Multi-Layered Patient Transport Device for Skin Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing patient transport and repositioning devices cause skin breakdown due to high friction, air and vapor permeability, and inadequate fluid management, leading to ergonomic challenges and delays in care, particularly for bariatric patients.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layered patient transport device with a permeable first layer, a hydrophilic spacer layer for air flow, an absorbent layer for fluid management, and coupling members for secure attachment, along with an air mover to regulate humidity and an inflatable member for alternating pressure support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a transport device is constructed with high friction material to provide grip and support, then the device can effectively support and move patients, but the high friction causes skin breakdown and discomfort after extended exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The transport device is divided into multiple functional layers: a support layer for structural strength and patient support, a barrier layer to prevent direct skin contact with high-friction materials, and a low-friction contact layer that reduces skin damage. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function without the harmful effects of high friction on patient skin.
Solution Approach 2:
A low-friction intermediate layer is introduced between the high-friction support structure and the patient's skin. This intermediary layer provides the necessary support and grip while preventing direct skin contact with materials that cause friction burns and skin breakdown during extended use.
2Loss of time
If the transport device is left underneath the patient when not in use for quick access, then caregiver time for locating devices is reduced, but the device causes skin breakdown due to high friction and poor permeability
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a multi-layer structure with a low-friction patient contact layer and a breathable barrier layer that can remain in contact with skin without causing damage. This segmentation allows the device to be left in place under patients for extended periods while preventing skin breakdown, enabling quick reuse without removal and repositioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport device incorporates porous, breathable materials that allow air and vapor permeability, preventing moisture buildup and skin maceration. These porous layers maintain skin health during extended contact, allowing the device to remain positioned under patients without causing friction burns or skin breakdown.
3Quantity of substance
If traditional absorptive pads are used to manage body fluids, then fluid absorption is achieved, but the pads require periodic changing and do not actively manage humidity at the skin interface
Solution Approach 1:
An active humidity management layer is introduced as an intermediary between the patient's skin and the absorptive padding. This layer actively regulates moisture and vapor transfer, preventing excessive humidity buildup at the skin interface while the absorptive layer manages bulk fluid. This dual-layer approach reduces the frequency of changes needed compared to passive absorptive pads alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates materials and mechanisms that dynamically adjust moisture and vapor permeability parameters in response to patient needs. This active parameter management optimizes humidity control at the skin interface, reducing fluid accumulation and extending the time between required pad changes while maintaining skin health.
4Ease of operation
If bariatric patients are repositioned using traditional devices, then transport is achieved, but the process requires multiple manipulations that increase caregiver strain and risk of injury
Solution Approach 1:
The transport device combines multiple functions into a single integrated system: the device provides patient support, friction reduction, humidity management, and fluid absorption all in one unit. This merging eliminates the need to use separate devices for different functions, reducing the number of manipulation steps required during repositioning and decreasing caregiver strain.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport device is designed as a universal, multi-functional system that can handle various patient positions and weights while providing consistent support and skin protection. This multi-functionality allows a single device type to be used across different repositioning scenarios, reducing the complexity of selecting and manipulating multiple specialized devices.
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
The device allows extended use without skin damage, reduces fluid accumulation, and provides ergonomic benefits by maintaining a stable moisture transfer rate and supporting patient weight, thereby reducing caregiver strain and skin complications.
Implementation Method 1
an air mover to regulate humidity
Implementation Method 2
a hydrophilic spacer layer for air flow
Implementation Method 3
an absorbent layer for fluid management
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
A device and method for transporting or repositioning a patient. The device comprises an air mover; a multi-layered body comprising a layer that is permeable to fluids, an layer comprising a spacer material, with which the air mover is in fluid communication, and a layer having a tensile strength sufficient to support the weight of a patient being lifted by the patient transport device. The device further comprises a plurality of coupling members coupled to the multi- layered body. In certain embodiments, the device comprises a further layer comprising a fluid-absorbent material.