Annular Indicator Tubing for Fluid Administration Error Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluid administration systems in healthcare settings face challenges with errors due to incorrect fluid delivery, as existing identification methods, such as coded tubing and visual indicators, may not provide sufficient detail to ensure the correct fluid is administered to the right access site, leading to potential misconnections and incorrect dosages, especially in environments with multiple users and interruptions.
Innovation Solution
A coding system featuring an elongated tube with annular features at both ends, a reference chart, and tubing accessories with visual and tactile indicators, allowing users to quickly verify the correct fluid-tube combination by focusing on the tube ends, even in dimly lit environments, thereby reducing the likelihood of errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If longitudinal visual indicators are used along the full length of the tubing, then the tubing can be identified, but it becomes difficult to ensure correct tubing usage and requires additional time to inspect the full length
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the identification function from the entire length of the tubing and concentrates it at specific locations (ends or segments). Instead of having indicators along the full length, the invention places distinct visual indicators only at the ends or specific segments of the tubing, allowing users to verify correctness by inspecting only these localized areas rather than the entire tubing length.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different identification characteristics to different locations of the tubing. The ends or specific segments have distinct visual indicators (such as colored bands, patterns, or tactile features) that differ from the rest of the tubing. This local differentiation allows users to quickly identify the correct tubing by examining only the indicator-bearing locations.
2Reliability
If multiple identification features are incorporated into the tubing system, then fluid administration errors are reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple identification features into a unified system where visual indicators (colored bands, patterns) and tactile indicators (raised features, grooves) are integrated at the same locations on the tubing. This merging of features at localized positions provides redundant verification without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces reference charts as intermediary tools that link the visual and tactile indicators on the tubing to the appropriate fluid containers and administration protocols. These reference charts serve as a mediation layer that organizes the identification system, making it easier to use without adding physical complexity to the tubing itself.
3Reliability
If users must inspect the full length of tubing to confirm correct connections, then identification accuracy is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the verification function from the entire tubing length and concentrates it at the ends or specific segments where distinct visual indicators are placed. Users can confirm correct tubing selection and connection by inspecting only these indicator locations rather than examining the full length of the tubing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent places identification indicators at the ends of the tubing before the user begins the connection process. This preliminary positioning of visual cues allows users to verify the correct tubing is selected before handling or connecting it, streamlining the workflow by eliminating the need for post-connection inspection of the entire tubing length.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for guiding a user in administration of a fluid to a subject are described herein. The fluid, which may contain medication, is introduced to the subject by an elongated tube with visual, tactile, or both visual and tactile indicators disposed near the distal and/or proximal ends of the elongated tube, the indicators meant to ensure the correct fluid enters the correct elongated tube and is delivered to the subject. A reference chart with tubing information and tubing accessories may also be used to further ensure that the correct fluid enters the correct elongated tube.