Urinary Catheter Drainage Bag Coupling Clip for Stable Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for securing urinary catheter drainage bags are non-standard and can lead to catheter displacement, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections and trauma, especially for patients with limited mobility.
Innovation Solution
A urinary catheter drainage bag coupling device featuring a clip with spring-biased arms that can be opened and closed to securely attach to a patient's gown or other objects, using resilient materials and interlocking teeth for a firm grip, along with a tether for additional attachment options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If drainage bags are hung using non-standard methods (tie tourniquets, disposable gloves, IV poles), then providers can temporarily secure the bag, but catheter displacement and trauma risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is divided into separate functional components: a clip assembly for securing the bag, a tether for attachment to the patient or bed, and a drainage tube. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to provide reliable attachment without compromising catheter stability
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device acts as an intermediary between the drainage bag and the patient/bed. Instead of directly attaching the bag to the patient (which could cause displacement), the device provides a standardized interface that secures the bag while maintaining catheter position through proper tensioning and attachment points
2Shape
If drainage bags are hung on IV poles or walkers, then bags can be positioned, but backflushing into the bladder may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is designed to maintain the drainage bag at a consistent, appropriate height relative to the patient's bladder level. The tether and clip mechanism ensure the bag remains positioned to prevent backflushing while allowing for easy adjustment and consistent positioning throughout the patient's stay
3Reliability
If standard coupling devices are used, then consistent attachment can be achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional elements are merged into a single integrated coupling device: the clip assembly combines the clamping mechanism with the tether attachment, and the entire assembly is designed as a disposable unit that simplifies the overall system. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed while maintaining reliable attachment consistency
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 provides a flexible, easy-to-use, and safe means to maintain catheter drainage bags at an appropriate level, reducing the risk of catheter displacement and infections by ensuring consistent attachment, even during patient mobility.
Implementation Method 1
The first distal portion and the second distal portion are configured to be biased toward a closed position by a spring force and urgable toward an opened position
Implementation Method 2
The first arm and the second arm are resiliently deformable to create the spring force
Data Source
AI summary
Various implementations include a urinary catheter drainage bag coupling device that includes a clip configured to removably secure a urinary catheter drainage bag to a surface. The clip includes a first arm and a second arm. The first arm has a first proximal portion and a first distal portion spaced apart from the first proximal portion. The second arm has a second proximal portion and a second distal portion spaced apart from the second proximal portion. The first and second proximal portions are coupled to each other. The first and second distal portions are configured to be biased toward a closed position by a spring force and urgable toward an opened position. In use, the first and second distal ends are closer to each other in the closed position than in the opened position. In various implementations. the device further includes a tether.