Automatic drug dosing and alert system for resuscitation trolley

Abstract

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation demands rapid and precise responses, particularly in hospital emergency departments. The "Automated Resuscitation Trolley Alert and Drug Dosage System" is designed as an add-on compatible with various resuscitation trolleys. The system features a powerful central processing unit, a liquid-resistant capacitive touchscreen, an audio-visual alert system with high-power LEDs, and communication modules for hospital network integration. It uses artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to calculate drug dosages based on patient information and monitoring data. The audio-visual alert system reduces medical team response times in emergencies. Connectivity to hospital information systems enables quick access to patient data and automatic logging of actions. By enhancing precision and speed in drug administration, minimizing human errors, and improving team coordination, this invention significantly improves the quality of emergency services and the success rate of resuscitation procedures.

Description

Automatic Drug Dosing And Alert System For Resuscitation Trolley

[0001] This invention pertains to emergency medicine and medical equipment, comprising an automatic drug dose calculation and alert system designed to integrate with resuscitation trolleys.

[0002] To ensure the novelty of an invention, it is essential to search national and international databases for prior art, including patents and non-patent literature, such as scientific articles, conference proceedings, theses, and studies. I thoroughly reviewed relevant documents to confirm that my invention had not been disclosed previously. The examination revealed several existing inventions, each with distinct technical features, which I compared to my invention to highlight its unique advantages and differences.

[0003] One such invention, a multifunctional medical floor-stand, is a standalone system designed for medical use. In contrast, my invention is an add-on compatible with any resuscitation trolley, ensuring seamless integration without compatibility issues. Additionally, my invention employs a patient file number and monitoring system to automatically calculate drug dosages, a feature not explicitly mentioned in the prior art. It also incorporates intelligent alert management based on environmental conditions, distinguishing it from the referenced invention.

[0004] Another invention focuses on Internet of Things communication and social networking for hospital medicine disposition. Unlike this system, my invention uses audio alerts and flashing lights to draw the attention of medical staff during code activation. It also includes an automated drug dosage calculation system that retrieves data from patient monitoring and file systems, a capability absent in the prior art. Moreover, my invention’s compatibility as an add-on to any resuscitation trolley sets it apart from the standalone design of the referenced system.

[0005] An intelligent code cart, another prior art, provides audio and visual instructions based on ACLS guidelines and alerts for errors or deficiencies. However, my invention goes further by using audio alerts and flashing lights for code activation and automatically calculating drug dosages using patient files and monitoring data, a feature not present in the prior art. Additionally, its design as an add-on ensures compatibility with various resuscitation trolleys, unlike the standalone nature of the referenced cart.

[0006] A dosage determination apparatus designed primarily for standard hospital conditions contrasts with my invention, which is tailored for high-stress, urgent scenarios where precision and speed in drug administration are critical. My invention includes audio and flashing light alerts for code activation and optimizes drug dosages using patient monitoring data, features not found in the prior art. Its add-on compatibility with resuscitation trolleys further differentiates it.

[0007] A smart emergency trolley with an automatic drug check and voice receiver system focuses on inventory management and supervision. In contrast, my invention automatically calculates drug dosages during resuscitation using patient files and monitoring data, optimizing dosages in real-time, a capability not described in the prior art.

[0008] Another smart resuscitation trolley displays drug quantities based on central processor data and includes a timer for precise resuscitation timing. My invention, however, uses audio and flashing light alerts for code activation and features an automated drug dosage calculator, distinguishing it from the prior art’s focus on display and timing functions.

[0009] Lastly, an automatic monitor-equipped trolley with temperature, humidity, and drug expiration sensors for emergency drug distribution is designed for training and drug administration processes. My invention, by contrast, focuses on automated drug dosage calculation during resuscitation and uses audio and flashing light alerts for code activation, features not present in the referenced system.

[0010] My invention stands out due to its compatibility as an add-on to any resuscitation trolley, its use of patient files and monitoring data for automated drug dosage calculation, its audio and flashing light alerts for code activation, and its intelligent, alert management tailored for high-stress emergency scenarios. These features collectively ensure its novelty and technical superiority over the examined prior art.

[0011] My invention stands out due to its compatibility as an add-on to any resuscitation trolley, its use of patient files and monitoring data for automated drug dosage calculation, its audio and flashing light alerts for code activation, and its intelligent, alert management tailored for high-stress emergency scenarios. These features collectively ensure its novelty and technical superiority over the examined prior art.

[0012] The “Automated Resuscitation Trolley Alert and Drug Dosage System” is an innovative add-on designed to integrate existing resuscitation trolleys in emergency medical settings. This invention addresses critical challenges in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by enhancing the speed, accuracy, and coordination of medical responses in high-stress hospital environments.

[0013] The system tackles the problem of delays in locating resuscitation trolleys by incorporating a robust audio and visual alert mechanism. Upon activation, it emits clear audible signals and dynamic visual cues to guide medical staff swiftly to the trolley’s location, reducing response times and improving the likelihood of successful CPR outcomes.

[0014] The system features an intelligent automated dosage calculation module to minimize human error in drug administration. By leveraging patient-specific data, including weight, age, medical history, and real-time vital signs, it calculates precise drug dosages instantly. This ensures accurate and timely drug administration, tailored to individual patient needs, thereby enhancing patient safety and survival rates.

[0015] The invention facilitates seamless coordination among medical staff through integration with hospital information systems. It enables rapid access to electronic patient records and automatic logging of actions. Its user-friendly interface supports efficient communication and decision-making, streamlining resuscitation efforts across diverse hospital departments.

[0016] Designed for cost-effectiveness, the system is compatible with various resuscitation trolleys and requires no significant modifications to existing equipment. Its modular design and use of widely available components ensure straightforward installation and scalability, making it a practical solution for hospitals with budget constraints.

[0017] In essence, the “Automated Resuscitation Trolley Alert and Drug Dosage System” improves the efficiency and success of resuscitation procedures by providing rapid guidance, precise drug dosing, enhanced team coordination, and a cost-effective implementation. This invention significantly elevates the quality of emergency medical services, ultimately contributing to better patient outcomes.

[0018] Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), particularly in hospital emergency departments, demands rapid and precise responses. Every second of delay in initiating CPR can significantly reduce a patient’s chance of survival. Often, medical staff from various departments are summoned to the resuscitation scene and may lose valuable time due to unfamiliarity with the exact location of the resuscitation trolley. This issue is especially pronounced in large, busy hospitals where ambient noise and human traffic can make locating critical equipment challenging. Consequently, there is a pressing need for an audio and visual alert system that can swiftly direct medical staff to the resuscitation trolley’s location.

[0019] The resuscitation process requires high precision in drug administration and dosage. In high-stress, time-sensitive situations, the likelihood of human error increases, potentially leading to irreversible consequences for patients. Given the complexity of calculating drug dosages based on individual patient factors—such as weight, medical history, and current monitoring data—an intelligent system capable of performing these calculations accurately and rapidly is essential. Without such a system, incorrect drug administration could heighten risks to patients and diminish their survival prospects.

[0020] A significant challenge in resuscitation is the need for swift and effective coordination among medical staff from different hospital departments. Those called to the scene may not be familiar with the precise location of resuscitation equipment, leading to delays in initiating CPR and reducing the likelihood of success. An audio and visual alert system that quickly and clearly guides staff to the resuscitation trolley can effectively address this issue, enhancing team performance and improving the efficiency of resuscitation efforts.

[0021] Hospitals often face budget constraints and require solutions that are both highly effective and cost-efficient. A system designed to be easily installed on existing resuscitation trolleys without necessitating major modifications to current equipment can reduce implementation costs and increase its adoption by hospitals. Such a system should offer quick and straightforward installation to enable rapid deployment across various hospital departments as needed.

[0022] Recognizing the numerous challenges in life-saving procedures like resuscitation, we developed the “Automated Resuscitation Trolley Alert and Drug Dosage System” to enhance patients’ chances of survival. This system integrates audio and visual alerts to guide staff to the trolley, automates precise drug dosage calculations based on patient data, and ensures compatibility with existing trolleys, offering a cost-effective and efficient solution to improve resuscitation outcomes.

[0023] The "Automated Resuscitation Trolley Alert and Drug Dosage System" addresses the critical challenges faced during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in hospital emergency departments by providing an innovative, efficient, cost-effective solution. Designed to enhance response times, minimize human error, improve staff coordination, and align with hospital budget constraints, this system integrates seamlessly with existing resuscitation trolleys.

[0024] The system employs a combined audio and visual alert mechanism to overcome delays in locating resuscitation trolleys, particularly in large and busy hospitals. Upon activation, it generates clear audible signals and dynamic visual cues to guide medical staff swiftly to the trolley's location, even in noisy or chaotic environments. This ensures rapid mobilization of personnel, reducing the time to initiate CPR and improving patient survival chances.

[0025] The system incorporates an intelligent automated dosage calculation feature to address the risk of human error in drug administration during high-stress resuscitation scenarios. It instantly calculates precise drug dosages by accessing patient-specific data, such as weight, age, medical history, and real-time vital signs. This eliminates the need for manual calculations, reduces errors, and ensures timely and accurate drug administration tailored to each patient's needs.

[0026] The system enhances coordination among medical staff from different departments by facilitating seamless integration with hospital information systems. It enables quick access to electronic patient records and automatically logs all actions, streamlining communication and documentation. This ensures that all team members are informed and aligned, improving the efficiency of resuscitation efforts.

[0027] Recognizing hospitals' budget constraints, the system is designed as a modular add-on that requires no significant modifications to existing resuscitation trolleys. Its use of widely available components and straightforward installation process minimize costs and enable rapid deployment across various hospital settings, making it a practical and scalable solution.

[0028] In summary, the "Automated Resuscitation Trolley Alert and Drug Dosage System" resolves key resuscitation challenges by providing rapid guidance to equipment, automating precise drug dosage calculations, enhancing team coordination, and offering a cost-effective solution. These features collectively improve resuscitation procedures' speed, accuracy, and success rate, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes in emergency medical settings.

[0029] The "Automated Resuscitation Trolley Alert and Drug Dosage System" incorporates various features designed to address critical needs in emergency medical settings. It employs audio alerts and flashing lights to rapidly capture the attention of medical staff, significantly improving response times during critical situations. The system enables precise and swift calculation of drug dosages based on patient-specific data, minimizing human errors in drug administration under high-stress conditions. By leveraging real-time patient monitoring data and electronic health records, it optimizes drug dosages for enhanced accuracy. The system facilitates quick access to patient's electronic medical records and automatically logs performed actions, streamlining documentation. It enhances the speed and precision of medical decision-making, ensuring effective interventions. Designed for easy installation, the system seamlessly integrates with various existing resuscitation trolleys without requiring extensive modifications. Ultimately, its cost-effective design reduces hospital operational expenses, making it a practical solution for improving resuscitation outcomes.

[0030] illustrates a detailed view of the primary device body’s front panel, highlighting the emergency activation button with accidental activation protection (01), the device adjustment knob (02), the mounting location for the display screen (03), and the mounting location for the speaker (04).

[0031] provides a side view of the resuscitation trolley system, showing the resuscitation trolley (05) as the base platform and the holder (06) that connects the main device body to the trolley.

[0032] [Fig. 3] offers a comprehensive view of the primary device body (07), depicting the Central Processing Unit (CPU) with parallel processing capability (08), the clock module (09), the audio and visual alarm suppression module (10), the mounting location for the charger module (11), the Type-C charger module (12), the mounting location for LED lights (13), the LED warning lights (14), the mounting location for the speaker (15), the device adjustment buttons (16), the volume control knob (17), the rechargeable lithium-polymer batteries (18), the SD card memory (19), the ESP32 control and programming board with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi (20), the motor for processing artificial intelligence algorithms to calculate drug dosage (21), and the touchscreen display (22).

[0033] To address the identified challenges in resuscitation processes, this invention introduces the "Automated Resuscitation Trolley Alert and Drug Dosage System." Designed as an add-on compatible with various existing resuscitation trolleys, it requires no significant modifications to current equipment, reducing production costs and simplifying installation. Using standard, readily available components such as a capacitive touchscreen, ultrasonic sensors, and high-power LEDs streamlines manufacturing and enhances cost-effectiveness. The system comprises several integrated components described below in a cohesive manner.

[0034] The system's core is a central processing unit (CPU) featuring an eight-core ARM Cortex-A78 processor operating at 2.8 GHz, supporting parallel processing. Equipped with 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and a 512 GB NVMe SSD, it ensures robust performance. The CPU is housed in a 12x8x4 cm aluminum radiator with 45 fins, cooled by two 80 mm PWM fans with variable speeds of 600-2000 RPM, delivering up to 35 CFM airflow with noise levels below 25 dB. An 8 mm diameter, 30 cm long copper heat pipe transfers heat from the CPU to the radiator, maintaining optimal operating temperatures.

[0035] The audio and visual alert system enhances visibility and audibility in chaotic environments. It includes a 3-meter flexible strip of 120 WS2812B RGB LEDs, each emitting 30 lumens, mounted around the top and bottom edges of the trolley. Controlled by a 120 MHz ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller, the LEDs produce complex lighting patterns and color animations to attract attention. The dual-channel audio system consists of two 4-inch, 25-watt speakers with a frequency response of 60 Hz to 22 kHz, positioned at 60-degree angles atop the trolley. Powered by a Class D amplifier with 2x40 watts output and less than 0.1% THD, the speakers ensure clear, loud alerts.

[0036] A 12.3-inch AMOLED capacitive touchscreen with a 2880x1920 resolution and 20-point touch capability serves as the user interface. Coated with a hydrophobic nanocomposite layer, the display is liquid-resistant and antibacterial, featuring an anti-reflective coating and a 178-degree viewing angle for clarity in diverse conditions.

[0037] The system integrates an ESP32-based communication module with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for connectivity, supporting WPA3-Enterprise encryption. An LTE-Advanced Pro module ensures emergency cellular connectivity across multiple frequency bands, while a 10 Gbps Ethernet controller with a waterproof IP68 RJ45 connector enables high-speed data transfer within hospital networks.

[0038] The system's artificial intelligence (AI) processing is handled by a dedicated neural processing unit (NPU) with 16 TOPS capacity, optimized for deep learning models to calculate drug dosages and analyze patient data. Supporting 8-bit and 16-bit quantized formats, the NPU runs on a real-time Linux OS with a custom Qt Quick graphical interface. Drug dosage algorithms, implemented using TensorFlow Lite and OpenVINO, ensure precise calculations. An MQTT-based middleware manages inter-module communications, and the system supports secure over-the-air (OTA) software updates with end-to-end encryption.

[0039] An alert management module powered by a 48 MHz ARM Cortex-M0+ microcontroller with 256 KB non-volatile memory intelligently prioritizes and adjusts alerts based on environmental conditions. A MEMS audio sensor with -38 dBV / Pa sensitivity detects ambient noise levels to dynamically calibrate alert volumes.

[0040] The system is powered by a 600-watt multi-output power supply, supporting 100-240V AC input at 50-60 Hz, with outputs of 12V / 25A, 5V / 20A, and 3.3V / 15A. A 95% efficient DC-DC converter generates required voltages, and an automatic switching system transitions between AC and battery power in under 10 milliseconds. The power unit, measuring 20x15x5 cm, is mounted at a 15-degree angle at the trolley's base for optimal ventilation. A 20,000 mAh, 11.1V lithium-ion polymer battery, weighing 850 grams and measuring 15x10x2.5 cm, supports 100W fast charging, reaching 80% capacity in 45 minutes. With over 1000 charge / discharge cycles and at least 80% capacity retention, the battery is managed by an advanced BMS communicating via SMBus.

[0041] An emergency activation button, a 22 mm push switch with a 40 mm diameter, 25 mm high transparent plexiglass cover, requires 15 Newtons of force to activate and offers over 1 million cycles of mechanical durability. An internal RGB LED with 200 millicandela brightness indicates system status, preventing accidental activation.

[0042] This system's modular design, cost-effective components, and advanced functionalities—such as AI-driven dosage calculations, robust connectivity, and dynamic audio-visual alerts—address critical resuscitation challenges, enhancing response times, accuracy, and coordination in emergency settings while remaining economically viable for hospital adoption.Examples

[0043] The automatic drug dosing and alert system is integrated into a resuscitation trolley in a hospital emergency department. The system comprises a central processing unit, a touchscreen display, sensors, an audio system, and warning LEDs. The following steps illustrate the system's operation during a cardiac arrest scenario:

[0044] System Installation and Setup: The system is pre-installed on the resuscitation trolley, with the central processing unit connected to a touchscreen interface, audio speakers, and LED indicators. The system is linked to the hospital's network via Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or a SIM card module, enabling access to electronic patient records.

[0045] Activation: The system automatically powers on upon initiation of a resuscitation code or by pressing an emergency activation button. Alternatively, medical staff can manually activate it.

[0046] Alert and Guidance: The system emits audible alerts and activates flashing LEDs to draw the attention of medical personnel and guide them to the trolley's location within the emergency department.

[0047] Patient Data Input: Medical staff input the patient's identification number via the touchscreen interface. The system retrieves additional patient data from the hospital's electronic health record system, such as age, weight, and medical history.

[0048] Vital Signs Monitoring: The system receives real-time vital signs data (e.g., heart rate, oxygen saturation) from connected monitoring devices.

[0049] Drug Dose Calculation: Using artificial intelligence or machine learning algorithms, the system calculates the appropriate drug dose based on patient-specific parameters (e.g., weight, age) and real-time vital signs. For instance, for a 70 kg adult patient requiring epinephrine during cardiac arrest, the system calculates a 1 mg dose per standard protocol.

[0050] Display of Information: The calculated dose, along with administration instructions, is displayed on the touchscreen interface for medical staff review.

[0051] Confirmation and Administration: The medical team confirms the recommended dose via the interface, prepares the drug, and administers it to the patient.

[0052] Action Logging: All actions, including the calculated dose, confirmation time, and administration details, are automatically recorded in the patient's electronic health record.

[0053] Continuous Updates: The system monitors patient data and updates recommendations as needed, providing new dosing instructions if the patient's condition changes during resuscitation.

[0054] This example demonstrates the system's ability to streamline drug dosing, reduce human error, and enhance the efficiency of resuscitation procedures in high-pressure emergency settings, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

[0055] The invention pertains to the medical equipment industry, specifically targeting emergency and resuscitation equipment. The designed device is adaptable for installation on resuscitation trolleys used in hospitals, medical centers, and ambulances.

[0056]

[0057]

[0058]

[0059]

[0060] Patent EP3482733A1, "MULTIFUNCTIONAL MEDICAL FLOOR-STAND", European Patent Office.

[0061] Patent US11705227B2, "INTERNET OF THINGS COMMUNICATION AND SOCIAL NETWORK FOR MEDICINE DISPOSITION IN HOSPITALS", United States Patent and Trademark Office.

[0062] Patent Application US2020 / 0155401A1, "INTELLIGENT CODE CART", United States Patent and Trademark Office.

[0063] Patent Application US2021 / 0343388A1, "DOSAGE DETERMINATION APPARATUS", United States Patent and Trademark Office.

[0064] Patent Application 139650140003011180, "Smart Emergency Trolley Equipped with Automatic Drug Check and Voice Receiver System", Iranian Patent Office.

[0065] Patent Application 139850140003001140, "Smart Resuscitation Trolley", Iranian Patent Office.

[0066] Patent Application 139950140003006294, "Automatic Monitor-Equipped Trolley for Emergency Drug Distribution with Temperature, Humidity, Drug Expiration, and Alcohol Detection Sensors", Iranian Patent Office.

Claims

An automated drug dosing and alert system for a resuscitation trolley comprising:a central processing unit with parallel processing capabilities; a liquid-resistant capacitive touchscreen display; an audio and visual alert system; a communication module for connecting to a hospital network; an artificial intelligence algorithm processing engine for calculating drug dosages; an audio and visual alert termination module; and an emergency activation button with an anti-accidental activation cover, wherein the system is configured to be installed on existing resuscitation trolleys.The system, according to claim 1, wherein the communication module for connecting to the hospital network comprises a combined Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chipset integrated with an antenna and supporting encryption; a module supporting multiple frequency bands for emergency cellular communication; and an Ethernet interface with a waterproof connector, wherein the communication module accesses and processes patient information and records from the hospital network for use as needed.The system, according to claim 1, wherein the processing engine employs artificial intelligence or machine learning algorithms for drug dosage calculation, comprising a dedicated neural processing unit supporting quantized formats and optimized libraries for machine learning algorithms, wherein the processing engine automatically calculates and provides required drug dosages based on provided data patterns.The system, according to claim 1, wherein the central processing unit with parallel processing capabilities is configured such that, upon the medical staff locating the resuscitation trolley and opening the drug drawer, the audio and visual alert termination module deactivates the alerts, and the drug dosing process for resuscitation begins.

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