APPARATUSES FOR SUPPORTING AND MONITORING A PERSON
Embodiments disclosed herein related to person support apparatuses and systems, and in particular, to such apparatuses and systems that incorporate or are used with vital signs monitoring devices.
This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/581,951, filed Oct. 20, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,281,433, which claims the benefit, under 35 U.S.C. §119(e), of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/108,485 which was filed Oct. 24, 2008 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/112,002 which was filed Nov. 6, 2008, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety herein.
BACKGROUNDThe present disclosure relates to person support apparatuses such as hospital beds that are used in healthcare facilities such as hospitals and nursing homes. In particular, the present disclosure relates to patient support apparatuses that incorporate or are used with physiological monitoring devices.
Person support apparatuses can comprise beds, chairs, stretchers, seats, mattresses, therapy surfaces, furniture, and the like, or other apparatuses that support a person. Hospital beds and stretchers, hospital mattresses, and wheelchairs are examples of such apparatuses that support persons in healthcare facilities. Consumer beds, chairs, and furniture are also examples of such person support apparatuses, as are seats for vehicles, businesses, and venues.
Vital signs monitors can monitor one or more physiological parameters of a person, such as body temperature, pulse rate, heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate, as well as other body signs, such as end-tidal CO2, SpO2 (saturation of oxygen in arterial blood flow), and other indicators of the person's physiological state.
There is a persistent need for further contributions and improvements in these areas of technology.
SUMMARYThe present invention comprises one or more of the features recited in the appended claims and/or the following features which, alone or in any combination, may comprise patentable subject matter:
An apparatus for supporting and contactless monitoring of a person may comprise a bedframe and a mattress support deck coupled to the bed frame. The mattress support deck may include a head deck section that is movable between a raised position and a lowered position and that is configured to support the person's upper body. The apparatus may further comprise a sensing device fixed to the head deck section and configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of the person. A processor may be coupled to the bedframe and may be configured to receive the monitoring signal.
The sensing device may be embedded in the head deck section. In some embodiment, the head deck section may be molded around the sensing device so as to completely encase the sensing device. The sensing device may comprise a piezoelectric element that is placed under stress by stressed that is induced in the head deck section during a molding process. Alternatively or additionally, the sensing device may comprise a housing and a piezoelectric diaphragm member in a stressed state within the housing.
A second sensing device may be fixed to the bedframe and may be configured to sense at least one physiological sign of the person. The mattress support deck may comprises a seat deck section adjacent the head deck section and the apparatus may further comprise a second sensing device fixed to the seat deck section and configured to sense at least one physiological sign of the person.
In some embodiments, the head deck section may have a substantially non-planar in shape. For example, the head deck section may have a generally parabolic shape. Thus, the head deck section may be curved along its length and along its width.
The apparatus may further comprise a waveguide coupled to the sensing device and configured to transmit energy to the sensing device. The waveguide may comprise at least one of the following: a beam member, a wire member, and a strip member. The sensing device may comprise an array of spaced apart piezoelectric sensor devices.
The head deck section may have a first side edge and a second side edge and the sensing device may be located about midway between the first and second side edges. Therefore, the sensing device may be fixed to the head deck section at a central region of the head deck section.
Also according to this disclosure, a patient support surface may comprise a cover defining an interior region, a support layer situated in the interior region, a first sensing device situated in the interior region above the support layer, and a second sensing device situated in the interior region beneath the support layer. The first and second sensors may be configured to provide at least one monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a patient atop the patient support surface.
The support layer may comprise at least one air bladder. The at least one air bladder may, in turn, comprise a turn bladder that is inflated to turn a patient toward one of the patient's sides. According to this disclosure, at least one air bladder in the interior region may overlie the support layer and the first and second sensing devices. A processor assembly may be located inside the interior region and may be electrically coupled to the first and second sensing devices.
In one embodiment, an apparatus for supporting and contactless monitoring of a person is provided. The apparatus comprises a person support apparatus, a sensing device coupled to the person support apparatus and a processor coupled to the person support apparatus. The sensing device is configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the person support apparatus without contacting the person. The processor is configured to receive the monitoring signal and to determine a physiological sign of the person based upon at least the monitoring signal. In one embodiment, the sensing device is coupled by integral formation within a member of the person support apparatus, such as a deck member or frame member for example. In one embodiment, the processor is housed in an electronics housing attached to the person support apparatus. In one embodiment, the processor detects heart rate and the processor determines the onset of an adverse heart episode based upon at least the heart rate.
In another embodiment, an apparatus is provided for supporting and contactless monitoring of a person. The apparatus comprises a person support apparatus having a deck section configured such that at least a portion of a person may be placed directly or indirectly on the deck section. The apparatus further comprises a sensing device coupled to the deck section of the person support apparatus. The sensing device is configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the person support apparatus without contacting the person.
According to another embodiment, the apparatus comprises a person support apparatus having a torso deck section (sometimes referred to as a head deck section or just a head section) configured such that at least a portion of a person's torso may be placed directly or indirectly on the torso deck section. The person support apparatus further includes a seat deck section configured such that at least a portion of a person's seat area may be placed directly or indirectly on the seat deck section. The apparatus further comprises a first sensing device coupled to the torso deck section of the person support apparatus. The first sensing device is configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the person support apparatus without contacting the person. A second sensing device is coupled to the seat deck section of the person support apparatus and configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the person support apparatus without contacting the person. The first and second sensing devices can be embedded within their respective deck sections, if desired.
The apparatus may further comprise, in some embodiments, a processor coupled to the person support apparatus and configured to receive the monitoring signal and determine the onset of a physiological episode based upon the monitoring signal. In some embodiments, the episode comprises at least one of a heart attack, congestive heart failure, endocarditis, myocarditis, coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, asthma, cystic fibrosis (CF), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
In yet another embodiment, the apparatus comprises a deck section with a substantially non-planar shape. The apparatus of this embodiment further comprises a sensing device coupled to the deck section of the person support apparatus. The sensing device is configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the person support apparatus without contacting the person. The sensing device is coupled at a location on the deck section such that forces from a person supported by the deck section are transmitted through the portion of the deck section having the non-planar shape. The portion of the deck section has a generally parabolic shape in one embodiment.
In yet another embodiment, at least one beam member supports the deck section. A sensing device is coupled to the deck section of the person support apparatus and configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the person support apparatus without contacting the person. The sensing device is coupled at a location on the deck section such that forces from a person supported by the deck section are transmitted through the deck section and arrive at the sensing device without being transmitted to the beam member. In one embodiment, a processor is coupled to the person support apparatus and configured to receive the monitoring signal and determine the onset of a physiological episode based upon the monitoring signal. The episode may comprise at least one of a heart attack, congestive heart failure, endocarditis, myocarditis, coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, asthma, cystic fibrosis (CF), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
According to some embodiments contemplated herein, a sensing device is coupled to the deck section of the person support apparatus and is configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the person support apparatus without contacting the person. The sensing device is coupled at a location on the deck section that is closer to the middle of the deck section than is any portion of the beam member. A processor may be coupled to the person support apparatus and configured to receive the monitoring signal and determine the onset of a physiological episode based upon the monitoring signal.
According to another embodiment, a waveguide is coupled to the deck section and is configured to transmit energy, such as mechanical movement or sound, from one part of the person support apparatus to another part of the person support apparatus. A sensing device is coupled to the waveguide and is configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the person support apparatus without contacting the person. For example, the sensing device may be mechanically coupled with the waveguide in some embodiments. The waveguide may comprise a beam or wire or strip in some embodiments.
According to a further embodiment, an apparatus is provided for supporting and contactless monitoring of a person and includes a first cushioning and/or support layer and a second cushioning and/or support layer. A sensing device is located adjacent at least one of the first and second layers and configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the person support apparatus without contacting the person. The cushioning layers may comprise foam and/or air bladders, and a cover may enclose the layers, in some embodiments. The cover may include an antimicrobial material in some embodiments, if desired.
In yet another embodiment, an apparatus for supporting and contactless monitoring of a person comprises at least one air bladder and a sensing device that is located above or below the air bladder and that is configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the person support apparatus without contacting the person. The apparatus may further comprise foam. In some embodiments, a processor is located within or adjacent the person support apparatus and configured to receive the monitoring signal and determine the onset of a physiological episode based upon the monitoring signal. The episode can comprise at least one of a heart episode, skin condition, and a breathing episode.
In a further embodiment, at least one sensing device is located above or below the air bladder of a patient support surface and is configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the person support apparatus without contacting the person. A plurality of sensing devices may be provided above and/or below the air bladder in other embodiments.
According to this disclosure, therefore, the apparatus may comprise a mattress comprising at least one air bladder and a cover enclosing the air bladder. A sensing device may be located within the cover and configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the mattress. In some embodiments, a processor is located within or adjacent the mattress and configured to receive the monitoring signal and determine the onset of a physiological episode based upon the monitoring signal. The episode may comprise at least one of a heart episode, skin condition, and a breathing episode.
In another embodiment, an apparatus is provided for supporting and contactless monitoring of a person. The apparatus comprises a mattress having at least one cushioning layer, and a cover enclosing the cushioning layer. A sensing device is located within the cover and configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the mattress. A processor can be located within or adjacent the mattress and configured to receive the monitoring signal and determine the onset of a physiological episode based upon the monitoring signal, in some embodiments.
In a further embodiment, an apparatus is provided for supporting and contactless monitoring of a person. The apparatus includes a mattress comprising a first cushioning layer and a second cushioning layer. A sensing device is located at least partially between the layers to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological parameter of a person supported on the mattress without contacting the person. The layers may comprise foam and/or air bladders. In some embodiments, a processor is located within or adjacent the mattress and configured to receive the monitoring signal and determine the onset of a physiological episode based upon the monitoring signal. In some embodiments, the layers may comprise foam of differing durometers. A rigid support can be located adjacent at least one of the first and second layers, and the sensing device located between the rigid support and at least one of the first and second layers.
In another embodiment, an apparatus is provided for supporting and contactless monitoring of a person. The apparatus of this embodiment comprises a person support apparatus having a support surface configured to support a person in at least one of a seated and supine position. An opening is located beneath at least a portion of the support surface. A sensing device is located at least partially within the opening and configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the mattress. The sensing device is coupled with a cassette in some embodiments. The cassette can be slidably removable within the opening and mate with a connector adjacent the opening. In some embodiments, the sensing device is held between two rigid sheets. In some embodiments, the sensing device is coupled to the person support apparatus via a connector which connects to the sensing device via an interference fit or a snap in connection, and the sensing device includes an electrical connector that couples with a connector in the person support apparatus.
According to another embodiment, an apparatus is provided for supporting and contactless monitoring of a person. The apparatus of this embodiment includes a person support apparatus having a surface configured for supporting a person in at least one of a sitting and supine position, and a support layer beneath the surface. A sensing device is located between the surface and the support layer and configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the person support apparatus without contacting the person. In some embodiments, at least one weight sensor, an output device, and a processor are also provided. The weight sensor is configured to obtain the person weight at multiple locations along the person support apparatus. The output device is configured to provide an output signal indicative of the physiological sign based upon the monitoring signal. The processor is configured to receive the person's weight from the person sensor and to directly or indirectly adjust at least one of the sensing device, the monitoring signal, and the output signal based upon the person weights. In some embodiments, the weight sensor comprises an inductance sensor or a load cell, and the sensing device comprises a piezoelectric sensor.
In another embodiment, an apparatus is provided for supporting and contactless monitoring of a person, comprising a person support apparatus, a sensing device and a housing. The person support apparatus has a support surface for supporting a person in at least one of a sitting and a supine position. The sensing device is configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the person support apparatus without contacting the person. The housing is coupled with the person support apparatus and includes a processor configured to receive the monitoring signal from the sensing device. In some embodiments, a power supply is provided and configured for providing power to at least one component of the person support apparatus, as well as to the processor. In some embodiments, a user interface is provided and configured to control at least one function of the person support apparatus by a user. The user interface is further configured for displaying data under control of the processor and/or setting the operation of the processor via an input to the user interface. In some embodiments, the processor is configured to display data representing the physiological sign, indicate an alarm based upon the monitoring signal, and/or determine the onset of an episode based upon the monitoring signal. In some embodiments, the person support apparatus comprises a bed, mattress or chair with a movable component, and the apparatus further comprises a user interface configured to control the movable component via input from a user, to provide input to the processor and/or sensing device, and/or to display output originating from the processor and/or sensing device.
According to a further embodiment, an apparatus is provided for supporting and contactless monitoring of a person comprising a person support apparatus and a moving component. The person support apparatus has a support surface configured for supporting a person in at least one of a sitting and supine position. The moving component is configured to provide a therapy to the person when supported on the support surface. A sensing device is coupled with the person support apparatus and configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the person support apparatus without contacting the person while the moving component is providing therapy. In some embodiments, the person support apparatus comprises a mattress and the moving component comprises an air bladder, and the therapy comprises alternating pressure therapy, continuous lateral rotation therapy, and/or low air loss therapy. In some embodiments, the apparatus can further comprise a processor configured to process the monitoring signal and determine the onset of an episode based upon the monitoring signal. The episode can comprise at least one of a heart episode, skin condition, and a breathing episode, including but not limited to heart attack, congestive heart failure, endocarditis, myocarditis, coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, asthma, cystic fibrosis (CF), and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
According to another embodiment, a system is provided for supporting and contactless monitoring of a person, the system comprising. The person support apparatus includes a person support surface, a movable component (e.g., a motor, deck section, bladder, etc.) configured to provide movement to the patient, and a power source configured to supply power to the person support apparatus. The person support apparatus further includes a sensing device coupled with the person support apparatus, wherein the sensing device is configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the person support apparatus without contacting the person. In addition, the person support apparatus includes a signal conditioner configured to receiving the monitoring signal and process the monitoring signal into a conditioned signal, and a data storage device receiving power from the power source and configured to store the conditioned signal as data. Moreover, the person support apparatus includes a processor powered by the powered source and configured to receive the data signal and to determine at least one of an alarm condition and the onset of an episode. The system further comprises a communication network configured to receive an indication of the alarm condition/onset. The communication network is configured to at least one of 1) record that the alarm condition/onset has occurred, 2) report to at least one personnel that the alarm condition/onset has occurred, and 3) modify an allocation of tasks or resources based on the alarm condition/onset.
In any one or more embodiments described above or described herein, a processor can be located within, connected to, or coupled with the apparatus, and configured to receive the monitoring signal and determine the onset of a physiological episode based upon the monitoring signal. The determination of the onset can be a determination that an episode is beginning to occur, or a prediction that an episode will be occurring soon. The episodes described herein may comprise various physiological episodes or events, such as those involving heart activity or breathing/lung activity or skin condition for example, including but not limited to heart attack, congestive heart failure, endocarditis, myocarditis, coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, asthma, cystic fibrosis (CF), and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Skin episodes that can be detected using patient movement, heart rate, and/or breath rate via the embodiments herein include skin deterioration and decubitus ulcers.
These and other features, alone or in combination with any other feature(s) (such as those described herein and/or those listed in the claims) may comprise patentable subject matter. Such features and principles of the disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description of various examples and embodiments illustrating the best mode of carrying out the features and principles as presently perceived.
The detailed description particularly refers to the accompanying figures, in which:
In
The illustrative hospital bed 50 of this embodiment has a bed frame which, in the illustrative example, includes a stationary base 54 coupled to a weigh frame 56 that is mounted via frame members 57a to an adjustably positionable mattress support frame or deck 58 configured to support a person directly or indirectly (e.g., via mattress 60). The mattress 60 defines a patient support surface 65 bounded by a head end 60a positioned adjacent to a headboard 62a mounted to the mattress support frame 58 at a head end 62 of the bed 50, a foot end 60b positioned adjacent to a footboard 64b mounted to the mattress support frame 58 at a foot end 64 of the bed 50, a left side 60c and a right side 60d. A pair of siderails 66a and 66c are mounted to the mattress support frame 58 adjacent to one side 60c of the mattress 60, and another pair of siderails 66b and 66d are mounted to the mattress support frame 58 adjacent to the opposite side 60d of the mattress 60. The siderail 66a supports a patient monitoring control panel 70, and the siderail 66b supports a mattress position control panel 69. The bed 50 is generally configured to adjustably position the mattress support 58 relative to the base 54.
Structures and devices can be provided to adjustably position the mattress support 58, and such structures and devices may include, for example, linkages, drives, and other movement members and devices coupled between base 54 and the weigh frame 56, and/or between weigh frame 56 and mattress support frame 58. Control of the position of the mattress support frame 58 and mattress 60 relative to the base 54 or weigh frame 56 can be provided, for example, by a patient control pendant (not shown), a mattress position control panel 69, and/or a number of mattress positioning pedals 55. The mattress support frame 58 may, for example, be adjustably positioned in a general incline from the head end 62 to the foot end 64 or vice versa. Additionally, the mattress support 58 may be adjustably positioned such that the head end 60a of the mattress 60 is positioned between minimum and maximum incline angles, e.g., 0-65 degrees, relative to horizontal or bed flat, and the mattress support 58 may also be adjustably positioned such that the thigh area 60f of the mattress 60 is positioned between minimum and maximum bend angles, e.g., 0-35 degrees, relative to horizontal or bed flat. The mattress support frame 58 or portions thereof may be adjustably positioned in other orientations, and such other orientations are contemplated by this disclosure.
Referring to
Referring now to
The processor module 86 of this embodiment includes a microprocessor-based controller 88 having a Flash memory unit 90 and a local RAM memory unit 92 as shown diagrammatically in
The sensors 68a-d are coupled to the bed 50 and are configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the person support apparatus without contacting the person. These sensors 68a-d may comprise piezoelectric sensors that produce a signal change indicative of the sign being monitored. Various piezoelectric materials and configurations can be utilized for such sensors, such as those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,127,948; 4,889,131; and 3,996,928, just to list a few, the disclosures of each of which are hereby incorporated by referenced herein. The processor 86 is thus coupled to the bed 50 and configured to receive the monitoring signals from the sensors 68a-d. The processor 86 is protected from fluids and environment via the housing 56a, which is connected with the bed 50.
The processor 86 is also configured, via the software it runs from its logic 96, to determine the onset of a physiological sign, event, or episode of the person based upon the monitoring signal. The monitoring signal from the sensors 68a-68d may comprise at least one of a heart rate signal and a breathing signal and the physiological sign determined by the processor can comprise an adverse heart episode or breathing episode. For example, the heart episode or breathing episode, the onset which is determined by the processor 96, can be any of a number of adverse health events/conditions, such as a heart attack, congestive heart failure, endocarditis, myocarditis, coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, asthma, cystic fibrosis (CF), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Various methods can be utilized to detect/predict the onset of such an episode, such as those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,314,451; 7,077,810; and 4,422,458 and U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2008/0114260 A1 and 2007/0118054 A1, for example, the disclosures of each of which are incorporated by reference herein. Such a detection or prediction can be achieved by comparing the heart rate and/or breath rates to various patterns stored in memory, and determining whether the measured heart rate and/or breath rate matches a pattern that is associated with the onset of a condition. As an alternative, this can be achieved by a set of rules that has threshold levels of heart/breath rate, amplitude and changes in the same which correspond with various conditions. If the currently measured signals match such a rule, then the processor 86 indicates that the onset of the condition is occurring or is about to occur, such as by sounding or lighting an alarm on control panel 70, or otherwise communicating with the caregiver and/or patient. The patterns or rules which are compared to the heart or breath rate detected by the sensors 68a-d can be established by analyzing heart and breath rate of a population of patients having the onset of various episodes. The current data from the sensors 68a-d can thus be compared to such patterns or rules to determine whether an onset is occurring or is about to occur. Alarms and data from this monitoring can be displayed via the displays and indicators on sidereal 66a (
In one embodiment, if multiple sensors are utilized, one sensor 68a can be affixed to a head deck section below where the patient's torso generally would be located and the other sensor 68b can be affixed to a seat deck section below where the patient's mid section or seat section would generally be located. Accordingly, in the example of
The array 160 can be disposed on the deck 58 of the bed 50 so that the various piezoelectric sensory devices 112 are provided at a plurality of positions. For example, each array 160 can extend in a direction between the head and foot ends of the deck so that each array 160 can be used to detect a pressure profile between the head and foot ends. In fact, the sensors 68, or arrays 160 of sensors 68, can be disposed on any portion of the deck 58 and on any combination of portions of deck 58, depending on the positions for which pressure measurement (and ultimately patient condition) is desired.
Each sensor 68 is thus configured to provide a monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a person supported on the person support apparatus without contacting the person. Variations in pressure provided by the sensor 68 represent heart rate or breath rate, and can thus be processed accordingly. For example, various filtering algorithms can be used to filter out unwanted incoming data with the filtered data being representative of the patient's heart beats and breathing patterns. Returning again to
As shown in
In this embodiment, seat section 240 of the deck is positioned adjacent head section 238 and is pivotably coupled to weigh frame 56. However, embodiments in which seat section is fixed relative to frame 56 are contemplated by this disclosure. In the illustrative example, a first end 236 of seat section 240 is pivotably coupled to flanges 230 of weigh frame 56 such that seat section 240 is rotatable about a pivot 237. Seat section 240 is further coupled to actuator 248d. In the illustrated embodiment, actuator 248d is pivotably coupled to a downwardly extending bracket 238 of seat section 240 and to bracket 234 of weigh frame 56. Actuator 248d is configured to raise a second end 239 of seat section 40. As such, second end 239 of seat section 240 may be raised or lowered relative to first end 236, by the extension or retraction of the length of cylinder 172d of actuator 248d.
In this embodiment shown in
Deck 58 is configured to support mattress 60 (as shown in the embodiments of
The lowered central portion, generally corresponding to floors 264 and 266 of head section 238 and seat section 240, respectively, provides ample space for mattress 60 to be positioned. By having a lowered central portion, the pivot of a patient's hip when the patient is positioned on mattress 60 is more in line with pivots 232, 237 of head section 238 and seat section 240 and provides ample space to provide a mattress 60 that provides adequate support for the patient. In one illustrative embodiment, the position of the pivot of the hip of the patient is about two inches above the pivots 232, 237 of the head and seat sections 238 and 240 of the deck 56. In another illustrative embodiment, the position of the pivot of the hip of the patient is generally in line with the pivots 232, 237 of the head and seat sections 238 and 240 of the deck 56. By minimizing the distance between the pivot of the patient's hip and the pivots 232, 237 of the head and seat sections 38 and 40, the amount of shear exerted against the patient is reduced as either the head or seat 238, 240 section is raised or lowered. By reducing the amount of shear exerted against the patient, the possibility of the patient experiencing skin breakdown is reduced. However, other bed and deck structures than those illustrated in
In the example of
In accordance with another embodiment, the head deck 238 is under compressive stress or tensile stress, at least when a person is not supported by the person support apparatus. Stress beams can be located at least partially in the head deck 238 and configured to provide a tensile or compressive stress to the panel. In some embodiments, the sensing device 68a is integrally molded into the panel during a molding process that creates the stress in the head deck section 238. Thus, the sensing device can comprise a piezoelectric element coupled to the head deck and placed under stress by the stress of the head deck, in some embodiments.
In the illustrative embodiment, the sensor 68a comprises a top housing 340 and a bottom housing 342 which hold therebetween a piezoelectric diaphragm member 344 in tension or stressed state. A circuit board 348 is situated inside a cavity defined by top and bottom housings 340, 342 and receives the signals representing changes in pressure via a contact spring member 347. An amplifier 346 on the circuit board 348 amplifies the signal received. Other appropriate piezoelectric processing, filtering or detecting circuitry and software or firmware may be provided on the circuit board 348. The board 348 then provides an output signal via conductor 172, which is provided to the main processor of the bed, such as processor 86 of
In this example, an additional sensor 68b is connected to the seat portion 236 via connectors 110. This sensor 68b has the same construction as sensor 68a of
Turning now to the embodiment of
The conditioned data is then stored, as shown at step 608 of
The data is then compared to historical data, of the patient or of the population in general or of the patient's specific demographic. In the example of
If it is determined that an episode is occurring, then the data analysis elements 712 of
The data and/or any alarms or alerts can then be reported out to appropriate persons or equipment. This can be conducted by the system elements 720, 722, and 724 shown in the embodiment of
A turn assist bladder assembly 4220 is received above the foam filler 4218 and is coupled to the mounting substrate 4216. An upper bladder assembly 4222 is received above the turn assist bladder assembly 4220 and is likewise coupled to the mounting substrate 4216. A fire sock or barrier 2124 is configured to surround the receiving base 4208, including the foot section 4210 and the body section 4212, the mounting substrates 4214 and 4216, the heel bladder assembly 4215, the foam filler 4218, the turn assist bladder assembly 4220, and the upper bladder assembly 4222. A shear cover 2125 is configured to be received over the fire barrier 2124. The top cover portion 2106 is configured to be coupled to the bottom cover portion 2104 to receive the other mattress components and to define the outer cover 2102. A mattress fluid connector 4068 is coupled to the bottom cover portion 2104 and is configured to provide fluid communication between a manifold (not shown), which is coupled to a pump (not shown), and the mattress 4014. The turn assist bladder 4220 is a moving component that can be utilized to assist the caregiver in turning the patient. In addition or as an alternative, the turn assist bladder 4220 can be utilized for providing continuous lateral rotation therapy to the patient, such as of the type known in the art for example. Such a therapy involves periodically rotating the patient from side to side, to reduce the risk of pressure sores. The upper bladder layer 4222 may be utilized to provide support and cushioning to the patient, and to provide alternating pressure therapy to the patient, such as known in the art for example. Thus, each upper bladder can be a moving component as well. Additional details of mattress assembly 4014 and the components for controlling the inflation thereof can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,296,312 which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.
In the illustrative embodiment of
Since the turn assist bladder assembly 2120 is sandwiched intermediate the upper bladder assembly 2122 and a crowning core 2218, inflation of the upper bladder assembly 2122 facilitates the rapid venting of air within the turn assist bladders 2262 and 2264 to atmosphere. In this embodiment, the foam crowning core 2218 is received within the channel defined by the sidewalls and the body section of the receiving base 2108. The core 2218 may be composed of a plurality of substantially planar layers of foam which are affixed together using conventional means, such as an adhesive.
In this embodiment, the mattress assembly 14 is fitted with several vital signs sensors. Here, three sensors 68a, 68b, and 68c are provided beneath the center portion 2314 of the upper bladder assembly/layer 2122 and above the foam layer portion 2218. Additionally, a fourth sensor 68d is provided beneath the center of the foam layer 2218 but inside the cover layer 26. Accordingly, the patient's vital signs can be detected from multiple locations inside the mattress assembly 14, by placing the sensors within differing layers and allowing for multiple signals to be determined. In this example, the sensors 68a and 68c are placed between the bladder 2314 and the turning bladders 2262 and 2266, so that the vital sign detection need not occur through the large turning bladder. In other embodiments, the sensors 68a, 68b, and 68c can be placed on top of the center bladder 2314 and below the top cover/ticking.
As shown in the example of
As further shown in this embodiment, the sensor 68d is placed between the foam 2218 and the base 2108. The base 2108 can comprise a rigid material to allow for additional support of the sensor 68d if needed or desired. Metal, fiberglass, plastic, composites, and other rigid materials can be used for this purpose. An additional flat rigid support sheet or panel 501 can be placed under any of the sensors if needed or desired. Such a support 501 can likewise be made of a flat and relatively inflexible panel of fiberglass, plastic, composite, or other rigid material. An additional similar support sheet can be placed on top of the sensor if needed or desired.
In further embodiments, instead of a rigid material, the base 2108 can comprise a layer of foam. Accordingly, in such embodiments, the sensor 68d is held between two layers of foam 2108 and 2218. These layers 2108 and 2218 may comprise foams having differing durometers. For instance, each foam layer 2108 and 2218 may have a durometer in the range of between 7 and 78 lbs ILD, but the durometer of each layer is of a different value within this range.
The foregoing description of various embodiments and principles of the disclosure have been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Moreover, although multiple inventive aspects and principles have been presented, these need not be utilized in combination, and various combinations of inventive aspects and principles are possible in light of the various embodiments provided above. Accordingly, the above description is intended to embrace all possible alternatives, modifications, aspects, combinations, principles, and variations that have been discussed or suggested herein, as well as all others that fall within the principles, spirit and broad scope of the inventions defined by the claims.
Claims
1. A patient support surface comprising
- a cover defining an interior region,
- a support layer situated in the interior region,
- a first sensing device situated in the interior region above the support layer,
- a second sensing device situated in the interior region beneath the support layer,
- wherein the first and second sensors are configured to provide at least one monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a patient atop the patient support surface.
2. The patient support surface of claim 1, wherein the support layer comprises at least one air bladder.
3. The patient support surface of claim 2, wherein the at least one air bladder comprises a turn bladder that is inflated to turn a patient about a central axis extending from a head end to a foot end of the cover toward one of the patient's sides.
4. The patient support surface of claim 1, further comprising at least one air bladder that is in the interior region and that overlies the support layer and the first and second sensing devices.
5. The patient support surface of claim 1, further comprising a processor assembly that is located inside the interior region and that is electrically coupled to the first and second sensing devices.
6. The patient support surface of claim 1, wherein the second sensing device is coupled to a rigid support sheet.
7. The patient support surface of claim 6, wherein the first sensing device is coupled to a rigid support sheet.
8. The patient support surface of claim 1, wherein the second sensing device is held between a first layer of foam and a second layer of foam.
9. The patient support surface of claim 8, wherein the first layer of foam and the second layer of foam have different durometer hardness values.
10. The patient support surface of claim 9, wherein the first layer of foam and the second layer of foam have durometer hardness values between about 7 lbs ILD and about 78 lbs ILD.
11. The patient support surface of claim 1, further comprising a third sensing device situated in the interior region above the support layer and spaced apart from the first sensing device.
12. A patient support surface comprising
- a cover with a head end and a foot end defining an interior region,
- a first sensing device situated in the interior region near the head end of the cover to underlie a patient's upper body, and
- a second sensing device situated in the interior region between the first sensing device and the head end of the cover,
- wherein the first and second sensors are configured to provide at least one monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a patient atop the patient support surface.
13. The patient support surface of claim 12, further comprising a third sensing device situated in the interior region between the first sensing device and the foot end of the cover, wherein the third sensing device is configured to provide at least one monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a patient atop the patient support surface.
14. The patient support surface of claim 12, further comprising an upper inflatable bladder assembly situated in the interior region.
15. The patient support surface of claim 14, wherein the first sensing device is situated above the inflatable bladder assembly and the second sensing device is situated below upper inflatable bladder assembly.
16. The patient support surface of claim 15, further comprising a foam base configured to receive the upper inflatable air bladder assembly.
17. The patient support surface of claim 16, wherein the first sensing device is situated above the foam base and the second sensing device is situated below the foam base.
18. The patient support surface of claim 17, further comprising a third sensing device situated in the interior region above the base, wherein the third sensing device is configured to provide at least one monitoring signal indicative of at least one physiological sign of a patient atop the patient support surface.
19. The patient support surface of claim 18, wherein the third sensing device is situated between the first sensing device and the foot end of the cover.
20. The patient support surface of claim 12, further comprising a processor assembly that is located inside the interior region and that is electrically coupled to the first and second sensing devices.
Type: Application
Filed: Sep 28, 2012
Publication Date: Jan 24, 2013
Inventors: Carl William Riley (Milan, IN), Timothy J. Receveur (Guilford, IN), David L. Ribble (Indianapolis, IN)
Application Number: 13/629,922
International Classification: A61G 7/05 (20060101);