Patient Support Systems And Methods For Assisting Caregivers With Patient Care
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional patient support systems lack the ability to control the rate of operation of actuatable devices, which can be too fast for patients with skin lesions and too slow for other conditions, posing challenges in patient care.
Innovation Solution
A patient support system with a controller that adjusts the rate of operation of actuatable devices based on patient conditions, using a combination of user input devices and sensors to ensure appropriate movement rates, including voice actuation and patient-specific settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a default rate of operation is used for actuatable devices, then the system is simple to operate, but the rate may be too fast for patients with skin lesions or too slow for other conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the rate of operation of actuatable devices based on real-time patient condition data. The controller receives input from sensors monitoring patient parameters and automatically modifies actuator speed, transforming a static default rate system into a dynamic adaptive system that responds to changing patient needs without requiring manual reconfiguration
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameter (rate of operation) of actuatable devices based on patient condition. By monitoring patient parameters such as skin condition, mobility status, and vital signs, the controller adjusts the speed and duration of actuator operations to match specific patient requirements, enabling tailored care while maintaining system simplicity through automated parameter modification
2Ease of operation
If the caregiver continuously depresses the button to perform the function, then the function can be controlled, but the operation becomes tedious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-adjustment of the actuator operation rate based on patient condition monitoring. Once the caregiver initiates a function, the controller automatically manages the operation parameters, duration, and pacing without requiring continuous manual input. The system serves itself by using sensor data to determine when and how to complete the function, freeing the caregiver from tedious continuous button depression
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback loops where sensors continuously monitor patient condition during actuator operation and provide real-time data to the controller. The controller uses this feedback to automatically adjust the operation rate and determine when the function should complete, creating a closed-loop system that responds to patient needs without requiring continuous caregiver intervention or time-consuming manual control
Data Source
AI summary
A patient support system comprises a patient support apparatus for patients. The patient support apparatus also comprises an actuatable device that perform one or more predetermined functions on the patient support apparatus. A controller is provided to control the rate of operation of the actuatable devices based on a user input or a patient condition.