Automatic sleep mode for patient support apparatus

Abstract

A patient support system for a patient room includes a patient support apparatus. A patient support surface is positioned on the patient support apparatus. A sensor is located in the patient support apparatus and configured to detect data related to at least one of the patient support apparatus or a patient positioned on the patient support surface. The sensor determines whether the patient positioned on the patient support surface is sleeping based on the data detected by the sensor. In response to the sensor determining that the patient positioned on the patient support surface is sleeping, a control system changes a status of at least one device in the patient room.

Description

Attorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1AUTOMATIC SLEEP MODE EOR PATIENT SUPPORT APPARATUSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 734,410, filed December 16, 2024, which is expressly incorporated by reference herein.BACKGROUND

[0002] The present disclosure relates to patient support apparatuses and, more particularly, to an automatic sleep mode for a patient support apparatus.

[0003] Patients in a healthcare facility are often required to stay in the facility overnight. Some healthcare facility beds utilize a sleep mode that reduces a frequency of valve adjustments in the mattress, while still maintaining a continuous low pressure or alternate low pressure mode in the bladders of the mattress. This mode provides the benefits of reducing pressure-induced injuries, while also making the patient more comfortable while they sleep. Typically, the sleep mode is manually commanded from the bedside by a caregiver and runs for a predetermined period of time. Also, at the time of commanding the sleep mode, other actions are performed by the caregiver to make the environment in the patient room more comfortable for the patient, such as lowering or muting volumes for media and dimming device lights or room lights. Generally, the mattress does not exit the sleep mode when the patient wakes up, thereby requiring the caregiver to turn off the sleep mode.SUMMARY

[0004] The present disclosure includes one or more of the features recited in the appended claims and / or the following features which, alone or in any combination, may comprise patentable subject matter.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the disclosed embodiments, a patient support system for a patient room includes a patient support apparatus positioned in the patient room. A patient support surface is positioned on the patient support apparatus. The patient support surface includes a bladder and a pneumatic system that controls a pressure of the bladder. A sensor is located in the patient support apparatus and configured to detect data related to at least one of the patient support apparatus or a patient positioned on the patient support surface. A control system is in communication with the sensor. The sensor determines whether the patient positioned on the patient support surface is sleeping based on the data detected by the sensor. InAttorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1 response to the sensor determining that the patient positioned on the patient support surface is sleeping, the control system changes pressure threshold values of the bladder so that an air source and valves of the pneumatic system are operated less frequently, dims a graphical user interface lighting of the patient support apparatus, and sends a signal to alter a status of a device in the patient room.

[0006] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the sensor may include a sensor that detects at least one of a heart rate or a respiratory rate of the patient. The sensor may determine that the patient is sleeping if at least one of the heart rate or the respiratory rate of the patient falls below a predetermined threshold. The sensor may be positioned on the patient support surface below a torso of the patient. The sensor may include a movement sensor that detects movement of the patient. The sensor may determine that the patient is sleeping if a measured movement of the patient falls below a predetermined rate. The predetermined rate may be measured based on an amount of patient movement over a period of time. The sensor may be positioned on the patient support surface below a torso of the patient. The sensor may be a head of bed sensor that detects an angle of a head end of the patient support apparatus. The sensor may determine that the patient is sleeping based on an angle of the head section of the patient support apparatus. The sensor may determine that the patient is sleeping if the head section of the patient support apparatus is lowered to below a predetermined angle relative to a torso section of the patient support apparatus.

[0007] Optionally, in the first aspect, the control system may lower a head section of the patient support apparatus, in response to the sensor determining that the patient is sleeping. In response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system may return the head section of the patient support apparatus to an original position. The control system may raise siderails of the patient support apparatus, in response to the sensor determining that the patient is sleeping. In response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system may return the siderails of the patient support apparatus to an original position. In response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system may change the pressure threshold values of the bladder so that the air source and valves of the pneumatic system are operated more frequently. The control system may alter a status of the device in the patient room by turning the device off. In response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system may turn the device back on. The control system may alter a status of the device in the patient room by muting the device. In response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system may unmute the device. The control system may alter a status of the device in the patient room by lowering a volume ofAttorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1 the device. In response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system may return the volume of the device to an original level. The control system may alter a status of the device in the patient room by dimming a light of the device. In response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system may return the light of the device to an original level.

[0008] According to a second aspect of the disclosed embodiments, a method of controlling a patient support system in a patient room includes detecting, using a sensor, data related to at least one of a patient support apparatus or a patient positioned on a patient support surface of the patient support apparatus. The method also includes determining whether the patient positioned on the patient support surface is sleeping based on the data detected by the sensor. In response to the sensor determining that the patient positioned on the patient support surface is sleeping, the method also includes changing pressure threshold values of a bladder of the patient support surface so that an air source and valves of a pneumatic system of the patient support surface are operated less frequently, dimming a graphical user interface lighting of the patient support apparatus, and sending a signal to alter a status of a device in the patient room.

[0009] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the method may also include positioning the sensor on the patient support surface below a torso of the patient. The method may also include detecting at least one of a heart rate or a respiratory rate of the patient. The method may also include determining that the patient is sleeping if at least one of the heart rate or the respiratory rate of the patient falls below a predetermined threshold. The method may also include detecting movement of the patient. The method may also include determining that the patient is sleeping if a measured movement of the patient falls below a predetermined rate. The method may also include measuring the predetermined rate based on an amount of patient movement over a period of time. The method may also include detecting an angle of a head end of the patient support apparatus. The method may also include determining that the patient is sleeping based on an angle of the head section of the patient support apparatus. The method may also include determining that the patient is sleeping if the head section of the patient support apparatus is lowered to below a predetermined angle relative to a torso section of the patient support apparatus.

[0010] Optionally, in the second aspect, the method may also include lowering a head section of the patient support apparatus, in response to the sensor determining that the patient is sleeping. In response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the method may also include returning the head section of the patient support apparatus to an original position. The method may also include raising siderails of the patient support apparatus, in response toAttorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1 the sensor determining that the patient is sleeping. In response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the method may also include returning the siderails of the patient support apparatus to an original position. In response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the method may also include changing the pressure threshold values of a bladder of the patient support surface so that the air source and valves of the pneumatic system are operated more frequently. The method may also include altering a status of the device in the patient room by turning the device off. In response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the method may also include turning the device back on. The method may also include altering a status of the device in the patient room by muting the device. In response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the method may also include unmuting the device. The method may also include altering a status of the device in the patient room by lowering a volume of the device. In response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the method may also include returning the volume of the device to an original level. The method may also include altering a status of the device in the patient room by dimming a light of the device. In response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the method may also include returning the light of the device to an original level.

[0011] According to a third aspect of the disclosed embodiments, a patient support apparatus includes a patient support surface having at least one inflatable bladder. A sensor is position on the patient support surface below a torso of a patient lying on the patient support surface. The sensor is configured to detect at least one of a heart rate or a respiratory rate of the patient. A control system is in communication with the sensor. The sensor determines whether the patient is sleeping based on at least one of the heart rate or the respiratory rate of the patient. In response to the sensor determining that the patient is sleeping, the control system adjusts the at least one inflatable bladder to a sleep mode position.

[0012] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the sensor may be a piezoelectric sensor. The sensor may determine that the patient is sleeping if at least one of the heart rate or the respiratory rate of the patient falls below a predetermined threshold. The sensor may determine that the patient is sleeping if a measured movement of the patient falls below a predetermined rate. The sensor may be positioned below the patient support surface below a torso of the patient.

[0013] Additional features, which alone or in combination with any other feature(s), such as those listed above and / or those listed in the claims, can comprise patentable subject matter and will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the followingAttorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1 detailed description of various embodiments exemplifying the best mode of carrying out the embodiments as presently perceived.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The detailed description particularly refers to the accompanying figures in which:

[0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a patient support apparatus in accordance with an embodiment and having a sensor positioned under the mattress;

[0016] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a patient support system in a healthcare facility, wherein the patient support system includes the patient support apparatus and at least one ancillary device;

[0017] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a method for controlling the patient support apparatus and devices shown in FIGs. 1 and 2 in response to data collected by at least the sensors shown in FIGs. 1 and 2; and

[0018] FIG. 4 is a graph of pressure settings for the air bladders of the patient support apparatus both while the patient is sleeping and while the patient is awake.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] While the concepts of the present disclosure are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific exemplary embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intent to limit the concepts of the present disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 1, a patient support apparatus, illustrated as a bed 10, has a patient support surface, illustrated as a mattress 14, configured to support a patient thereon. A touch screen 12 (aka a graphical user interface (GUI) 12) provides inputs to a control system of the bed 10 for control of various functions of bed 10 in response to selections made thereon by a caregiver or other user operating the bed 10. Portions of the control system of bed 10 are discussed below in connection with Fig. 2 and it should be understood that the control system of bed 10 includes a wide variety of electrical components located throughout the bed 10. Adjacent to GUI 12 is a control panel 40 having hard buttons, such as membrane switches, that also control various functions of bed 10 in response to being pressed by the caregiver or otherAttorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1 user. Thus, the buttons of control panel 40 also provide inputs to the control system of the bed 10. For example, GUI 12 and / or the buttons of control panel 40 are used to control a lateral rotation function or a turn assist function of the mattress 14. The bed 10 further includes a base frame 16, an intermediate frame 20 coupled to the base frame 16 by linkages 18, and an articulating deck frame 22 that is coupled to the intermediate frame 20 and that supports the mattress 14. Linkages 18 are moved by associated actuators to raise, lower, and tilt the intermediate frame 20 and the bed components supported thereby relative to base frame 16.

[0021] Still referring to FIG. 1, the bed 10 also includes a head end 24, a foot end 26, and four siderails. The four siderails include a first foot end siderail 28, a second foot end siderail 29, a first head end siderail 30, and a second head end siderail 31. Siderails 28, 29 are sometimes referred to as “foot rails” and side rails 30, 31 are sometimes referred to as “head rails.” The deck frame 22 includes separate sections that articulate relative to the base frame 16 and relative to each other. Deck frame 22 of illustrative bed 10 includes a head section, a seat section, a thigh section, and a foot section which, for the most part are obscured from view in Fig. 1 by the mattress 14 and by siderails 28, 31. However, these deck frame sections are well known in the art. For example, a torso support portion 32 of the mattress 14 (aka head support portion 32) is supported by the head section and a foot support portion 34 of the mattress 14 is supported by the foot section. A seat portion and a thigh portion of mattress 14 are supported by the seat and thigh sections, respectively, of deck frame 22. In some embodiments, the seat section of deck frame 22 is fixed to the intermediate frame 20, whereas the other sections of deck frame 22 are pivotable relative to each other and relative to the intermediate frame, although, the foot section pivots relative to the thigh section which, in turn pivots relative to the intermediate frame 20. The buttons of control panel 40 are used to control articulation of the various sections of deck frame 22. The movement of the linkages 18, intermediate frame 20, and the sections of the deck frame 22, along with the siderails 28, 29, 30, 31 coupled thereto, are controlled by the control system of bed 12 in response to user inputs corresponding to the selected button(s) of control panel 40. User inputs provided on GUI 12 also result in movement of one or more of these components of the bed 10 for some functions.

[0022] The control system of the bed 10 is connected to various sensors that are configured to detect data related to the patient support apparatus 10 and / or the patient supported thereon. For example, in some embodiments, the various sensors include a head-of-bed (HOB) angle sensor 98 (shown diagrammatically in Fig. 1) that detects an angle of the head section relative to the ground and / or relative to another component of the bed 10. For example, the angle sensor 98 detects an angle of the head section relative to the intermediate frame 20, whileAttorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1 a foot angle sensor (not shown) detects an angle of the foot section relative to the thigh section. In some embodiments, angle sensors, such as rotary potentiometers, are included in linear actuators (not shown) that pivotably articulate the head, thigh, and foot sections of the deck frame 22. Similar angle sensors are included in the linear actuators that are provided for moving linkages 18. Based on signals from these various angle sensors, the control system determines the positions of the various movable portions of the bed 10 relative to other portions of the bed 10 and / or relative to the floor. An additional sensor 100 is located on the patient support apparatus 10, and particularly, on the head section under the head support portion 32 of the mattress 14 that supports the torso of the patient, to detect data related to a patient positioned on the mattress 14.

[0023] In some embodiments, the sensor 100 detects a respiratory rate and / or heart rate of the patient, as well as movement of the patient. In one embodiment, the sensor 100 is a contact-free sensor with EARLYSENSE® technology provided by Hill-Rom Services, Inc. Further details of a suitable sensor 100 are provided, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 12,082,913 which is hereby incorporated herein by reference for all that it teaches to the extent not inconsistent with the present disclosure which shall control as to any inconsistencies. In some embodiments, the sensor 100 is a piezoelectric sensor. The sensor 100 is placed under the mattress and sensing begins automatically when the patient enters the bed 10. The sensor 100 reduces a need for leads, wires, or probes that contact the patient which improves patient comfort. The sensor 100 is compatible with most mattress types including foam mattresses, air mattresses, and mattresses having both air and foam support elements. The sensor 100 continuously monitors the heart rate and respiratory rate of the corresponding patient in some embodiments. The sensor 100 is placed under the mattress 14 and detects pressure changes which converts to information (aka data) about heart rate, breathing, and motion. Additional details of the patient support apparatus 10 are provided in U.S. Patent No. 10,517,784, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety to the extent not inconsistent with the present disclosure which shall control as to any inconsistencies.

[0024] Referring now to FIG. 2, a patient support and communication system 200 includes the patient support apparatus 10, as well as other devices in a healthcare facility. The components of the patient support and communication system 200 are networked together, such as via a power over Ethernet (PoE) switch 202. The PoE switch 202 passes electric power along with data on suitable conductors, such as twisted-pair Ethernet cabling, to allow a single cable to provide both a data connection and a power connection to networked devices in the patient support and communication system 200. The PoE switch 202 is coupled to a healthcare facilityAttorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1 network 204. In some embodiments, the network 204 includes a cloud network. In some embodiments, the network 204 includes servers in the healthcare facility and / or remote servers that store and connect data throughout the healthcare facility.

[0025] A medical device 206 communicates wirelessly with the healthcare facility network 204 such as via a WiFi access point (WAP) 208 of the network 204. Wired connections between medical device 206 and network 204 are also contemplated by the present disclosure. One contemplated medical device 206 is an infusion pump such as, for example, an infusion pump provided by Baxter International, Inc., in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the medical device 206 includes one or more other medical devices, for example an intravenous pump and / or a vital signs monitor and / or dialysis equipment, just to give a few examples.

[0026] A staff console 220 is coupled to the switch 202. In some embodiments, the console 220 is provided at a nurse’s station or other location within the healthcare facility at which caregivers congregate, including hallways, break rooms, and the like. In some embodiments, the console 220 is a remote device, for example, a device carried by a healthcare provider. Server personal computers 222 include a monitor 224 and accessories 226, for example, a keyboard and mouse. The sever computers 222 are located throughout the healthcare facility to receive and store data related to patients and to provide patient data to caregivers using the computers 222.

[0027] A room control board 230 is positioned in or near the patient room having the patient support apparatus 10. The room control board 230 is connected to an overall system throughout healthcare facility. The room control board 230 is part of a nurse call system of the healthcare facility and controls communications to and from other components of the nurse call system, such as those located within the patient room and those situated outside the patient room. For example, the room control board 230 is optionally connected to and controls a single bulb dome light 232. In other embodiments, the room control board 230 is connected to and controls a dome light / zone light 234. Lights 232, 234 provide nurse call status and / or equipment status (e.g., occurrence of bed alerts) in a hallway of the healthcare facility. Thus, lights 232, 234 are mounted adjacent to the doorways of each of the patient rooms. In the exemplary embodiment, the room control board 230 is also connected to a remote call device 236, such as a shower call switch, that enables the patient to send nurse calls to the caregivers when needed.

[0028] A room station 238 is provided in each room and is used by caregivers to send notifications and other information throughout healthcare facility and to receive information and notifications. In some embodiments, the room station 238 has a code blue lever that is pulled if the associated patient goes into cardiac arrest. Room stations 238 have display screens,Attorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1 microphones, and speakers in some embodiments to enable voice communications with other room stations 238 and staff consoles 220 as well as with caregiver mobile devices such as mobile phones. The room station 238 is connected to an audio station bed connector (ASBC) 250 such as via an RJ-45 connector 252. It will be appreciated that any suitable connector may be used to connect the room station 238 and the ASBC 250. The ASBC 250 receives bed status data, including bed alerts, from bed 10 and sends the status data and alerts on to other components of the associated nurse call system. Alerts are sent to other devices of the nurse call system and / or to caregiver wireless devices to provide the real-time information about patient, equipment, or room status. In some embodiments, the room station 238 includes a graphical touch screen, automated patient surveillance, and integrated staff locating. Bed status data and alerts communicated through ASBC 250 includes bed exit alarms, siderail position data, brake status data (e.g., braked / unbraked), head-of-bed angle, and patient weight, just to give a few example. In some embodiments, the ASBC 250 provides bi-directional digital data integration between other devices of the nurse call system, smart beds, EMR systems, and wireless devices. Each ASBC 250 is also in the communication path for nurse calls and bed events, like bed exit alarms, that are ultimately provided to caregiver mobile devices or handsets.

[0029] A D-sub connector 254 of the ASBC 250 connects the ASBC 250 to a pillow speaker unit 256 that is a handheld unit provided to each patient for placing nurse calls and for listening to TV audio, as well as for speaking and listening to caregivers who open up an audio channel to the pillow speaker unit 256 from another component of the nurse call system, such as one of the staff consoles 220 or one of the room stations 238 in another room of the healthcare facility or one of the caregiver wireless devices. In some embodiments, the functionality of the pillow speaker unit 256 is instead provided by the patient support apparatus 10 in which case a separate pillow speaker unit 256 is not needed. In other embodiments, the pillow speaker unit 256 is wired to a connector provided on the patient support apparatus 10 rather than being wired to connector 254 of ASBC 250. It will be appreciated that any suitable connector is usable to connect the pillow speaker unit 256 to the ASBC 250.

[0030] A 14-pin connector 258 of the ASBC 250 connects to lights 260 and to television (TV) 262. The connection between connector 258 and lights 260 is through power supplies 264 and relays 266. The connection between connector 258 and TV 262 is through individual conductors (e.g., wires), in the illustrative example. That is, at least some of the pins in the 14-pin connector 258 are coupled to the lights 260 and other pins of the 14-pin connector 258 are coupled to the television 262. In some embodiments, at least one pin of the connector 258 is a ground pin. Commands to control the lights 260 and the TV 262, therefore, are input byAttorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1 a patient using buttons of the bed 10 and / or using buttons of pillow speaker unit 256 and the commands are transmitted as electrical signals through the ASBC 250 to the respective lights 260 or TV 262. The present disclosure contemplates that these same commands are transmitted from bed 10 for control of lights 260 and / or TV 262 when the patient is determined by the bed 10 to have fallen asleep or has woken up from being asleep as will be described in further detail below. It should be appreciated that other suitable connectors may be used to couple the ASBC 250 to the lights 260 and TV 262 in lieu of the illustrative 14-pin connector. In the illustrative embodiment, the lights 260 include a reading light 268 and a room light 270.

[0031] A 37-pin connector 272 of the ASBC 250 connects the ASBC 250 to the patient support apparatus 10. It will also be appreciated that other suitable connectors may be used to couple the ASBC 250 to the patient support apparatus 10. In one embodiment, the 37-pin connector 272 is hardwired, such as with a cable having 37-pin connectors at its ends, to a communication board 280 of the patient support apparatus 10. In some embodiments, connector 272 connects to a wall module 284 via a wired connection and the wall module 284, in turn, communicates over a Bluetooth connection with a Bluetooth radio 282 of the patient support apparatus 10. Further details of such a suitable wall module 284 are shown and described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 0233382 Al which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety to the extent not inconsistent with the present disclosure which shall control as to any inconsistencies. In alternative embodiments, a smart outlet is used in lieu of the wall module 284 to make a secure, one-to-one Bluetooth connection between the audio station bed connector 250 and the patient support apparatus 10. In this regard, see U.S. Application No. 18 / 910,490 which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety to the extent not inconsistent with the present disclosure which shall control as to any inconsistencies.

[0032] Patient support apparatus 10 includes a main control board 300 with a system on a module (SoM) 302 that provides a board-level circuit to integrate the functions of the patient support apparatus 10 into a single module. In some embodiments, the SoM 302 integrates digital and analog functions of the patient support apparatus 10 on a single board. The SoM 302 includes a processor 304. A memory 306 of SoM 302 stores instructions configured to be carried out by the processor 304 to control the patient support apparatus 10. The SoM 302 of main control board 300, therefore, serves as the primary controller of the control system of bed 10. The main control board 300 is also coupled to a power board 308 having a plug 310 that is configured to coupled to an outlet to provide power to the patient support apparatus 10.Attorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1

[0033] The sensor 100 is coupled to the main control board 300 in the illustrative example. Accordingly, the main control board 300 is capable of receiving data from the sensor 100 and controlling the patient support apparatus 10 and / or other devices in the patient support and communication system 200 based on the data from the sensor 100, as described herein. A scale control board 312 of bed 10 is also coupled to the main control board 300 so that the main control board 300 is capable of receiving data from the scale control board 312 and controlling the patient support apparatus 10 and / or other devices in the patient support and communication system 200 based on the data from the scale control board 312, as described herein. The scale control board 312 includes a processor 314 and a memory 316 that stores instructions configured to be carried out by the processor 314 to send data to the main control board 300.

[0034] The scale control board 312 receives data from load cells 320, 322, 324, 326, which are positioned between the intermediate frame 20 and a weigh frame (not shown) of bed 10 as is known in the art of weigh scale system of patient beds. The load cells 320, 322, 324, 326 are configured to detect patient weight and patient position on bed 10. For example, as described herein, data from the load cells 320, 322, 324, 326, in some embodiments, is used to determine whether the patient on the patient support apparatus 10 is sleeping. The data from the load cells 320, 322, 324, 326 is delivered to the main control board 300, which utilizes the data to control the patient support apparatus 10 and the devices in the patient support system 200, as described herein. In one embodiment, each of the load cells 320, 322, 324, 326 includes a strain gauge load cell. In other embodiments, one or more of the load cells 320, 322, 324, 326 includes another type of load cell such as a capacitive load cell, a linear variable displacement transducer (LVDT), a magneto strictive load cell, and the like.

[0035] With continued reference to FIG. 2, an air control board 330 of bed 10 is coupled to the main control board 300. The air control board 330 includes a processor 332 and memory 334 that stores instructions configured to be carried out by the processor 332 to control a pneumatic system 350 of the patient support apparatus 10. The pneumatic system 350 includes one or more air sources 352, for example a pump, compressor, and / or blower, and a plurality of valves 382 that control an air pressure in a plurality of bladders 356 of a bladder assembly 358 provided in the mattress 14. The bladder assembly 358 includes a left side rotation bladder 360 and a right side rotation bladder 362. The rotation bladders 360 and 362 are configured to rotate the patient on the mattress 14 for turn assist and / or for continuous lateral rotation therapy (CLRT). The rotation bladders 360 and 362 are fluidly coupled to both a discharge port and an inlet of the air source 352 to enable the air source 352 to both inflate and deflate the rotation bladders 360, 362 via application of positive pressure and negative pressure, respectively, to theAttorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1 bladders 360, 362. One or more zone bladders 364 are positioned in the head support portion 32 of the mattress 14. One or more zone bladders 366 are positioned in the seat and / or thigh support portions of the mattress 14. One or more zone bladders 368 are positioned in the foot support portion 34 of the mattress 14. Thus, zone bladders 364, 366, 368 each include a group of multiple bladders 356. Pressure sensors 380 detect the air pressure in each of the bladders 356 of rotation bladders 360, 362, and each group of bladders 356 of the respective zone bladders 364, 366, 368 of the bladder assembly 358.

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment, each rotation bladder 360, 362 and each of zone bladder(s) 364, 366, 368 includes a dedicated valve 382 that controls a flow of fluid to and from the respective bladder(s) 356 to adjust a pressure in each bladder 356 or group of bladders 356, as the case may be. The pressure of each of rotation bladders 360, 362, and zone bladders 364, 366, 368, therefore, is adjustable to control a comfort level of the mattress 14 for the patient and / or to turn the patient to prevent ulcers and bed sores. The valves 382 for zone bladders 364, 366, 38 are three-position valves which are either closed; opened to a first position to connect the respective zone bladder 364, 366, 368 to the air source 352 to receive pressurized air therefrom; or opened to a second position to allow air from the respective zone bladder 364, 366, 368 to escape to atmosphere.

[0037] In some embodiments, a microclimate layer 370 is provided in the mattress 14 of the patient support apparatus 10. The microclimate layer 370 passes air from the air source 352 to a top layer of the mattress 14. The air passes through the top layer of the mattress 14 to cool and dry the patient positioned on the mattress 14. The air passing through the microclimate layer 370 is discharged to the atmosphere. Based on the foregoing, it should be appreciated that the pneumatic system 350 serves as the portion of the control system of bed 10 that controls inflation and deflation of mattress 14.

[0038] All of the devices in the patient support and communication system 200, including the patient support apparatus 10, are capable of being controlled based on information obtained by the control system from sensor 100 and / or load cells 320, 322, 324, 326 with regard to whether the patient is asleep or awake. For example, the television 262 and / or pillow speaker unit 256 are each capable of being turned on or off by the control system. Additionally, the control system controls functions of the medical device(s) 206, television 262 and / or pillow speaker unit 256, such as dimming the brightness of the television 262 and / or controlling a volume of the television 262 and / or pillow speaker unit 256, in some embodiments. Additionally, each of the above described lights 232, 234, 260 is capable of being altered (dimmed) or turned on or off by the control system, as is the brightness or on / off state of GUIAttorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU112 and / or other lights of bed 10 if the patient is determined by the control system to be asleep. Such other lights include alert lights located at the foot end 26 of the bed 10 and used to project certain bed status information onto a floor of the patient room in which the bed 10 is located. The control system of bed 10 is further capable of altering the lights and the volume of one or more medical devices 206 by sending commands and / or sleep / awake information through the patient support and communication system 200 to the one or more medical devices 206. In a sleep mode, the control system of the bed 10 changes pressure threshold values of the bladders 356, such as bladders 360, 362 or those of zone bladders 364, 366, 368, so that the air source 352 and the valves 382 of the pneumatic system 350 are operated less frequently to provide a still mattress 14 and to reduce the amount of noise produced by operation of the air source 352 and the switching of the valves 382.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 3, a method 400 of controlling the patient support and communication system 200 includes monitoring the patient on the patient support apparatus 10, at block 402. For example, the control system of the bed 10 continuously monitors the patient using the sensor 100 positioned under the patient. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor 100 monitors at least one of the patient’s heart rate, the patient’s respiratory rate, or movement of the patient. Alternatively or additionally, movement is detected by the load cells 320, 322, 324, 326. Further alternatively or additionally, the control system of the bed 10 continuously monitors the head of bed sensor 98 to track an angle of the head section of the bed 10 that supports the head support portion 32 of the mattress 14 relative to the intermediate frame 20 or relative to the floor. The word “continuously” or “continuous” used herein in connection with monitoring of a sensor or other device includes intermittent monitoring such as may occur when sensor data is acquired on a periodic basis, such as every 5 milliseconds, every 20 milliseconds, every 250 milliseconds, one per second, etc., just to give a few examples of periodic intervals that are considered to be within the scope of monitoring “continuously” according to the present disclosure.

[0040] At block 404, the control system determines whether the patient is sleeping based on data from at least one of the sensor 100, the head of bed sensor 98, the load cells 320, 322, 324, 326, and / or any other sensor provided by the patient support apparatus 10 or the patient support and communication system 200. Such other sensor may include, for example, an imaging device such as a camera or RADAR sensor mounted in a patient room or included in the patient bed 10. In some embodiments, the control system of the bed 10 determines that the patient is sleeping if the heart rate of the patient, as detected by the sensor 100 falls below a predetermined threshold. For example, the predetermined threshold, in some embodiments, is aAttorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1 lowered heart rate level that generally indicates that a person is sleeping such as 40 beats per minute or 50 beats per minute, or 20% to 30% below the person’ s resting heart rate.

[0041] In some embodiments, the control system of the bed 10 determines that the patient is sleeping if the respiratory rate of the patient, as detected by the sensor 100 falls below a predetermined threshold. For example, the predetermined threshold, in some embodiments, is a lowered respiratory rate level that generally indicates that a person is sleeping. In some embodiments, the control system determines that the patient is sleeping if movement of the patient, as detected by the sensor 100 falls below a predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, the predetermined movement threshold does not necessarily require the patient to be completely still. That is, in some embodiments, the predetermined movement threshold allows for some movement by the patient. It will be appreciated that the control system, in some embodiments, determines that the patient is sleeping based on a combination of any one or more of patient respiratory rate, patient heart rate, or patient movement.

[0042] In some embodiments, the control system of the bed 10 determines that the patient is sleeping based on an angle of the head section of the patient support apparatus 10, as detected by the HOB sensor 98. That is, movement of the head section of the patient support apparatus 12 below a predetermined angle relative to the intermediate frame 20 often indicates that the patient intends to sleep. For example, movement of the head section to a flat configuration (i.e., lowered to a generally horizonal position) often indicates that the patient intends to sleep. In some embodiments, an additional sensor detects a position of the foot section of the patient support apparatus 10 relative to the thigh section or seat section. For example, positioning the foot section, the thigh section, and the head section all flat (i.e., generally horizonal and coplanar) relative to the intermediate frame and / or the floor, often indicates a patient’s intent to sleep. In one embodiment, the data related to the positions of the bed sections in combination with some or all of the data collected by the sensor 100 and / or load cells 320, 322, 324, 326 are utilized by the control system to determine whether the patient is sleeping.

[0043] In some embodiments, the control system of the bed 10 uses artificial intelligence patterns or algorithms based on patient vitals data (e.g., data from the sensor 100) or bed position data to determine when the patient has gone to sleep. This information is used to automatically adjust bed 10 and / or environmental conditions in the patient room to be more conducive to sleeping. For example, at block 406, the control system alters a status of at least one of the patient support apparatus 10 or a device in the patient room, such as devices 206, 260, 262, from a current mode to a sleep mode. In one embodiment of the sleep mode, theAttorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1 control system changes pressure threshold values of the bladders 356 in the mattress 14 so that the air source 352 and the valves 382 of the pneumatic system 350 are operated less frequently. Such adjustments provide a more quiet and still configuration of the mattress 14 that is conducive to sleeping. In some embodiments, activating a smart air surface sleep mode reduces the frequency of valve adjustments while still maintaining a continuous low pressure or alternating low pressure mode. This provides the benefits of reducing pressure-induced injuries while also allowing the patient to sleep with less possible sleep interruptions.

[0044] FIG. 4 is a graph 450 showing an example of pressure settings of the pneumatic system 350 both when the patient is awake and when the patient is sleeping. The x-axis 452 represents time and the y-axis 454 represents pressure in the bladder assembly 358. PT represents a target pressure 460 for the bladders 356 in the mattress 14. PMAXA represents a maximum pressure 462 in one or more bladders 356 of the bladder assembly 358 for operating the pneumatic system 350 when the patient is awake 456. PMINA represents a minimum pressure 466 in one or more bladders 356 of the bladder assembly 358 for operating the pneumatic system 350 when the patient is awake 456. A tolerance band 470 is provided between the maximum pressure 462 and the minimum pressure 466. As long as the pressure in the bladder assembly 358 is maintained within the tolerance band 470 for a corresponding bladder 356 or zone of bladders 356, the air source 352 and the valves 382 of the pneumatic system 350 remain inactive. If the pressure in the bladder assembly 358 exceeds the maximum pressure 462 in a particular zone of bladders 356, the corresponding valve 382 is opened to the second position to release pressure from the particular zone of bladders 356 of the bladder assembly 358 to atmosphere. If the pressure in a particular zone of bladders 356 of the bladder assembly 358 drops below the minimum pressure 466, the corresponding valve is opened to the first position and the air source 352 is activated to increase the pressure in the particular zone of bladders 356 of the bladder assembly 358.

[0045] PMAXS represents a maximum pressure 464 in one or more bladders 356 of the bladder assembly 358 for operating the pneumatic system 350 when the patient is sleeping 458. PMINS represents a minimum pressure 468 in one or more bladders 356 of the bladder assembly 358 for operating the pneumatic system 350 when the patient is sleeping 458. Accordingly, the tolerance band 472 between maximum pressure 464 and the minimum pressure 468 is greater than the tolerance band 470. As such, when the patient is sleeping, the maximum pressure 464 is greater than the maximum pressure 462 and the minimum pressure 468 is less than the minimum pressure 466 so that the pneumatic system 350 is less likely to adjust the pressure in the bladders 356, thereby maintaining a more still mattress 14 and a more quiet environmentAttorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1 because the valve switching noise and air source operating noise is lessened. By allowing the mattress pressure in the mattress 14 for the various zones of bladders 356 to deviate by a wider amount from the target pressure when the patient is sleeping, the patient is less likely to be awakened by the operation of the pneumatic system 350.

[0046] Referring back to FIG. 3, if the head section of deck frame 22 of the patient support apparatus 10 is in a raised position when the patient is determined to be sleeping, the control system, in some embodiments, automatically lowers the head section of the patient support apparatus 10, in response to the control system determining that the patient is sleeping. For example, in some embodiments, the head section of the deck frame 22 is lowered to the flat position relative to the intermediate frame 20. It will be appreciated, that in some embodiments, the foot section that supports the foot support portion 34 of the mattress 14 is also positioned substantially flat or flat relative to the seat section of the deck frame 22, in response to the control system determining that the patient is sleeping. In other embodiments, the head section that supports the head support portion 32 of the mattress is lowered to a slightly angled position that is conducive to sleeping. In some embodiments, the control system also raises siderails 28, 29, 30, 31 of the patient support apparatus 10, in response to the control system determining that the patient is sleeping, to prevent the patient from falling out of the patient support apparatus 10 while sleeping.

[0047] In some embodiments, various attributes of the TV 262, pillow speaker unit 256, lights 232, 234, 260, and / or medical devices, such as one or more of devices 206, of the patient support system 200 are altered or placed in a sleep mode, in response to the control system of bed 10 determining that the patient is sleeping. For example, in some embodiments, the TV 262 and / or pillow speaker unit 256 is turned off, in response to the control system of bed 10 determining that the patient is sleeping. Alternatively or additionally, a volume of the TV 262 and / or pillow speaker unit 256 is lowered or muted, in response to the control system of bed 10 determining that the patient is sleeping. In some embodiments, a brightness of any lights on the TV 262 is dimmed, in response to the control system determining that the patient is sleeping. It will be appreciated that the lights of the TV 262 are completely shut off, in some embodiments.

[0048] In some embodiments, a volume of the device(s) 206 in the room of the sleeping patient is / are lowered or muted, in response to the control system determining that the patient is sleeping. In some embodiments, a brightness of any lights on the device(s) 206 in the room of the sleeping patient is / are dimmed, in response to the control system of the bed 10 determining that the patient is sleeping. It will be appreciated that the lights of the device 206 are completely shut off, in some embodiments. Control of device(s) 206 by bed 10 involves the bed 10 sendingAttorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1 command signals or status signals through the corresponding portions of patient support and communication system 200 to the corresponding device(s) 206. Accordingly, devices 206 are configured to recognize the incoming command or status signals to place the devices 206 into the respective sleep modes. In some embodiments, any of the various lights 232, 234, 260 in the patient room are turned off, in response to the control system of the bed 10 determining that the patient is sleeping. In other embodiments, a brightness of the lights 232, 234, 260 is dimmed, in response to the control system of the bed 10 determining that the patient is sleeping.

[0049] It will be appreciated that the volume or brightness of other various bed behaviors is altered (turned off, or lowered), in response to the control system determining that the patient is sleeping. Such other bed behaviors include alarms and alerts provided by the patient support apparatus 10, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, when the patient is determined to be sleeping, a new data point or sleep notice for display on a dashboard of the staff console 220 and / or on a status board at a master nurse station of the nurse call system is provided to indicate that the respective patient is sleeping. Providing such a notice for display is useful for diagnosis and / or ensuring that the patient is disturbed with less frequency. Accordingly, rounding intervals for sleeping patients may be increased automatically by the nurse call system. The rounding intervals are decreased automatically by the nurse call system in response to status data from the bed 10 indicating that the patient as woken up. Rounding intervals are the time periods at which caregivers are scheduled to visit patients in the rooms of their assigned patients.

[0050] At block 408, the control system determines whether the patient has woken up. In some embodiments, the control system determines that the patient has woken up based on data from at least one of the sensor 100, the head of bed sensor 98, the load cells 320, 322, 324, 326, or any other sensor provided by the patient support apparatus 10 or in the patient support system 200. In some embodiments, the control system of the bed 10 determines that the patient has woken up if the heart rate of the patient, as detected by the sensor 100 rises above a predetermined threshold. For example, the predetermined threshold, in some embodiments, is a heart rate level that generally indicates that a person is awake and active. In some embodiments, the control system determines that the patient has woken up if the respiratory rate of the patient, as detected by the sensor 100 rises above a predetermined threshold. For example, the predetermined threshold, in some embodiments, is a respiratory rate level that generally indicates that a person is awake and active. In some embodiments, the control system determines that the patient is awake if movement of the patient is detected by the sensor 100. It will be appreciated that the control system, in some embodiments, determines that the patient isAttorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1 awake based on a combination of any one or more of patient respiratory rate, patient heart rate, or patient movement. In some embodiments, the control system determines that the patient is awake based on the head of bed sensor 98 determining that the head section of the deck frame 22 of the patient support apparatus 10 has been raised to above a predetermined angle.

[0051] If the control system of bed 10 does not detect that the patient has woken up, at block 410, the patient support apparatus 10 and / or the devices, such as devices 206, 260, 262 in the corresponding patient room, are maintained in the sleep mode. If the control system does detect that the patient has woken up, at block 412, the control system, in some embodiments, returns the patient support apparatus 10 to the previous mode before the patient slept and, optionally, return the devices to the previous mode before the patient slept. In this regard, the states of the various devices in their respective previous modes are stored in memory, such as memory 306, of the bed 10 or in memory of the devices themselves. It will be appreciated that, in some embodiments, no action is taken when the control system determines that the patient has woken up, and either the patient and / or the caregiver is required to return the patient support apparatus 10 and / or the devices to their previous states before the patient slept.

[0052] In some embodiments, the control system of the bed 10 alters the status of at least one of the patient support apparatus 10 or a device in the patient room from the sleep mode to the mode that the patient support apparatus 10 or the device was in before the patient slept. In some embodiments, the control system changes the pressure threshold values of the bladders 356 in the mattress 14, as shown in FIG. 4, so that the air source 352 and the valves 382 of the pneumatic system 350 are operated more frequently to maintain the desired target pressures in the various zones of the mattress 14. In some embodiments, the control system of the bed 10 raises the head section of the deck frame 22 of the patient support apparatus 10, in response to the control system determining that the patient is awake. In some embodiments, the control system also lowers the siderails 28, 29, 30, 31 of the patient support apparatus 10, in response to the control system determining that the patient is awake.

[0053] In some embodiments, various attributes of the devices, such as devices 206, 260, 262, of the patient support and communication system 200 are returned to the mode that they were in before the sleep mode was initiated, in response to the control system determining that the patient is awake. For example, in some embodiments, the TV 262 and / or pillow speaker unit 256 is turned on, a volume of the TV 262 and / or pillow speaker unit 256 is raised, and / or a brightness of the lights on the TV 262 is increased, in response to the control system determining that the patient is awake. In some embodiments, a volume of the device(s) 206 is / are raised and / or a brightness of any lights on the device(s) 206 is / are raised, in response toAttorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1 the control system determining that the patient is awake. In some embodiments, at least some of the various lights 232, 234, 260 are turned on and / or a brightness of the lights is increased, in response to the control system determining that the patient is awake. It will be appreciated that the volume or brightness of the other various bed behaviors is returned to a normal setting, in response to the control system determining that the patient is awake.

[0054] Embodiments of the invention can be described with reference to the following numbered clauses:

[0055] 1. A patient support system for a patient room, the system comprising: a patient support apparatus positioned in the patient room, a patient support surface positioned on the patient support apparatus, the patient support surface including a bladder and a pneumatic system that controls a pressure of the bladder, a sensor located in the patient support apparatus and configured to detect data related to at least one of the patient support apparatus or a patient positioned on the patient support surface, and a control system in communication with the sensor, wherein the sensor determines whether the patient positioned on the patient support surface is sleeping based on the data detected by the sensor, and in response to the sensor determining that the patient positioned on the patient support surface is sleeping, the control system changes pressure threshold values of the bladder so that an air source and valves of the pneumatic system are operated less frequently, dims a graphical user interface lighting of the patient support apparatus, and sends a signal to alter a status of a device in the patient room.

[0056] 2. The system of clause 1 , wherein the sensor includes a sensor that detects at least one of a heart rate or a respiratory rate of the patient.

[0057] 3. The system of clause 2, wherein the sensor determines that the patient is sleeping if at least one of the heart rate or the respiratory rate of the patient falls below a predetermined threshold.

[0058] 4. The system of clause 2, wherein the sensor is positioned below the patient support surface below a torso of the patient.

[0059] 5. The system of clause 1, wherein the sensor includes a movement sensor that detects movement of the patient.

[0060] 6. The system of clause 5, wherein the sensor determines that the patient is sleeping if a measured movement of the patient falls below a predetermined rate.Attorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1

[0061] 7. The system of clause 6, wherein the predetermined rate is measured based on an amount of patient movement over a period of time.

[0062] 8. The system of clause 5, wherein the sensor is positioned below the patient support surface below a torso of the patient.

[0063] 9. The system of clause 1, wherein the sensor is a head of bed sensor that detects an angle of a head end of the patient support apparatus.

[0064] 10. The system of clause 9, wherein the sensor determines that the patient is sleeping based on an angle of the head section of the patient support apparatus.

[0065] 11. The system of clause 10, wherein the sensor determines that the patient is sleeping if the head section of the patient support apparatus is lowered to below a predetermined angle relative to a torso section of the patient support apparatus.

[0066] 12. The system of clause 1, wherein the control system lowers a head section of the patient support apparatus, in response to the sensor determining that the patient is sleeping.

[0067] 13. The system of clause 12, wherein, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system returns the head section of the patient support apparatus to an original position.

[0068] 14. The system of clause 1, wherein the control system raises siderails of the patient support apparatus, in response to the sensor determining that the patient is sleeping.

[0069] 15. The system of clause 14, wherein, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system returns the siderails of the patient support apparatus to an original position.

[0070] 16. The system of clause 1, wherein, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system changes the pressure threshold values of the bladder so that the air source and valves of the pneumatic system are operated more frequently.

[0071] 17. The system of clause 1, wherein the control system alters a status of the device in the patient room by turning the device off.

[0072] 18. The system of clause 17, wherein, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system turns the device back on.

[0073] 19. The system of clause 1, wherein the control system alters a status of the device in the patient room by muting the device.

[0074] 20. The system of clause 19, wherein, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system unmutes the device.Attorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1

[0075] 21. The system of clause 1 , wherein the control system alters a status of the device in the patient room by lowering a volume of the device.

[0076] 22. The system of clause 21, wherein, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system returns the volume of the device to an original level.

[0077] 23. The system of clause 1, wherein the control system alters a status of the device in the patient room by dimming a light of the device.

[0078] 24. The system of clause 23, wherein, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system returns the light of the device to an original level.

[0079] 25. A method of controlling a patient support system in a patient room, the method comprising: detecting, using a sensor, data related to at least one of a patient support apparatus or a patient positioned on a patient support surface of the patient support apparatus, and determining whether the patient positioned on the patient support surface is sleeping based on the data detected by the sensor, and in response to the sensor determining that the patient positioned on the patient support surface is sleeping, changing pressure threshold values of a bladder of the patient support surface so that an air source and valves of a pneumatic system of the patient support surface are operated less frequently, dimming a graphical user interface lighting of the patient support apparatus, and sending a signal to alter a status of a device in the patient room.

[0080] 26. The method of clause 25, further comprising positioning the sensor below the patient support surface below a torso of the patient.

[0081] 27. The method of clause 25, further comprising detecting at least one of a heart rate or a respiratory rate of the patient.

[0082] 28. The method of clause 26, further comprising determining that the patient is sleeping if at least one of the heart rate or the respiratory rate of the patient falls below a predetermined threshold.

[0083] 29. The method of clause 25, further comprising detecting movement of the patient.

[0084] 30. The method of clause 29, further comprising determining that the patient is sleeping if a measured movement of the patient falls below a predetermined rate.

[0085] 31. The method of clause 30, further comprising measuring the predetermined rate based on an amount of patient movement over a period of time.Attorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1

[0086] 32. The method of clause 25, further comprising detecting an angle of a head end of the patient support apparatus.

[0087] 33. The method of clause 32, further comprising determining that the patient is sleeping based on an angle of the head section of the patient support apparatus.

[0088] 34. The method of clause 33, further comprising determining that the patient is sleeping if the head section of the patient support apparatus is lowered to below a predetermined angle relative to a torso section of the patient support apparatus.

[0089] 35. The method of clause 26, further comprising lowering a head section of the patient support apparatus, in response to the sensor determining that the patient is sleeping.

[0090] 36. The method of clause 35, further comprising, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, returning the head section of the patient support apparatus to an original position.

[0091] 37. The method of clause 25, further comprising raising siderails of the patient support apparatus, in response to the sensor determining that the patient is sleeping.

[0092] 38. The method of clause 37, further comprising, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, returning the siderails of the patient support apparatus to an original position.

[0093] 39. The method of clause 25, further comprising, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, changing the pressure threshold values of a bladder of the patient support surface so that the air source and valves of the pneumatic system are operated more frequently.

[0094] 40. The method of clause 25, further comprising altering a status of the device in the patient room by turning the device off.

[0095] 41. The method of clause 40, further comprising, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, turning the device back on.

[0096] 42. The method of clause 25, further comprising altering a status of the device in the patient room by muting the device.

[0097] 43. The method of clause 42, further comprising, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, unmuting the device.

[0098] 44. The method of clause 25, further comprising altering a status of the device in the patient room by lowering a volume of the device.

[0099] 45. The method of clause 44, further comprising, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, returning the volume of the device to an original level.Attorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1

[0100] 46. The method of clause 25, further comprising altering a status of the device in the patient room by dimming a light of the device.

[0101] 47. The method of clause 46, further comprising, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, returning the light of the device to an original level.

[0102] 48. A patient support apparatus comprising: a patient support surface having at least one inflatable bladder, a sensor position on the patient support surface below a torso of a patient lying on the patient support surface, the sensor configured to detect at least one of a heart rate or a respiratory rate of the patient, and a control system in communication with the sensor, wherein the sensor determines whether the patient is sleeping based on at least one of the heart rate or the respiratory rate of the patient, and in response to the sensor determining that the patient is sleeping, the control system adjusts the at least one inflatable bladder to a sleep mode position.

[0103] 49. The patient support apparatus of clause 48, wherein the sensor is a piezoelectric sensor.

[0104] 50. The patient support apparatus of clause 48, wherein the sensor determines that the patient is sleeping if at least one of the heart rate or the respiratory rate of the patient falls below a predetermined threshold.

[0105] 51. The patient support apparatus of clause 48, wherein the sensor determines that the patient is sleeping if a measured movement of the patient falls below a predetermined rate.

[0106] 52. The patient support apparatus of clause 48, wherein the sensor is positioned below the patient support surface below a torso of the patient.

[0107] Any theory, mechanism of operation, proof, or finding stated herein is meant to further enhance understanding of principles of the present disclosure and is not intended to make the present disclosure in any way dependent upon such theory, mechanism of operation, illustrative embodiment, proof, or finding. It should be understood that while the use of the word preferable, preferably or preferred in the description above indicates that the feature so described can be more desirable, it nonetheless cannot be necessary and embodiments lacking the same can be contemplated as within the scope of the disclosure, that scope being defined by the claims that follow.

[0108] In reading the claims it is intended that when words such as "a," "an," "at least one," "at least a portion" are used there is no intention to limit the claim to only one item unlessAttorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1 specifically stated to the contrary in the claim. When the language "at least a portion" and / or "a portion" is used, the item can include a portion and / or the entire item unless specifically stated to the contrary.

[0109] It should be understood that only selected embodiments have been shown and described and that all possible alternatives, modifications, aspects, combinations, principles, variations, and equivalents that come within the spirit of the disclosure as defined herein or by any of the following claims are desired to be protected. While embodiments of the disclosure have been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same are to be considered as illustrative and not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Additional alternatives, modifications and variations can be apparent to those skilled in the art. Also, while multiple inventive aspects and principles have been presented, they need not be utilized in combination, and many combinations of aspects and principles are possible in light of the various embodiments provided above.

Claims

Attorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1WHAT IS CLAIMED IS1. A patient support system for a patient room, the system comprising: a patient support apparatus positioned in the patient room, a patient support surface positioned on the patient support apparatus, the patient support surface including a bladder and a pneumatic system that controls a pressure of the bladder, a sensor located in the patient support apparatus and configured to detect data related to at least one of the patient support apparatus or a patient positioned on the patient support surface, and a control system in communication with the sensor, wherein the sensor determines whether the patient positioned on the patient support surface is sleeping based on the data detected by the sensor, and in response to the sensor determining that the patient positioned on the patient support surface is sleeping, the control system changes pressure threshold values of the bladder so that an air source and valves of the pneumatic system are operated less frequently, dims a graphical user interface lighting of the patient support apparatus, and sends a signal to alter a status of a device in the patient room.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the sensor includes a sensor that detects at least one of a heart rate or a respiratory rate of the patient.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the sensor determines that the patient is sleeping if at least one of the heart rate or the respiratory rate of the patient falls below a predetermined threshold.

4. The system of claim 2, wherein the sensor is positioned below the patient support surface below a torso of the patient.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensor includes a movement sensor that detects movement of the patient.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the sensor determines that the patient is sleeping if a measured movement of the patient falls below a predetermined rate.Attorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU17. The system of claim 6, wherein the predetermined rate is measured based on an amount of patient movement over a period of time.

8. The system of claim 5, wherein the sensor is positioned below the patient support surface below a torso of the patient.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the sensor is a head of bed sensor that detects an angle of a head end of the patient support apparatus.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the sensor determines that the patient is sleeping based on an angle of the head section of the patient support apparatus.1 1. The system of claim 10, wherein the sensor determines that the patient is sleeping if the head section of the patient support apparatus is lowered to below a predetermined angle relative to a torso section of the patient support apparatus.

12. The system of claim 1 , wherein the control system lowers a head section of the patient support apparatus, in response to the sensor determining that the patient is sleeping.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system returns the head section of the patient support apparatus to an original position.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the control system raises siderails of the patient support apparatus, in response to the sensor determining that the patient is sleeping.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system returns the siderails of the patient support apparatus to an original position.

16. The system of claim 1, wherein, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system changes the pressure threshold values of the bladder so that the air source and valves of the pneumatic system are operated more frequently.Attorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU117. The system of claim 1, wherein the control system alters a status of the device in the patient room by turning the device off.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system turns the device back on.

19. The system of claim 1, wherein the control system alters a status of the device in the patient room by muting the device.

20. The system of claim 19, wherein, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system unmutes the device.21 . The system of claim 1 , wherein the control system alters a status of the device in the patient room by lowering a volume of the device.

22. The system of claim 21, wherein, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system returns the volume of the device to an original level.

23. The system of claim 1, wherein the control system alters a status of the device in the patient room by dimming a light of the device.

24. The system of claim 23, wherein, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, the control system returns the light of the device to an original level.

25. A method of controlling a patient support system in a patient room, the method comprising: detecting, using a sensor, data related to at least one of a patient support apparatus or a patient positioned on a patient support surface of the patient support apparatus, and determining whether the patient positioned on the patient support surface is sleeping based on the data detected by the sensor, and in response to the sensor determining that the patient positioned on the patient support surface is sleeping, changing pressure threshold values of a bladder of the patient support surface so that an air source and valves of a pneumatic system of the patient support surface areAttorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU1 operated less frequently, dimming a graphical user interface lighting of the patient support apparatus, and sending a signal to alter a status of a device in the patient room.

26. The method of claim 25, further comprising positioning the sensor below the patient support surface below a torso of the patient.

27. The method of claim 25, further comprising detecting at least one of a heart rate or a respiratory rate of the patient.

28. The method of claim 26, further comprising determining that the patient is sleeping if at least one of the heart rate or the respiratory rate of the patient falls below a predetermined threshold.

29. The method of claim 25, further comprising detecting movement of the patient.

30. The method of claim 29. further comprising determining that the patient is sleeping if a measured movement of the patient falls below a predetermined rate.

31. The method of claim 30, further comprising measuring the predetermined rate based on an amount of patient movement over a period of time.

32. The method of claim 25, further comprising detecting an angle of a head end of the patient support apparatus.

33. The method of claim 32, further comprising determining that the patient is sleeping based on an angle of the head section of the patient support apparatus.

34. The method of claim 33, further comprising determining that the patient is sleeping if the head section of the patient support apparatus is lowered to below a predetermined angle relative to a torso section of the patient support apparatus.

35. The method of claim 26, further comprising lowering a head section of the patient support apparatus, in response to the sensor determining that the patient is sleeping.Attorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU136. The method of claim 35, further comprising, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, returning the head section of the patient support apparatus to an original position.

37. The method of claim 25, further comprising raising siderails of the patient support apparatus, in response to the sensor determining that the patient is sleeping.

38. The method of claim 37, further comprising, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, returning the siderails of the patient support apparatus to an original position.

39. The method of claim 25, further comprising, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, changing the pressure threshold values of a bladder of the patient support surface so that the air source and valves of the pneumatic system are operated more frequently.

40. The method of claim 25, further comprising altering a status of the device in the patient room by turning the device off.

41. The method of claim 40, further comprising, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, turning the device back on.

42. The method of claim 25, further comprising altering a status of the device in the patient room by muting the device.

43. The method of claim 42, further comprising, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, unmuting the device.

44. The method of claim 25, further comprising altering a status of the device in the patient room by lowering a volume of the device.

45. The method of claim 44, further comprising, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, returning the volume of the device to an original level.Attorney Docket: 7175-434710Client Reference: 12629.WOU146. The method of claim 25, further comprising altering a status of the device in the patient room by dimming a light of the device.

47. The method of claim 46, further comprising, in response to the sensor determining that the patient has awakened, returning the light of the device to an original level.

48. A patient support apparatus comprising: a patient support surface having at least one inflatable bladder, a sensor position on the patient support surface below a torso of a patient lying on the patient support surface, the sensor configured to detect at least one of a heart rate or a respiratory rate of the patient, and a control system in communication with the sensor, wherein the sensor determines whether the patient is sleeping based on at least one of the heart rate or the respiratory rate of the patient, and in response to the sensor determining that the patient is sleeping, the control system adjusts the at least one inflatable bladder to a sleep mode position.

49. The patient support apparatus of claim 48, wherein the sensor is a piezoelectric sensor.

50. The patient support apparatus of claim 48, wherein the sensor determines that the patient is sleeping if at least one of the heart rate or the respiratory rate of the patient falls below a predetermined threshold.

51. The patient support apparatus of claim 48, wherein the sensor determines that the patient is sleeping if a measured movement of the patient falls below a predetermined rate.

52. The patient support apparatus of claim 48, wherein the sensor is positioned below the patient support surface below a torso of the patient.

Images