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the above disclosure, it becomes possible to easily and accurately set the flow rate or administration rate of the drug solution in the pump. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] This diagram shows the schematic configuration of the network system. [Figure 2] This is a diagram illustrating the overview of communication in a communication system. [Figure 3] This diagram shows the general structure of the drug library data. [Figure 4] This is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of prescription list data. [Figure 5] This is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a server. [Figure 6] This is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a terminal device. [Figure 7] This is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a pump. [Figure 8] This is a diagram showing an example of the operation panel of a pump. [Figure 9] This is a sequence diagram for explaining the flow of processing executed in a communication system. [Figure 10] This is a sequence diagram for explaining a part of the processing in FIG. 9 in detail. [Figure 11] This is a diagram showing an example of the user interface of a terminal device related to the processing in FIG. 10. [Figure 12] This is a diagram for explaining the state of a pump related to the processing in FIG. 10. [Figure 13] This is a sequence diagram for explaining the processing in a rack system. [Figure 14] This is a diagram for explaining the state of a syringe pump related to the processing in FIG. 13. [Figure 15] This is a diagram showing an example of the user interface of a terminal device related to the processing in FIG. 13.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0014] Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same members are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated. Further, in the embodiments described below, when referring to the number, amount, etc., unless otherwise specified, the scope of the present invention is not necessarily limited to the number, amount, etc.

[0015] [Embodiment 1] Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same members are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated. Further, in the embodiments described below, when referring to the number, amount, etc., unless otherwise specified, the scope of the present invention is not necessarily limited to the number, amount, etc.

[0016] <A. System Configuration> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a network system 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 1, the network system 1 includes a terminal device 10, a server 20 for recording an electronic medical record, a server 30 of a pharmacy department, a server 40 of a department different from the pharmacy department, and a communication system 2. The communication system 2 includes a server 50 and a rack system (system) 3. The rack system 3 has a terminal device (information processing device) 60, a plurality of infusion pumps 70A and 70B, and a plurality of syringe pumps 70C, 70D, and 70E. The rack system 3 is operated by a nurse 9 or a doctor.

[0018] The terminal device 10 is typically connected to the server 20 communicably by wire. The server 20 is typically connected to the terminal device 10 and the server 30 communicably by wire. The server 30 is typically connected to the server 20 and the server 50 communicably by wire.

[0019] The server 50 is typically connected to the server 30 and the server 40 communicably by wire. The server 50 is typically further connected to the terminal device 60 of the rack system 3 communicably by wireless.

[0020] Terminal device 10 is typically used by physicians. Terminal device 10 accepts input of information about one or more medications prescribed to each patient. Hereinafter, the information entered for a single patient using terminal device 10 (information about one or more prescribed medications) will also be referred to as "prescription list data" for convenience. In other words, terminal device 10 accepts prescription list data input for each patient. Terminal device 10 transmits the entered prescription list data to server 20. The specific structure of the prescription list data will be described later (Figure 4).

[0021] Server 20 receives prescription list data from terminal device 10. Server 20 records the contents of the received prescription list data in the patient's electronic medical record.

[0022] Server 30 has drug library data (drug solution data) stored in advance. Server 30 sends drug library data to Server 50. When the drug library is updated in Server 30, Server 30 sends update data to Server 50 to update Server 50's drug library. As update data, Server 30 may send the updated drug library data itself, or it may send only the data of the updated parts.

[0023] Server 30 retrieves prescription list data for a designated patient from Server 20 based on input from a pharmacist or other user. Server 30 then transmits prescription list data for a patient who is about to begin treatment (hereinafter also referred to as the "target patient") to Server 50.

[0024] Through the above process, server 50 stores the prescription list data for the target patient and the latest drug library data. Server 50 also retrieves various other data from server 40. For example, server 50 retrieves data related to the target patient's anesthesia from server 40.

[0025] In this example, syringes 90 are set in syringe pumps 70C and 70E. Syringe 90 includes a barrel 91 and a plunger rod 92. The plunger rod 92 has a flange 921. Syringe pumps 70C, 70D, and 70E are equipped with a drive unit 74 having a pressing surface 741. Each of the infusion pumps 70A and 70B and syringe pumps 70C, 70D, and 70E has displays 772 and 773.

[0026] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the communication overview in communication system 2 shown in Figure 1.

[0027] As shown in Figure 2, in this example, the server 50 communicates with the terminal device 60 wirelessly. Typically, the server 50 communicates with the terminal device 60 via a wireless LAN (Local Area Network).

[0028] In this example, terminal device 60 communicates wirelessly with infusion pumps 70A and 70B and syringe pumps 70C, 70D, and 70E. More specifically, terminal device 60 communicates with infusion pumps 70A and 70B and syringe pumps 70C, 70D, and 70E via wireless LAN or NFC (Near Field Communication). In the following, any one of the infusion pumps 70A and 70B and syringe pumps 70C, 70D, and 70E (medical pump) will also be referred to as "pump 70".

[0029] Server 50 transmits the drug library data and the target patient's prescription list data, respectively, acquired from Server 20, to Terminal Device 60. As a result, the drug library data and the target patient's prescription list data are stored in Terminal Device 60 of Rack System 3.

[0030] When the drug library data on server 50 is updated, the drug library data on terminal device 60 is also updated. As a result, the same drug library data is stored on server 20 (Figure 1), server 50, and terminal device 60. The drug library data on server 20 is the master data.

[0031] <B.データ> Figure 3 shows the schematic structure of the drug library data shown in Figure 1.

[0032] As shown in Figure 3, the drug library data D3 stores at least the flow rate (mL / h) threshold, the dose threshold (mL) threshold, and the administration rate threshold (μg / kg / min), all associated with the drug identification information. The dose is also referred to as the "planned dose."

[0033] Drug identification information includes, for example, the drug number and drug name (drug solution name). Flow rate thresholds include the upper and lower limits of the flow rate. Dosage thresholds include the upper and lower limits of the dosage. Administration rate thresholds include the upper and lower limits of the administration rate. Note that drug library data D3 does not necessarily need to store all of the upper and lower limits for each drug solution.

[0034] As described above, this drug library data D3 is stored in server 20, server 50, and terminal device 60. As described above, when the drug library data D3 in server 20 is updated, the drug library data D3 in server 50 and the drug library data D3 in terminal device 60 are also updated.

[0035] Figure 4 is a diagram showing the schematic structure of the prescription list data shown in Figure 1.

[0036] As shown in Figure 4, prescription list data D41 includes a patient ID to identify the patient and one or more prescription orders #1, #2, #3…

[0037] In this example, each prescription order #1, #2, #3, etc. includes drug identification information, a flow rate setting, and a dosage setting. The flow rate setting and dosage setting are values ​​specified by the physician. These settings are values ​​entered in terminal device 10. Each prescription order #1, #2, #3, etc. may also include a setting for the administration rate.

[0038] Examples of prescription orders include "administer 500 mL of physiological saline at 20 mL / h". In this case, the prescription order includes "physiological saline" as drug identification information, "20 mL / h" as the set value of the flow rate, and "500 mL" as the set value of the dosage.

[0039] The pharmacy department checks whether each of the set value of the flow rate (or the set value of the administration rate) and the set value of the dosage is within a predetermined range. If the set value is inappropriate, the pharmacy department asks the responsible physician (the physician who created the prescription list data) to confirm the numerical value and urges the responsible physician to correct the set value. Therefore, the set value of the flow rate (or the set value of the administration rate) and the set value of the dosage transmitted to the server 50 and the terminal device 60 are usually within the above-mentioned predetermined range.

[0040] Specifically, the above-mentioned predetermined range is defined by at least one of a lower limit value and an upper limit value. In the drug library data D3 (see FIG. 3), such upper limit values and lower limit values are recorded for each drug solution.

[0041] <C. Device Configuration> The specific configurations of the server 50, the terminal device 60, and the pump 70 that constitute the communication system 2 (see FIG. 1) will be described.

[0042] (c1. Server) FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the server 50.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 5, the server 50 includes a control unit 51, a communication IF (Interface) 52, and a clock 53. The control unit 51 includes a processor 511 and a memory 512. The processor 511, the memory 5​​​Memory 512 consists of storage media such as RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), SSD (Solid State Drive), and HDD (Hard Disk Drive). Memory 512 stores prescription list data D41, D42, D43, D44, etc., created for each target patient.

[0045] Prescription list data D41 is the data for patient ID "0001". Similarly, prescription list data D42 is the data for patient ID "0002", for example. Prescription list data D43 is the data for patient ID "0003", for example.

[0046] Communication IF52 is an interface for communication between servers 30, 40 and terminal device 60. Through communication IF52, server 50 can acquire drug library data D3, prescription list data D41, etc.

[0047] Clock 53 measures the time. The measured time information is sent to control unit 51.

[0048] The control unit 51 controls the overall operation of the server 50. Specifically, the processor 511 executes an operating system (not shown) and various application programs (not shown) stored in the memory 512, thereby enabling the server 50 to perform various operations.

[0049] (c2. Terminal device) Figure 6 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the terminal device 60.

[0050] As shown in Figure 6, the terminal device 60 comprises a control unit 61, a touchscreen 62, a communication interface 63, and a clock 64. The control unit 61 includes a processor 611 and memory 612. The touchscreen 62 includes a touch panel 621 and a display 622. The touch panel 621 is mounted on the display 622. The processor 611, memory 612, communication interface 63, and clock 64 are typically mounted on a motherboard (not shown).

[0051] Memory 612 consists of storage media such as RAM, ROM, and flash memory. Memory 612 stores prescription list data D43 for one target patient (in this example, the patient with patient ID "0003"). Specifically, because Nurse 9 performed an operation on terminal device 60 to retrieve prescription list data D43 for patient with patient ID "0003" from server 50, prescription list data D43 is stored in memory 612 of terminal device 60.

[0052] The terminal device 60 does not need to acquire the prescription list data D43 itself; it may acquire prescription order #1 and prescription order #2 separately, associated with the patient ID. At a minimum, the terminal device 60 only needs to be able to acquire prescription order #1 and prescription order #2 from the server 50. There are no particular limitations on the user operations during acquisition. In the following explanation, we will use the case where the terminal device 60 acquires prescription order #1 and prescription order #2 individually as an example.

[0053] Communication IF63 is an interface for communication between the server 50 and multiple pumps 70. Through communication IF63, the terminal device 60 can obtain drug library data D3 and prescription list data D43.

[0054] The clock 64 keeps time. The time information is sent to the control unit 61.

[0055] The touchscreen 62 accepts user input and displays various information. The display 622 displays various screens based on the output from the processor 611. When the touch panel 621 receives user input (typically a touch operation by a nurse 9) while the screen is displayed, it sends a signal based on that input to the processor 611.

[0056] The control unit 61 controls the overall operation of the terminal device 60. Specifically, the processor 611 executes an operating system (not shown) and various application programs (not shown) stored in the memory 612, thereby causing the terminal device 60 to perform various operations.

[0057] (c3. Pump) Figure 7 shows an example of the hardware configuration of the pump 70.

[0058] As shown in Figure 7, the system comprises a control unit 71, a communication interface 72, a clock 73, a drive unit 74, a speaker 75, an alarm lamp 76, and an operation panel 77. The control unit 71 includes a processor 711 and a memory 712. The operation panel 77 includes operation buttons 771 and displays 772 and 773. The processor 711, memory 712, communication interface 72, and clock 73 are typically mounted on a motherboard (not shown).

[0059] Memory 712 is composed of storage media such as RAM, ROM, and flash memory. Memory 712 stores prescription order #1 (see Figure 6) included in the prescription list data D43 for one target patient (in this example, the patient with patient ID "0003"). Specifically, because Nurse 9 performed the operation of sending prescription order #1 from prescription list data D43 to pump 70 using terminal device 60, prescription order #1 from prescription list data D43 is stored in the memory 712 of pump 70.

[0060] Furthermore, memory 712 stores the flow rate threshold and the dosage threshold of the drug solution (hereinafter also referred to as "administered drug solution") described in prescription order #1 of prescription list data D43. As mentioned above, one prescription order contains information for one drug solution.

[0061] In more detail, based on the operation performed by Nurse 9 on the terminal device 60 to send prescription order #1 of prescription list data D43 to the pump 70, the threshold values ​​for the flow rate and the dose of the administered drug described in prescription order #1 are transmitted from the terminal device 60 to the pump 70 and stored in memory 712.

[0062] The control unit 71 controls the overall operation of the pump 70. Specifically, the processor 711 executes an operating system (not shown) and various application programs (not shown) stored in the memory 712, causing the pump 70 to perform various operations.

[0063] Communication IF72 is an interface for communicating with the terminal device 60. Through communication IF72, the pump 70 can obtain prescription order #1, the flow rate threshold, and the dosage threshold.

[0064] Clock 73 measures the time. The measured time information is sent to control unit 71.

[0065] The drive unit 74 is a mechanism for administering the drug solution set in the pump 70 to the patient. The drive unit 74 operates according to commands from the control unit 71. If the pump 70 is a syringe pump, the drive unit 74 is a mechanism for moving the plunger rod 92 of the syringe 90 (see Figure 1) within the barrel 91 of the syringe 90. Specifically, the drive unit 74 moves the plunger rod 92 toward the barrel 91 by pressing the flange 921 with the pressing surface 741. This allows the drug solution to be administered to the patient.

[0066] Speaker 75 makes a predetermined announcement (voice announcement) in response to a command from control unit 71.

[0067] The alarm lamp 76 provides a predetermined notification (notification by illumination) in response to a command from the control unit 71. The alarm lamp 76 is also called an indicator.

[0068] The control panel 77 receives operations from the nurse 9 and displays various information. Specifically, the operation buttons 771 receive operations from the nurse 9. The operation buttons 771 typically include multiple buttons. Instructions corresponding to the received operations are sent from the control panel 77 to the control unit 71.

[0069] Displays 772 and 773 (see Figure 1) display various screens based on the output from the processor 711. Display 772 displays, for example, the administration rate. Display 773 displays, for example, information such as the flow rate.

[0070] Figure 8 shows an example of the control panel 77 of the pump 70.

[0071] As shown in Figure 8, the control panel 77 includes, as specific examples of the control buttons 771 described above, a power button 771A, menu buttons 771B and 771C, a cumulative amount clear button 771D, flow rate setting buttons 771E and 771F, a bolus button 771G, a start button 771H, and a stop or mute button 771I. The control panel 77 also includes a display 772 and a display 773, as described above.

[0072] The pump 70 is equipped with two alarm lamps 76 on either side of the control panel 77. However, the position of the alarm lamps 76 is not limited to these positions; any position that allows the pump user to see that they are emitting light is acceptable.

[0073] The power button 771A is a button for turning on and off the power of the pump 70. The menu button 771B is a button for displaying various menus on the display 772. The menu button 771C is a button for displaying various menus on the display 773.

[0074] The integrated quantity clear button 771D is a button for erasing data (log data) of the integrated value of the administered amount of the administered chemical solution from the memory of the pump. The flow rate setting button 771E is a button for increasing the set value of the flow rate of the chemical solution. The flow rate setting button 771F is a button for decreasing the set value of the flow rate of the chemical solution. It is a button for causing the pump 70 to perform a bolus administration.

[0075] The start button 771H is a button for starting the administration of the chemical solution by the pump. When the start button 771H is pressed, the drive unit 74 (Fig. 7) operates. The stop or mute button 771I is a button for stopping the administration of the chemical solution or for making the speaker 75 not emit sound. Which function is executed by pressing the stop or mute button 771I is based on the state of the pump 70.

[0076] A touch panel may be installed on the displays 772 and 773. That is, the operation panel 77 may include a touch screen having the display 772 and a touch panel, and a touch screen having the display 773 and a touch panel. According to such a configuration, it becomes possible to select various items (items within the menu) displayed on the displays 772 and 773 by a touch operation. Further, the operation panel 77 may separately include physical buttons for selecting items within the menu.

[0077] <D. Flow of processing> For the sake of explanation, the following explanation will focus on prescription list data D43 for patient ID "0003". Furthermore, for the sake of explanation, the explanation will focus on infusion pumps 70A and 70B out of the five pumps 70. Prescription list data D43 and infusion pumps 70A and 70B are examples only and are not exhaustive.

[0078] Furthermore, in the following example, for the sake of simplifying the explanation, we will focus on the flow rate threshold among the flow rate threshold, dose threshold, and administration rate threshold shown in Figure 3. Note that the terminal device 60 can also perform similar processing for the lower limit of the flow rate, the dose threshold, and the administration rate threshold.

[0079] Figure 9 is a sequence diagram illustrating the flow of processing performed in communication system 2.

[0080] As shown in Figure 9, in sequence SQ1, server 50 transmits prescription order #1, which is included in prescription list data D43, to terminal device 60. Prescription order #1 includes, as described above, at least drug identification information and flow rate setting values ​​(values ​​set by the physician).

[0081] In sequence SQ2, terminal device 60 reads the threshold flow rate of drug solution #1, as described in the received prescription order #1, from memory 612. Specifically, terminal device 60 reads the threshold flow rate of drug solution #1 from the drug library data D3 (see Figure 6) stored in memory 612.

[0082] In sequence SQ3, terminal device 60 associates prescription order #1 with infusion pump 70A based on the input operation of nurse 9. That is, terminal device 60 links prescription order #1 with infusion pump 70A. In sequence SQ4, terminal device 60 transmits prescription order #1 and the flow rate threshold of drug solution #1 to infusion pump 70A associated with prescription order #1, based on the input operation of nurse 9.

[0083] Based on the above, prescription order #1 and the flow rate threshold for drug solution #1 specified in prescription order #1 are set in the infusion pump 70A. Unless the flow rate setting for drug solution #1 is changed by nurse 9 or the like, the infusion pump 70A will start administering drug solution #1 to the patient based on the flow rate setting when the start button is pressed.

[0084] In sequence SQ5, server 50 transmits prescription order #2, which is included in prescription list data D43, to terminal device 60. Prescription order #2 includes at least drug identification information and flow rate settings, as described above.

[0085] In sequence SQ6, terminal device 60 reads the threshold flow rate of drug solution #2, as described in the received prescription order #2, from memory 612. Specifically, terminal device 60 reads the threshold flow rate of drug solution #2 from drug library data D3 stored in memory 612.

[0086] In sequence SQ7, terminal device 60 associates prescription order #2 with infusion pump 70B based on the input operation of nurse 9. That is, terminal device 60 links prescription order #2 with infusion pump 70B. In sequence SQ8, terminal device 60 transmits prescription order #2 and the flow rate threshold of drug solution #2 to infusion pump 70B associated with prescription order #2, based on the input operation of nurse 9.

[0087] Based on the above, prescription order #2 and the flow rate threshold for drug solution #2 specified in prescription order #2 are set in the infusion pump 70B. Unless the flow rate setting for drug solution #2 is changed by nurse 9 or the like, the infusion pump 70B will start administering drug solution #2 to the patient based on the flow rate setting for drug solution #2, triggered by pressing the start button.

[0088] In summary, the rack system 3 is as follows: The rack system 3 comprises a pump 70 (for example, an infusion pump 70A) capable of administering drug solutions to a patient, and a terminal device 60 that can communicate with the pump 70 and stores drug library data D3 in which a flow rate threshold is associated with the identification information of each of the multiple drug solutions.

[0089] The terminal device 60 obtains a prescription order (e.g., prescription order #1) from the server 50, which is an external device of the rack system 3, which includes identification information of the drug solution to be administered to a patient (e.g., patient with patient ID "0003") from among the multiple drug solutions (e.g., drug solution #1) and the set value of the flow rate of the drug solution set for the patient. The terminal device 60 obtains the threshold value of the flow rate of the drug solution from the drug library data D3 (specifically, reads the threshold value). The terminal device 60 transmits the prescription order and the threshold value of the flow rate of the drug solution to the pump 70.

[0090] With this configuration, it becomes unnecessary to send the drug library data D3 to each pump 70. Therefore, the drug solution data update process in each pump 70 is eliminated. Furthermore, each pump 70 can obtain not only the prescription order but also the threshold flow rate of the drug solution to be administered to the pump 70.

[0091] Figure 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating some details of the process shown in Figure 9. More specifically, Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the details of the sequences SQ1 to SQ4 in Figure 9. Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of the user interface of the terminal device 60 related to the process shown in Figure 10. Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the state of the infusion pump 70A related to the process shown in Figure 10.

[0092] As shown in Figure 10, in sequence SQ11, the terminal device 60 displays a pump selection screen on the display 622, allowing the user (doctor or nurse) to select (specify) one pump 70 from a plurality of pumps 70. In sequence SQ12, the terminal device 60 accepts a user operation to specify the pump 70 to which processing order #1 will be sent.

[0093] For details, as shown in Figure 11, the terminal device 60 accepts touch operations from the user's finger 999 (or stylus pen) to specify the destination pump 70. In this example, the terminal device 60 has received an operation to specify the infusion pump 70A on the pump selection screen 65.

[0094] Returning to Figure 10, when the infusion pump 70A is specified, in sequence SQ13, the terminal device 60 sends a predetermined signal (notification signal) to the infusion pump 70A.

[0095] In sequence SQ14, terminal device 60, based on user input, uses a camera (not shown) mounted on terminal device 60 to scan the barcode on the label attached to drug #1 (specifically, the container of drug #1). Drug #1 is pre-labeled to identify the drug and the patient when it is dispensed from the pharmacy department.

[0096] In sequence SQ15, terminal device 60 accesses server 50 based on the information obtained from the scan. In sequence SQ16, server 50 sends prescription order #1 for drug #1 to terminal device 60 based on the content of the data received from terminal device 60. In this example, prescription order #1 is one of several prescription orders for patient ID "0003". In sequence SQ17, terminal device 60 reads the flow rate threshold for drug solution #1 described in prescription order #1 from memory 612 (specifically, drug library data D3).

[0097] When the infusion pump 70A receives the notification signal (sequence SQ13) from the terminal device 60, it starts a predetermined notification in sequence SQ20. Typically, as shown in Figure 12, the infusion pump 70A illuminates the alarm lamp 76. For example, the infusion pump 70A flashes the alarm lamp 76 in a predetermined pattern. The infusion pump 70A may also output a predetermined audio from the speaker 75 along with illuminating the alarm lamp 76.

[0098] Based on the user setting the drug solution (in this case, drug solution #1) into the infusion pump 70A, the infusion pump 70A detects the setting of the drug solution in sequence SQ21. Each pump 70 is equipped with a sensor (not shown) for detecting that the drug solution has been set. Once the infusion pump 70A detects the setting of the drug solution, it terminates its notification in sequence SQ22. In sequence SQ23, the infusion pump 70A transmits a predetermined signal (notification signal) to the terminal device 60.

[0099] After sequence SQ17, terminal device 60 receives a notification signal from infusion pump 70A and, in sequence SQ18, associates prescription order #1 with infusion pump 70A. That is, terminal device 60 links prescription order #1 with infusion pump 70A. In sequence SQ19, terminal device 60 transmits prescription order #1 and the set value of the flow rate of drug solution #1 of prescription order #1 to infusion pump 70A.

[0100] In sequences SQ5 to SQ8 in Figure 9, the processing described in detail in Figure 10 is performed. As a result, the terminal device 60 associates prescription order #2 with the infusion pump 70B and transmits prescription order #2 and the set flow rate of drug solution #2 of prescription order #2 to the infusion pump 70B.

[0101] Although the above explanation focused on infusion pumps 70A and 70B, a similar association is made for syringe pumps 70C, 70D, and 70E, and prescription orders and flow rate thresholds are transmitted to syringe pumps 70C, 70D, and 70E.

[0102] In this example, the terminal device 60 displays a list (not shown) showing multiple prescription orders. When the barcode on the label attached to the drug container is scanned by the camera (barcode scanner) mounted on the terminal device 60, the terminal device 60 automatically selects one of the prescription orders from the list based on the scan result.

[0103] Furthermore, prescription orders can be selected manually without using a camera. The terminal device 60 may accept prescription order selection operations using a list. That is, the rack system 3 may be configured so that the user can select one prescription order from a list through user operation (typically, touch operation).

[0104] The rack system 3 included in network system 1 can be summarized as follows:

[0105] (1) The rack system 3 comprises a plurality of pumps 70, each capable of administering a drug solution to a patient, and a terminal device 60 that can communicate with each of the plurality of pumps 70 and stores prescription orders including identification information (typically, a name) of the drug solution to be administered to the patient and a set value for the flow rate of the drug solution. The terminal device 60 associates the prescription order with a designated pump 70 from among the plurality of pumps 70 (in the example in Figure 10, infusion pump 70A) and transmits the prescription order to the designated pump 70 (sequences SQ18, SQ19).

[0106] This configuration allows for easy and accurate setting of the drug flow rate in the designated pump 70. Furthermore, the terminal device 60 can manage which prescription order is associated with which pump 70.

[0107] (2) The terminal device 60 displays a pump selection screen 65 for specifying the pump to send prescription orders from among the multiple pumps 70 (sequence SQ11). With the pump selection screen 65 displayed, the terminal device 60 accepts an operation to specify the pump 70 to send prescription orders (sequence SQ12). With this configuration, the user of the rack system 3 can easily specify the pump to send prescription orders.

[0108] (3) When the terminal device 60 receives an operation to specify a pump 70 to which a prescription order will be sent, it sends a predetermined signal (first signal) to the specified pump (sequence SQ13). Based on the receipt of the first signal, the specified pump 70 starts a predetermined notification (sequence SQ20).

[0109] With this configuration, the user can easily confirm which pump 70 they have selected. In particular, since the selected pump 70 provides notification, if the user has unknowingly selected a pump 70 that they did not intend to use, the user can easily notice the mistake in selecting the wrong pump 70.

[0110] (4) The designated pump 70 transmits a predetermined signal (second signal) to the terminal device 60 (sequence SQ23) on the condition that the drug solution is set in the designated pump 70. Based on the receipt of the second signal, the terminal device 60 transmits a prescription order to the designated pump 70 (sequence SQ19).

[0111] With this configuration, the terminal device 60 can send a prescription order to the designated pump 70 only if the drug solution has been set in the designated pump 70. Therefore, prescription orders will not be sent to pumps 70 that do not have the drug solution set in them.

[0112] (5) The designated pump 70 terminates notification once the drug solution has been set in the designated pump 70 (sequence SQ21, SQ22). With this configuration, the user does not need to manually terminate the notification and can recognize that the drug solution has been set.

[0113] (6) The terminal device 60 further transmits threshold values ​​(upper and lower limits) for the flow rate of the administered drug solution to the designated pump 70. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the flow rate setting in the pump 70 from being changed to a value that does not fall within the range defined by the threshold values. [Embodiment 2] The rack system 3 according to this embodiment will now be described. In Embodiment 1, the terminal device 60 designated the pump 70 to which prescription orders were transmitted. In this embodiment, a configuration will be described in which the pump 70 is designated as the destination for sending prescription orders by setting the drug solution in the pump 70.

[0114] The following describes an example where syringe pump 70C is selected from among several pumps 70. Specifically, we will explain the process of sending prescription order #1, which is included in prescription list data D43 (Figure 6) for patient ID "0003", to syringe pump 70C.

[0115] Figure 13 is a sequence diagram illustrating the process in rack system 3. Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating the state of syringe pump 70C related to the process in Figure 13. Figure 15 is a diagram showing an example of the user interface of terminal device 60 related to the process in Figure 13.

[0116] As shown in Figure 13, in sequences SQ101 to SQ104, the same processing as in sequences SQ14 to SQ17 in Figure 10 is performed. Specifically, in sequence SQ101, terminal device 60 scans the barcode on the label attached to drug #1 using a camera mounted on terminal device 60, based on user operation. In sequence SQ102, terminal device 60 accesses server 50 based on the information obtained from the scan. In sequence SQ103, server 50 sends prescription order #1 for drug #1 to terminal device 60 based on the content of the data received from terminal device 60. In sequence SQ104, terminal device 60 reads the threshold flow rate of drug solution #1 described in prescription order #1 from memory 612.

[0117] Based on the user starting to load the drug solution (in this case, drug solution #1) into the syringe pump 70C, the syringe pump 70C detects the start of the drug solution loading into the syringe pump 70C in sequence SQ110. Each pump, including the syringe pump 70C, is equipped with a sensor to detect when the operation of loading the drug solution into the pump 70 has started.

[0118] In sequence SQ111, the syringe pump 70C initiates a predetermined notification. Typically, as shown in Figure 14, the syringe pump 70C illuminates the alarm lamp 76. For example, the syringe pump 70C flashes the alarm lamp 76 in a predetermined pattern. Along with illuminating the alarm lamp 76, the syringe pump 70C may also output a predetermined audio signal from the speaker 75. In sequence SQ112, the syringe pump 70C transmits a predetermined signal (notification signal) to the terminal device 60.

[0119] When terminal device 60 receives the notification signal from syringe pump 70C, it starts broadcasting in sequence SQ105 to identify the pump 70 (in this example, syringe pump 70C) that detected the start of the drug solution (in this case, drug solution #1) setting. Typically, as shown in Figure 15, terminal device 60 displays the display field for syringe pump 70C in a different correspondence to the display fields of other pumps 70 on the screen showing a list of pumps 70. For example, terminal device 60 displays the display field for syringe pump 70C in a different correspondence to the display fields of other pumps 70 by making it blink. Alternatively, terminal device 60 displays the display field for syringe pump 70C in a different color than the default color to make it a different correspondence to the display fields of other pumps 70.

[0120] In sequence SQ113, the syringe pump 70C detects the completion of the drug solution loading into the syringe pump 70C based on the fact that the user has finished loading the drug solution into the syringe pump 70C.

[0121] When the syringe pump 70C detects that the drug solution has been set, it terminates the notification in sequence SQ114. Furthermore, in sequence SQ115, the syringe pump 70C transmits a predetermined signal (notification signal) to the terminal device 60.

[0122] After sequence SQ105, when terminal device 60 receives a notification signal from syringe pump 70C, it terminates the notification in sequence SQ106. In sequence SQ107, terminal device 60 associates prescription order #1 with syringe pump 70C. That is, terminal device 60 links prescription order #1 with syringe pump 70C. In sequence SQ108, terminal device 60 transmits prescription order #1 and the set value of the flow rate of drug solution #1 of prescription order #1 to syringe pump 70C.

[0123] The start and completion of setting the medication into syringe pumps 70C, 70D, and 70E are detected based on the position of the syringe retainer 78 shown in Figure 12. Specifically, when the syringe retainer 78 is pulled out from the position shown in Figure 12 (storage position) toward the front (towards nurse 9) and reaches a predetermined first position, syringe pumps 70C, 70D, and 70E determine that the setting of medication into each syringe pump 70C, 70D, and 70E has started. Subsequently, when it is pushed back from the first position toward the storage position and reaches a predetermined second position (a position between the storage position and the first position), syringe pumps 70C, 70D, and 70E determine that the setting of medication into each syringe pump 70C, 70D, and 70E is complete.

[0124] Furthermore, the start and completion of setting the medication solution to the infusion pumps 70A and 70B are detected by the opening and closing of the door 79 shown in Figure 12. Specifically, based on the door 79 changing from a closed state to an open state, the infusion pumps 70A and 70B determine that the setting of the medication solution to each infusion pump 70A and 70B has started. Subsequently, based on the door 79 closing, the infusion pumps 70A and 70B determine that the setting of the medication solution to each infusion pump 70A and 70B is complete.

[0125] The rack system 3 of this embodiment can be summarized as follows:

[0126] (1) The rack system 3 comprises a plurality of pumps 70, each capable of administering drug solution to a patient, and a terminal device 60 that can communicate with each of the plurality of pumps 70 and stores prescription orders including identification information of the drug solution to be administered to the patient and a set value for the flow rate of the drug solution. The terminal device 60 associates the prescription order with a designated pump 70 (in this example, syringe pump 70C) from among the plurality of pumps 70 and transmits the prescription order to the designated pump 70 (sequences SQ107, SQ108).

[0127] This configuration allows for easy and accurate setting of the drug flow rate in the designated pump 70. Furthermore, the terminal device 60 can manage which prescription order is associated with which pump 70.

[0128] (2) Based on the fact that the drug solution has been set in one of the multiple pumps 70 (sequence SQ113), the terminal device 60 associates the prescription order with the pump 70 that has the drug solution set in it as the designated pump 70, and transmits the prescription order to the pump 70 that has the drug solution set in it. With this configuration, the user of the rack system 3 can easily specify the pump to which the prescription order will be sent.

[0129] (3) Each of the multiple pumps 70 is capable of detecting the start of the drug administration solution setting. A pump 70 that detects the start of the setting begins to make a predetermined notification (sequence SQ111). With this configuration, the user can easily confirm which pump has been selected.

[0130] (4) When pump 70 detects the start of the set, it transmits a predetermined signal to terminal device 60. Upon receiving the predetermined signal, terminal device 60 provides notification identifying the pump 70 that detected the start of the set (sequence SQ105). With this configuration, the user can easily confirm which pump 70 has been selected on terminal device 60.

[0131] (5) Each of the multiple pumps 70 is capable of detecting the completion of setting the drug solution. When a pump 70 detects the start of setting, it terminates a predetermined notification when it detects the completion of setting the drug solution (sequence SQ113, SQ114). With this configuration, the user does not need to manually terminate the notification and can recognize that the setting of the drug solution has been completed.

[0132] <Variation> In Figures 9, 10, and 13, the case where the upper and lower limits of the flow rate are transmitted to the pump 70 is used as an example for explanation. However, the terminal device 60 may be configured to transmit only one of the upper or lower limits.

[0133] Furthermore, while Figures 9, 10, and 13 illustrate the case where only the flow rate threshold is transmitted to the pump 70 out of the three thresholds (flow rate threshold, dosage threshold, and administration rate threshold), the explanation is not limited to this. Any configuration in which the terminal device 60 transmits at least one of the three thresholds to the pump 70 is sufficient. For example, the terminal device 60 may be configured to transmit both the flow rate threshold and the dosage threshold to the pump 70.

[0134] The terminal device 60 may be configured to transmit at least one of the upper and lower limits of the dose threshold to the pump 70, similar to the flow rate threshold. Similarly, the terminal device 60 may be configured to transmit at least one of the upper and lower limits of the administration rate threshold to the pump 70.

[0135] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of this disclosure is indicated by the claims and all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims are intended to be included. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0136] 1 Network system, 2 Communication system, 3 Rack system, 10, 60 Terminal devices, 20, 30, 40, 50 Servers, 51, 61, 71 Control units, 53, 64, 73 Clocks, 62 Touchscreen, 65 Pump selection screen, 70A, 70B Infusion pumps, 70C, 70D, 70E Syringe pumps, 74 Drive unit, 75 Speaker, 76 Alarm lamp, 77 Operation panel, 78 Syringe holder, 79 Door, 90 Syringe, 91 Barrel, 92 Plunger rod, 511, 611, 711 Processor, 512, 612, 712 Memory, 621 Touch panel, 622, 772, 773 Display, 741 Press surface, 771 Operation button, 771A Power button, 771B, 771C Menu button, 771D Cumulative volume clear button, 771E, 771F flow rate setting button, 771G bolus button, 771H start button, 771I stop or mute button, 921 flange, D3 drug library data, D41, D42, D43, D44 prescription list data.

Claims

1. Multiple pumps, each capable of administering medication to a patient, The system includes an information processing device that can communicate with each of the aforementioned multiple pumps and stores prescription orders that include identification information of the drug solution to be administered to the patient and a set value for the flow rate or administration rate of the drug solution, The aforementioned information processing device is A screen is displayed for specifying which of the multiple pumps will send the prescription order. With the aforementioned screen displayed, the system accepts an operation to specify the pump to which the prescription order will be sent. A system that associates the prescription order with a designated pump among the plurality of pumps, and transmits the prescription order to the designated pump.

2. When the information processing device receives an operation to specify a pump to which the prescription order will be sent, it transmits a predetermined first signal to the specified pump. The system according to claim 1, wherein the designated pump initiates a predetermined notification based on the receipt of the first signal.

3. The designated pump transmits a predetermined second signal to the information processing device, provided that the drug solution is set in the designated pump. The system according to claim 2, wherein the information processing device transmits the prescription order to the designated pump based on the receipt of the second signal.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein the notification is terminated on the condition that the designated pump has been set with the drug solution to be administered.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the information processing device associates the prescription order with the pump in which the drug solution is set, as the designated pump, and transmits the prescription order to the pump in which the drug solution is set, based on the fact that the drug solution is set in one of the plurality of pumps.

6. Each of the aforementioned pumps is capable of detecting the start of the setting of the drug solution, The system according to claim 5, wherein a pump that detects the start of the aforementioned set starts a predetermined notification.

7. Upon detecting the start of the aforementioned set, the pump transmits a predetermined signal to the information processing device. The system according to claim 6, wherein the information processing device, upon receiving the predetermined signal, provides notification to identify the pump that detected the start of the set.

8. Each of the aforementioned pumps is capable of detecting the completion of setting the drug solution, The system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the pump, upon detecting the start of the set, terminates the predetermined notification upon detecting the completion of the set of the administered drug solution.

9. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the information processing device further transmits to the designated pump at least one of the upper and lower limits of the flow rate of the administered drug solution or at least one of the upper and lower limits of the administration rate of the administered drug solution.

10. The aforementioned information processing device is A list showing multiple prescription orders is displayed, The system according to claim 1, wherein when a barcode on a label attached to a container of liquid medicine is scanned by a barcode scanner, one of the prescription orders is automatically selected from the list based on the result of the scan.

11. The aforementioned information processing device is A list showing multiple prescription orders is displayed, The system according to claim 1, which accepts the selection operation of the prescription order using the list.

12. Processor and The display and A communication interface that communicates with each of several pumps, each capable of administering medication to a patient, The system includes a memory that stores prescription orders, which include identification information of the drug solution to be administered to a patient and a set value for the flow rate or administration rate of the drug solution. The aforementioned processor, A screen for specifying which of the multiple pumps will send the prescription order is displayed on the display. With the screen displayed on the aforementioned display, the system accepts an operation to specify the pump to which the prescription order will be sent. The prescription order is associated with the designated pump among the plurality of pumps, An information processing device that transmits the prescription order to the designated pump via the communication interface.

13. An information processing method performed by an information processing device that communicates with each of a plurality of pumps, each capable of administering a drug solution to a patient, The steps include displaying a screen for specifying which of the multiple pumps will send a prescription order that includes identification information of the drug solution to be administered to the patient and a set value for the flow rate or administration rate of the drug solution, With the aforementioned screen displayed, the system accepts an operation to specify the pump to which the prescription order will be sent, The steps include associating the prescription order with the designated pump among the plurality of pumps, An information processing method comprising the step of transmitting the prescription order to the designated pump.

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