Reco : Smart Tourniquet (2021)
智能止血帶
Client : National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Nursing Department
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Background
It is not uncommon for accidents caused by unremoved tourniquets in clinical, especially for patients with unconsciousness. Patient harm as described in the serious event narratives included limb paresthesia, weakness, pain, swelling, and deep vein thrombosis. It is almost always caused by human errors, such as being busy and forgetting to check, and the patient's clothing covering the tourniquet. Although the probability of human error can be reduced through education and training, the safety of patients in the treatment process cannot be guaranteed.
Clinical Problem :
Tourniquet not removed resulting in medical accident
Situation and Complication
1. After an injection or blood draw → Vesicular cyanosis / Nerve necrosis
2. After hemodialysis → Blockages of circulation / Damage of the fistula
Client Needs :
A warning device combined with the tourniquet
Low cost / Small volume / Simple operation / Quick install / Alarm sound / Cleanable and sterilizable / Anti-mistouch design
Prototyping
Low-fidelity models were used to test human factors, user acceptance, and improve engineering problems. Mid-fidelity prototypes refined the internal structures and mechanisms before mold development stage. We provided twenty sets of prototypes for testing in general wards and hemodialysis center in NCKU hospital.
Low-volume Production
In this project, I participated in the complete production process, including material and texture selection, draft angle and size tolerance correction, troubleshooting of assembly problems. We use aluminum name plate to decorate the device, which can be customized style and laser engraving by customers.
Reco provides a fast, low-cost solution that uses a buzzer and low-power Bluetooth to send warnings to medical staff, patients, and caregivers to remind users to loosen the tourniquet. The device can be divided into 5 min and 20 min versions: the 5 min is suitable for IV insertion or blood draws, and the 20 min is suitable for hemostasis after dialysis.
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If you are interested in this project, please contact www.acusense.com.tw
