One-Handed Catheter Patch Applicator Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing catheter patch application methods require the use of both hands, increasing the risk of contamination at the insertion site due to the need for fingers to hold and apply dressings, which is not efficient for varied device sizes and complicates the prevention of infection.
Innovation Solution
A one-handed catheter patch applicator assembly with an upper and lower arm hinged together, featuring a tacky layer with a securing mechanism and ergonomic design that allows for secure application without direct hand contact with the insertion site, using retaining posts and a breathable antimicrobial layer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If both hands are used to hold and apply the dressing, then the application is more stable and controlled, but the risk of contamination at the insertion site increases due to direct hand contact
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator device serves as an intermediary tool between the user's hands and the sterile insertion site. The hands manipulate the applicator, which in turn applies the patch, preventing direct contact with the sterile field while maintaining application control
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator is designed to be self-contained with the patch pre-attached and pre-positioned. The device allows single-handed operation where the user's hand remains outside the sterile field while the applicator performs the application function independently
2Manufacturing precision
If fingers are placed near the insertion site to hold and apply the dressing, then the patch can be positioned accurately, but the likelihood of contamination increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator acts as a mediator that transfers the patch to the insertion site without requiring fingers to enter the sterile field. The device maintains precise positioning capability while keeping the user's hands at a safe distance from contamination risk
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the non-sterile handling function (held by user's hand) from the sterile application function (performed at insertion site). The applicator structure divides the patch application process into distinct zones: handling zone and application zone
3Duration of action of stationary object
If repeated dressing changes are performed for long-term catheterization, then the insertion site can be monitored and maintained, but each change creates an opportunity for bacterial infection or foreign contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator is designed as a disposable single-use device that is discarded after one application. This eliminates the need to sterilize and reuse the applicator, ensuring each application tool is inherently sterile and reducing cross-contamination risk between multiple dressing changes
Solution Approach 2:
The single-use applicator serves as a sterile intermediary for each dressing change event, allowing long-term catheter care while minimizing infection risk through disposable sterile barriers
Data Source
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AI summary
In accordance with aspects of the present invention, an applicator assembly suitable for application of a catheter patch with one hand comprises an upper arm with a proximal end and a distal portion, a lower arm with a proximal end and a distal portion, and a hinge member fixedly joining the proximal ends of the upper arm and the lower arm, wherein an upper surface of the upper arm distal portion abuts a lower surface of the lower arm distal portion. In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a catheter patch assembly may be secured against a lower surface of the upper arm distal portion. The distal portion of the lower arm may include a securing mechanism for securing the catheter patch assembly to the applicator assembly. A method of applying a catheter patch is provided.