Bedside Portal for Stationary Patient Data Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
In hospital environments, particularly in intensive care units, the effectiveness of patient care computing devices like 'workstations on wheels' is hindered by obstructions that prevent healthcare providers from positioning them proximate to patients, disrupting contemporaneous data entry and observation.
Innovation Solution
An electronic medical record system featuring a medical database system, a patient care computing device, and a stationary, room-based terminal that duplicates and communicates patient data, allowing seamless electronic record keeping and data entry at the bedside, even when the computing device cannot be brought close to the patient.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a workstation on wheels (WOW) is used for patient care computing, then mobility and data entry capability are improved, but the ability to position the device proximate to the patient is worsened due to obstructions from medical equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the computing functionality into two separate components: a WOW for data entry and a stationary bedside terminal for display. This segmentation allows each component to be optimally positioned - the WOW can be used by the provider anywhere in the room while the terminal remains fixed at the bedside, resolving the contradiction between mobility and positioning proximity.
Solution Approach 2:
The stationary bedside terminal acts as an intermediary between the WOW and the patient. It receives data from the WOW via wireless communication and displays it at the bedside, enabling the provider to enter data remotely while ensuring information is available proximate to the patient without physical obstruction.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the WOW is parked away from the patient in an adjoining hall, then obstruction from medical equipment is avoided, but contemporaneous interaction with the WOW is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The stationary bedside terminal serves as a mediator that bridges the gap between the provider and patient. The provider can remain at the bedside without obstruction while the terminal displays patient information and allows interaction, eliminating the need to park the WOW away and preserving contemporaneous data entry.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a copy of the WOW's display functionality at the stationary bedside terminal. This duplicate interface allows the provider to interact with patient data at the bedside without the physical constraints of the mobile device, maintaining contemporaneous interaction while avoiding equipment obstructions.
3Area of stationary object
If a fixed workstation is installed in each patient room, then ready access to patient data is improved, but the ability to move between patients is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The stationary bedside terminal provides universal access to patient data for all patients in the room, while the WOW provides mobile access for providers moving between patients. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by serving both stationary and mobile needs simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments functionality between the fixed terminal (for local patient data access) and the mobile WOW ( for provider mobility). This allows providers to maintain mobility between patients while having ready access to data through the stationary terminal when needed at the bedside.
Data Source
AI summary
A room-based terminal near the patient's bedside is used to supplement the operation of a patient care computing device to improve contemporaneous data capture and information accessibility during a healthcare provider's rounds. The particular benefits of the stationary terminal and patient care computing device augment each other in providing superior workflow.