Defibrillator Barcode Reader for Automated Patient Data Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical treatment documentation during emergencies, especially cardiac-related events, is inefficient due to the need for manual data entry by paramedics, which is time-consuming and prone to errors, and lacks real-time data capture of critical information such as drug administration and equipment details.
Innovation Solution
A monitor defibrillator equipped with a barcode reader (BCR) or optical character reader (OCR) module that allows for quick and accurate data entry of patient and equipment information, reducing the effort required for documentation and minimizing errors by automatically timestamping events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual data entry is used for documenting patient care records, then paramedics can capture all necessary information, but the process is time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical data entry with an automated optical character recognition (OCR) system. The OCR module captures images of handwritten or printed information and automatically converts them into machine-readable text, eliminating the need for paramedics to manually type or enter data into the patient care record system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service documentation by allowing the patient care record system to automatically capture and process information directly from the scene. The OCR module automatically reads and transcribes information without requiring paramedic intervention for data entry, making the system self-sufficient in the documentation process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional data collection devices are brought to the scene, then more information can be captured, but the equipment increases complexity and distracts from rescue activities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the data collection functionality directly into the existing defibrillator monitor system. The optical image sensor and OCR module are integrated into the monitor, combining patient monitoring and automated data capture into a single device, eliminating the need for separate data collection equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The defibrillator monitor is enhanced with multi-functionality by adding optical imaging and OCR capabilities. This universal device can now perform both its original cardiac monitoring function and automated data capture, reducing the overall equipment burden on paramedics while increasing data collection capability.
3Reliability
If real-time data capture is implemented, then accuracy of timing and events is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically timestamps events and captures data in real-time as they occur during the medical emergency. The optical image sensor continuously captures images and the OCR module processes them immediately, preparing the data for integration into the patient care record without requiring post-event documentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time feedback by displaying captured images and transcribed text on the monitor screen, allowing immediate verification of data accuracy. This feedback mechanism ensures that timing and event information are recorded with high fidelity while providing operators with control over the process.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables paramedics to document patient care records more efficiently, reducing the time spent on data entry and improving accuracy, ensuring compliance with regulations and enhancing the fidelity of medical records for quality assurance and billing purposes.
Implementation Method 1
an optical image sensor that is configured as a barcode reader (BCR) module or optical character reader (OCR) module
Data Source
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AI summary
A monitor/defibrillator (100) is described having an optical image sensor (114) such as a barcode reader or an optical character reader for accurate and timely entry of information during a medical treatment event. The barcode reader or optical character reader enables a one-step capture of patient identifying information, administered therapeutic substances, equipment and other event information. The information is decoded by the monitor/defibrillator and entered into system memory for later use.