EP0230458A1 - Patient identification and verification system and method - Google Patents
Patient identification and verification system and methodInfo
- Publication number
- EP0230458A1 EP0230458A1 EP86904675A EP86904675A EP0230458A1 EP 0230458 A1 EP0230458 A1 EP 0230458A1 EP 86904675 A EP86904675 A EP 86904675A EP 86904675 A EP86904675 A EP 86904675A EP 0230458 A1 EP0230458 A1 EP 0230458A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- patient
- bar code
- data
- terminal
- portable handheld
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Withdrawn
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
- A61B5/41—Detecting, measuring or recording for evaluating the immune or lymphatic systems
- A61B5/411—Detecting or monitoring allergy or intolerance reactions to an allergenic agent or substance
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
- G06F1/1626—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers with a single-body enclosure integrating a flat display, e.g. Personal Digital Assistants [PDAs]
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
- G06F1/1633—Constructional details or arrangements of portable computers not specific to the type of enclosures covered by groups G06F1/1615 - G06F1/1626
- G06F1/1635—Details related to the integration of battery packs and other power supplies such as fuel cells or integrated AC adapter
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
- G06F1/1633—Constructional details or arrangements of portable computers not specific to the type of enclosures covered by groups G06F1/1615 - G06F1/1626
- G06F1/1656—Details related to functional adaptations of the enclosure, e.g. to provide protection against EMI, shock, water, or to host detachable peripherals like a mouse or removable expansions units like PCMCIA cards, or to provide access to internal components for maintenance or to removable storage supports like CDs or DVDs, or to mechanically mount accessories
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
- G06F1/1633—Constructional details or arrangements of portable computers not specific to the type of enclosures covered by groups G06F1/1615 - G06F1/1626
- G06F1/1684—Constructional details or arrangements related to integrated I/O peripherals not covered by groups G06F1/1635 - G06F1/1675
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06K—GRAPHICAL DATA READING; PRESENTATION OF DATA; RECORD CARRIERS; HANDLING RECORD CARRIERS
- G06K17/00—Methods or arrangements for effecting co-operative working between equipments covered by two or more of main groups G06K1/00 - G06K15/00, e.g. automatic card files incorporating conveying and reading operations
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06K—GRAPHICAL DATA READING; PRESENTATION OF DATA; RECORD CARRIERS; HANDLING RECORD CARRIERS
- G06K7/00—Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers, e.g. for reading patterns
- G06K7/10—Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers, e.g. for reading patterns by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensing; by corpuscular radiation
- G06K7/10544—Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers, e.g. for reading patterns by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensing; by corpuscular radiation by scanning of the records by radiation in the optical part of the electromagnetic spectrum
- G06K7/10821—Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers, e.g. for reading patterns by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensing; by corpuscular radiation by scanning of the records by radiation in the optical part of the electromagnetic spectrum further details of bar or optical code scanning devices
- G06K7/10881—Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers, e.g. for reading patterns by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensing; by corpuscular radiation by scanning of the records by radiation in the optical part of the electromagnetic spectrum further details of bar or optical code scanning devices constructional details of hand-held scanners
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- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
- G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
- G07C9/20—Individual registration on entry or exit involving the use of a pass
- G07C9/27—Individual registration on entry or exit involving the use of a pass with central registration
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
- G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
- G07C9/20—Individual registration on entry or exit involving the use of a pass
- G07C9/28—Individual registration on entry or exit involving the use of a pass the pass enabling tracking or indicating presence
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- G—PHYSICS
- G16—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR SPECIFIC APPLICATION FIELDS
- G16H—HEALTHCARE INFORMATICS, i.e. INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR THE HANDLING OR PROCESSING OF MEDICAL OR HEALTHCARE DATA
- G16H10/00—ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of patient-related medical or healthcare data
- G16H10/60—ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of patient-related medical or healthcare data for patient-specific data, e.g. for electronic patient records
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G16—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR SPECIFIC APPLICATION FIELDS
- G16H—HEALTHCARE INFORMATICS, i.e. INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR THE HANDLING OR PROCESSING OF MEDICAL OR HEALTHCARE DATA
- G16H10/00—ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of patient-related medical or healthcare data
- G16H10/60—ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of patient-related medical or healthcare data for patient-specific data, e.g. for electronic patient records
- G16H10/65—ICT specially adapted for the handling or processing of patient-related medical or healthcare data for patient-specific data, e.g. for electronic patient records stored on portable record carriers, e.g. on smartcards, RFID tags or CD
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G16—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR SPECIFIC APPLICATION FIELDS
- G16H—HEALTHCARE INFORMATICS, i.e. INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR THE HANDLING OR PROCESSING OF MEDICAL OR HEALTHCARE DATA
- G16H20/00—ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans, e.g. for handling prescriptions, for steering therapy or for monitoring patient compliance
- G16H20/10—ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans, e.g. for handling prescriptions, for steering therapy or for monitoring patient compliance relating to drugs or medications, e.g. for ensuring correct administration to patients
- G16H20/13—ICT specially adapted for therapies or health-improving plans, e.g. for handling prescriptions, for steering therapy or for monitoring patient compliance relating to drugs or medications, e.g. for ensuring correct administration to patients delivered from dispensers
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04B—TRANSMISSION
- H04B3/00—Line transmission systems
- H04B3/54—Systems for transmission via power distribution lines
- H04B3/542—Systems for transmission via power distribution lines the information being in digital form
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61J—CONTAINERS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR MEDICAL OR PHARMACEUTICAL PURPOSES; DEVICES OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR BRINGING PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS INTO PARTICULAR PHYSICAL OR ADMINISTERING FORMS; DEVICES FOR ADMINISTERING FOOD OR MEDICINES ORALLY; BABY COMFORTERS; DEVICES FOR RECEIVING SPITTLE
- A61J2205/00—General identification or selection means
- A61J2205/10—Bar codes
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61J—CONTAINERS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR MEDICAL OR PHARMACEUTICAL PURPOSES; DEVICES OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR BRINGING PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS INTO PARTICULAR PHYSICAL OR ADMINISTERING FORMS; DEVICES FOR ADMINISTERING FOOD OR MEDICINES ORALLY; BABY COMFORTERS; DEVICES FOR RECEIVING SPITTLE
- A61J2205/00—General identification or selection means
- A61J2205/30—Printed labels
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61J—CONTAINERS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR MEDICAL OR PHARMACEUTICAL PURPOSES; DEVICES OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR BRINGING PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS INTO PARTICULAR PHYSICAL OR ADMINISTERING FORMS; DEVICES FOR ADMINISTERING FOOD OR MEDICINES ORALLY; BABY COMFORTERS; DEVICES FOR RECEIVING SPITTLE
- A61J2205/00—General identification or selection means
- A61J2205/60—General identification or selection means using magnetic or electronic identifications, e.g. chips, RFID, electronic tags
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F2200/00—Indexing scheme relating to G06F1/04 - G06F1/32
- G06F2200/16—Indexing scheme relating to G06F1/16 - G06F1/18
- G06F2200/163—Indexing scheme relating to constructional details of the computer
- G06F2200/1633—Protecting arrangement for the entire housing of the computer
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G16—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR SPECIFIC APPLICATION FIELDS
- G16H—HEALTHCARE INFORMATICS, i.e. INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR THE HANDLING OR PROCESSING OF MEDICAL OR HEALTHCARE DATA
- G16H40/00—ICT specially adapted for the management or administration of healthcare resources or facilities; ICT specially adapted for the management or operation of medical equipment or devices
- G16H40/60—ICT specially adapted for the management or administration of healthcare resources or facilities; ICT specially adapted for the management or operation of medical equipment or devices for the operation of medical equipment or devices
- G16H40/63—ICT specially adapted for the management or administration of healthcare resources or facilities; ICT specially adapted for the management or operation of medical equipment or devices for the operation of medical equipment or devices for local operation
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04B—TRANSMISSION
- H04B2203/00—Indexing scheme relating to line transmission systems
- H04B2203/54—Aspects of powerline communications not already covered by H04B3/54 and its subgroups
- H04B2203/5404—Methods of transmitting or receiving signals via power distribution lines
- H04B2203/5408—Methods of transmitting or receiving signals via power distribution lines using protocols
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04B—TRANSMISSION
- H04B2203/00—Indexing scheme relating to line transmission systems
- H04B2203/54—Aspects of powerline communications not already covered by H04B3/54 and its subgroups
- H04B2203/5404—Methods of transmitting or receiving signals via power distribution lines
- H04B2203/5416—Methods of transmitting or receiving signals via power distribution lines by adding signals to the wave form of the power source
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04B—TRANSMISSION
- H04B2203/00—Indexing scheme relating to line transmission systems
- H04B2203/54—Aspects of powerline communications not already covered by H04B3/54 and its subgroups
- H04B2203/5429—Applications for powerline communications
- H04B2203/5437—Wired telephone
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04B—TRANSMISSION
- H04B2203/00—Indexing scheme relating to line transmission systems
- H04B2203/54—Aspects of powerline communications not already covered by H04B3/54 and its subgroups
- H04B2203/5429—Applications for powerline communications
- H04B2203/5441—Wireless systems or telephone
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04B—TRANSMISSION
- H04B2203/00—Indexing scheme relating to line transmission systems
- H04B2203/54—Aspects of powerline communications not already covered by H04B3/54 and its subgroups
- H04B2203/5429—Applications for powerline communications
- H04B2203/5445—Local network
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04B—TRANSMISSION
- H04B2203/00—Indexing scheme relating to line transmission systems
- H04B2203/54—Aspects of powerline communications not already covered by H04B3/54 and its subgroups
- H04B2203/5429—Applications for powerline communications
- H04B2203/545—Audio/video application, e.g. interphone
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04B—TRANSMISSION
- H04B2203/00—Indexing scheme relating to line transmission systems
- H04B2203/54—Aspects of powerline communications not already covered by H04B3/54 and its subgroups
- H04B2203/5429—Applications for powerline communications
- H04B2203/5458—Monitor sensor; Alarm systems
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04B—TRANSMISSION
- H04B2203/00—Indexing scheme relating to line transmission systems
- H04B2203/54—Aspects of powerline communications not already covered by H04B3/54 and its subgroups
- H04B2203/5462—Systems for power line communications
- H04B2203/5495—Systems for power line communications having measurements and testing channel
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a system and method for patient identification and clinical care Feedback ⁇ tion. More particularly, the present invention relates to a patient identification system and method providing for accurate identification of a patient and for relating items to a patient and ensuring that patient specific items do pro ⁇ perly correspond to a patient, thereby providing for accurate medical treatment, billing and inventory and cost control.
- Medical institutions are faced with a competitive environment which they must improve profitability and yet simultaneously improve patient care.
- There are several fac ⁇ tors which contribute to the ever increasing costs of hospi ⁇ tal care. For example, there is an ever increasing amount of paperwork required by nurses, pharmacists and laboratory per ⁇ sonnel.
- the blood sample when a blood sample is taken from a patient, the blood sample must be identified by the name on the patient's bracelet.
- a nurse or technician may miscopy the name or may rely on memory or a different data source, rather than actually reading the patient's bracelet.
- the present invention offers a system which solves or at least reduces the impact of the above-identified problems and other problems associated with health care faci ⁇ lities.
- the present invention relates to a system for patient identification comprising a programmed general pur- pose computer means for processing and storing patient data.
- Input devices are operatively interconnected with the com- puter means for input of patient data into the computer.
- a first identification device is adapted for attachment to a patient for identification of the patient and includes a patient-unique code.
- a plurality of second identification devices are provided for relating various items to a par- 5 ticular patient, the second identification devices including a patient-unique code different from that of the first iden-
- the input means includes a portable terminal having a bar code reader for
- the portable terminal further include ⁇ des an RF transceiver for transmitting bar code data repre ⁇ sentative of the codes scanned by the bar code reader and for
- Mode means interconnected to the computer by, in part, a telephone line is adapted for receipt of the RF signal and for transmitting data to the computer via the telephone line.
- a plurality of terminals are located remo ⁇ tely from the computer at various locations and are intercon-
- One object of the present invention is to provide a patient identification system for identifying patients.
- Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a patient identification system for relating items to a patient.
- Another object of the present invention is to pro ⁇ vide for identification of certain items which are patient
- the present invention not only provides this veri ⁇ fication function, but provides a full audit trail of all
- Still another object of the present invention is to provide for recall an review of patient information in various presentation formats at displa terminals and at printer devices.
- Yet another object of one embodiment of the present invention is " to provide for limited access to the system and provide for identification of the person and/or department entering data respecting a patient and/or items.
- An object of one embodiment of the present inven ⁇ tion is to provide automatic billing and/or inventory control. Cost capture is provided at consumption point which is not possible with current systems.
- Yet another object of on embodiment of the present invention is to provide improved communications using existing transmission paths.
- one embodiment uses existing telephone wiring. This eliminates the substan ⁇ tial cost of wiring installation required by other conven ⁇ tional means. It is an object of the present invention to provide more reliable and safe treatment of patients.
- the overdue drug alert occurs both at a nurses' terminal and at a portable bar code reading device when the nurse scans her identification bar code.
- the present invention provides for an automatic source of administrative reports required by industry, thus saving staff time for clinical therapy instead of paperwork.
- MAR medical administration record
- the present invention provides for an automatic source of administrative reports required by industry, thus saving staff time for clinical therapy instead of paperwork.
- the bar code reader device includes memory files for maintaining a record for recall and review of patient vital signs and the times PRN or other controlled drugs were administered for pain or the like.
- one embodiment of the present inven- tion uses data over voice. (DOV) transmission on existing telephone lines.
- DOV voice over voice
- Additional objects of yet other embodiments of the present invention are to provide a system which is very easy to use; will reduce the amount of administrative paperwork such as charting and will decrease- the amount of time hospi ⁇ tal staff spend charting their activities.
- Still another object of one embodiment of the pre ⁇ sent invention is to monitor a nurse's time with the patient and maintain a chronology of patient events such as when a patient is moved to another room, drugs are administered, a patient has lab tests conducted, a patient checks out of the hospital, etc. whereby a time audit can be performed ' on the ⁇ hospital's patient activities.
- Yet another objective of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide a data base management func ⁇ tion.
- Still another objective of one .embodiment of the present invention is to provide a system and method for determining the identification and location of personnel including patients and staff members, and miscellaneous items.
- radio fre ⁇ quency (RF) transmitter means is worn on the body of the patient for transmitting an RF signal including unique patient identifier information.
- a plurality of spaced apart RF receiver means is provided for receiving the RF signal transmitted from the RF transmitter means.
- the RF receiver means includes fixed position RF receiver means and portable RF receiver means, contained in portable handheld patient terminals, the portable handheld patient terminals including RF transmitter means for transmitting an RF signal.
- the RF receiver means includes interface means for retransmitting the unique patient identifier information over electrical wiring interconnecting the RF receiver means to. central com ⁇ puter means.
- the central computer means receiver the unique patient identifier information transmitted by the RF receiver means and including program means for determining patient location based on the unique patient identifier information received.
- a plurality of terminal means are interconnected to the central computer means for displaying the patient location upon inquiry by a user.
- This embodiment is par ⁇ ticularly suited for health care institutions and more par ⁇ ticularly nursing homes and mental institutions wherein the patients are very ambulatory and are not always cognizant of their actions.
- the RF transmitter if its supporting electronics, and power supply are encapsulated within a media allowing for sterilization and cleaning -so the RF transmitter can be used.
- the RF transmitter is reprogrammable such that it can be reused and programmed to transmit unique patient identifier information.
- the power supply is a battery with a substantially long life thereby enabling the RF transmitter to be used a number of times.
- fixed position and portable RF receiver units are utilized.
- the fixed position RF receiver units are located at predeter ⁇ mined, locations throughout the health care facility.
- the portable RF receiver units are mounted in portable handheld patient terminals which.also include an RF transmitter for retransmission of the RF signal received from the patient worn transmitter to a fixed position RF receiver unit.
- Another objective of one embodiment of the present invention is to provide fixed position RF receiver units which are hardwired to a central computer system by existing telephone wiring or twisted pair wiring and includes data over voice (DOV) modems for transmission of the unique patient identifier information over the telephone wire or RS232 interface means for transmission on the twisted pair wiring.
- a central computer system will be programmed to determine a patient's location based on the information received, and will display the information when so requested by a user at a terminal interconnected to the computer system.
- Yet another object of the present invention is the provision of a portable handheld terminal providing wireless communication by use of an electromagnetic transceiver to a base station transceiver unit.
- the base station being inter- 5 connected to a host central computer system so as to provide real time or near real time communication system so as to provide real time or near real time communication between the portable handheld terminal and the host central computer system.
- Still another object of the present invention is to provide a portable handheld patient terminal including opti ⁇ cal bar code reader which is easy to hold during use.
- the portable handheld patient terminal includes a housing having first and second spaced apart, opposing major surfaces
- Keyboard means is disposed on the first opposing surface for entering data.
- Display means is disposed on the first opposing surface for displaying data.
- Control means as contained in the housing and operatively interconnected to the keyboard means, display means, and optical sensor means for controlling the operation of the keyboard means, the display
- Elongated handle means is interconnected to the housing and extends longitudinally along the second surface, the elongated handle means being spaced from the second surface along a portion thereof, whereby the handle means can be grasped by a user of the por-
- Yet another objective of the present invention is to provide a portable handheld patient terminal with a bar code reader which is self-scanning.
- a binary imaging sensor is provided which enables the bar code reader to self-scan the bar code indicia in both the X and Y directions.
- the bar code reader does not have to be moved relative to the bar code in order to read the bar code indicia.
- the user simply positions the binary imaging sensor over the bar code to be ⁇ 5 read and activates the sensor which takes a digital "picture" of the bar code.
- the digital "picture” is then processed by * appropriate digital processing techniques.
- con ⁇ tact between the bar code reader and the bar code is not required.
- the present invention is particularly useful for
- a bar code reader of the portable handheld patient terminal of the present invention can be used to read characters as well as bar codes.
- Cne object of the present invention is to provide a
- the portable handheld patient terminal is kept at a nursing station and then carried with the nurse or other staff member as they make their rounds administering medica ⁇ tions, taking vital signs, etc.
- the portable handheld patient terminal will have
- the data is then subsequently transmitted via an RF data communication link provided by a conveniently located base station having a transceiver function and thence from the base station over telephone wires by data over voice
- the portable * handheld patient terminal provides a means of data entry by means of a bar code reader, keypad, and a port for connection ⁇ to an external vital signs measurement system.
- Communications is a radio frequency (RF) linked to the base
- liquid crystal display LCD
- keypad a keypad
- audio alarm acoustic alarm
- LED light emitting diode
- the portable handheld patient terminal is preferably operated by a rechargeable
- the base unit will provide communications between the portable handheld patient terminal via the RF link and the central computer system via a telephone link using data over voice (DOV) technology or a twisted pair wire link using existing pairs of wires or newly installed wire.
- DOV data over voice
- the base unit might also utilize the existing AC wiring for power line carrier (PLC) communication.
- PLC power line carrier
- the base unit will include a means of communications through a port to the portable handheld patient terminal when the terminal is inserted into the base. Also included is a battery charger
- the base unit is ideally stationary such as being mounted on a wall and holds the portable handheld patient terminal when not in use.
- FIGURE 1 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a patient identification system in accordance with the prin- ciples of the present invention
- FIGURE 2 is a diagrammatic view of a drug vial with an item bar code identifier thereon;
- FIGURE 3 is a diagrammatic view of a patient iden ⁇ tification bracelet with a patient identifier bar code thereon;
- FIGURE 4 is a diagrammatic view of a sheet of labels with patient identification bar code identifiers thereon;
- FIGURE 5 is a block diagram of an embodiment of the RF/DOV modem illustrated in Figure 1;
- FIGURE 6 is a block diagram of an alternate embodi ⁇ ment of a patient identification system in accordance with the principles of the present invention.
- FIGURE 8 is a block diagram of an embodiment of the RF/PLC modem illustrated in Figure 5;
- FIGURE 9 is a block- diagram of an embodiment of the PLC modem illustrated in Figure 5;
- FIGURE 10 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a portable bar code reader device in accordance with the prin ⁇ ciples of the present invention;
- FIGURE 11 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a portable bar code reading device in accordance with the principles of the present invention
- FIGURE 12 is a perspective view of the embodiment of the bar code reading device illustrated in Figure 10 with the bar code reading device mounted in a wall-mounted rechargable housing unit
- FIGURE 13 is a block diagram of an embodiment of microcomputer architecture which might be utilized in accor ⁇ dance with the principles of the present invention
- FIGURE 14 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a multi-user software operating system which might be utilized in accordance with the principles of the present invention
- FIGURE 15 is a block diagram illustrating a possible arrangement of computer system input/output devices in accordance with the principles of the present invention
- FIGURE 16 is a diagrammatic illustration of an embodiment of a patient information data file
- FIGURE 17 is a diagrammatic illustration of an embodiment of a patient/drug data file
- FIGURE 13 is a diagrammatic illustration of an embodiment of an inventory data file
- FIGURE 19 is a diagrammatic illustration of an embodiment of a patient/item data file
- FIGURE 20 is a diagrammatic illustration of an embodiment of a patient/lab test data file
- FIGURE 22 is a block diagram of an embodiment of an RF transmitter unit including RF transmitter, control cir ⁇ cuitry, and power supply sealed in a protective media;
- FIGURE 23 is a block diagram of an embodiment of an RF transmitter unit including RF transmitter, control cir ⁇ cuitry, and power supply sealed in a protective media;
- FIGURE 24 is a functional flow diagram of an embodi ⁇ ment of a patient identification and location method in accordance with the principles of the present invention.
- FIGURE 26 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of a portable handheld patient terminal including optical bar code reader;
- FIGURE 27 is a side eievational view of the portable handheld patient terminal shown in Figure 26;
- FIGURE 30 is a perspective view of the portable handheld patient terminal shown in Figure 26 mounted in a base station;
- FIGURE 31 is a side view of the base station and its respective portable handheld patient terminal mounted thereon;
- FIGURE , 32 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the base station
- FIGURE 33 is a block diagram of one embodiment illustrating use by the recharging circuitry of a power supply temperature sensor
- the bar codes 50 on the patient's identification bracelet 52 will not be the same as the bar code 51 on the labels 53, such that the source of a bar code can be iden ⁇ tified as being a patient or as being an item relating to that patient.
- the RF modem 56 provides for transmission and reception of RF signals to and from the bar code reading device 48 and the DOVmodem 57 provides for transmission and reception of signals via in place, existing telephone wiring such as twisted pair or 4-wire to and from the computer system 42 using DOV technology.
- the RF/DOV modem transceivers 55 in the various hospital rooms are interconnected by separate telephone wires 60 such as twisted pair or 4-wire to a DOV modem/multiplexer (MUX) 62 located in. the hospital's telephone switching room 64.
- the DOV/MUX 62 is interconnected to a single port of the computer system 42, which is preferably a network port such as an ETHERNET port, by a hardwired connection 66.
- DOV technology enables transmission of data at rates of up to 19.2 kilobits •per second.
- limited distance modems might be used in conjunction with dedicated telephone wiring such as twisted pair or 4-wire and appropriate devices such as RS-422 drivers.
- the DOV/MUX 62 might transmit data to and from the computer system 42 at the. rate of 9600 baud or higher.
- the terminals 45 located remotely of the computer system 42 are interconnected to a DOV modem 68 which transmits data to and from the computer system 42 over existing twisted pair telephone wires 70 to DOV modem 72 located in the telephone switching room 64.
- the DOV modems 72 are interconnected by separate hardwired interconnects 74 to serial RS 232 ports of the computer system 42.
- FIG. 6 Illustrated in Figures 6 through 9 is an alternate. embodiment of the present invention wherein communications occur mostly over existing AC power lines and twisted pair wire.
- the bar code reader device 48 in this embodiment com ⁇ municates with an RF/power line carrier (RF/PLC) modem 90, an embodiment of which is illustrated in Figure 8.
- the RF/PLC modem 90 transmits data on existing AC power lines 92 to a power line carrier (PLC) modem 94, an embodiment of which is illustrated in Figure 9.
- PLC power line carrier
- the nurses' terminals 45a are interconnected by twisted pair wiring 96 to a twisted pair multiplexer 98, an embodiment of which is illustrated in Figure 7.
- the twisted pair wiring 96 provides for faster communication than the AC power lines.
- the twisted pair multiplexer 98 provides communication with the computer system 42 and/or with an existing hospital mainframe computer 100.
- the power line carrier (PLC) is a somewhat noisy medium which will necessitate a robust proto ⁇ col. Data bit errors encountered are usually burst errors where more than one bit is affected.
- This embodiment will preferably use a protocol involving the ' first three layers of the international standard organization standard.
- the PLC protocol will include individual addressing of devices, data field length and data similar to high level data link control (HDLC) , but unlike HDLC, the protocol will be asynchronous. Error detection will be via a sixteen bit CRC with the message being retransmitted when an error is detected.
- HDLC high level data link control
- Non-coherent frequency shift keying is preferably the modulation used, with 160-KHz being the ' operating frequency.
- the protocol to the computer system will be standard ASCII with one bit parity error detection.
- the PLC modem 94 will include a microprocessor such as the Z80 with a two Kbyte memory for handling the com ⁇ munications protocol between the AC power lines and the com- puter system.
- the LM1893 IC from National Semiconductor is used in the interface to the AC power lines and the RS232 driver is used in the interface to the computer system.
- the RF/PLC modem 90 will be located near the nurses' station and will relay information between the bar code reading device 48 and the PLC modem 94 near the computer system.
- a frequent error in UHF transmission is multi- pathing. This is caused by the RF signal bouncing off objects and arriving at the receiver as two out of phase signals. Multipathing could occur in the present invention
- the twisted pair multiplexer 98 enables the mainframe com- puter 100 and the computer system 42 to communicate with ter ⁇ minals at various locations. Preferably, in the event of a failure at the twisted pair multiplexer 98 or the computer system 42, normal communications are automatically set up between the mainframe 100 and the nurses' terminal 45a.
- the twisted pair multiplexer 98 will preferably not affect proto ⁇ cols of the mainframe 100 or the computer system 42. Data passed will be time division multiplexed and will reside in the twisted pair multiplexer's buffering memory during simultaneous transmissions.
- an embodi ⁇ ment of the bar code reading device 48 might include a programmed microprocessor 110, such as a Z80 and its asso ⁇ ciated memory and real time clock mounted in a hand held housing 112.
- the bar code reading device will preferably use low voltage battery power for portability and to prevent shocks to a patient.
- the bar code reading device 48 will preferably include an RF modem transceiver 124 and associated antenna 126 for transmission/reception of an RF signal.
- the bar code reading device 48 might include an infrared transmitter/receiver arrangement to enable transmission/reception of data as an infrared signal *
- the bar code reading device 48 might be mounted in a wall mounted recharging unit 128 when not in use to enable recharging of batteries which might be used to power the bar code reading device 48.
- the recharging unit 128 is interconnected to the AC power supply by an electrical cord 130.
- the RF/DOV modem 55 might be a part of the recharging unit 128.
- the key pad 114 includes a ten key arrangement for entry of numerals and the following special function keys: KEY DESCRIPTION
- TEMP Enables input of temperature .
- KEY DESCRIPTION DOS Enables input of drug dosages.
- HOLD Indicates patient data files are not to be updated; for. example, administration of a drug did not occur.
- CNCL Enables a series of entries to be can ⁇ celled.
- SEND Enables the transmission of data from the bar code reading dev.ice to the computer system.
- the computer system 42 might be an off-the-shelf item such as a 16/32 bit microcomputer designed for the multi-user UNIX operating system.
- a typical computer system hardware configuration is illustrated in Figure 13. Multiple communication processors might be utilized to provide sufficient throughput during the communication periods. Communication inputs and outputs might be via RS232 ports. Direct communication with the hospital's main-frame computer might be through a synchronous remote job entry facility with interactive emulation of a mainframe terminal.
- the computer system 42 will collect and coordinate the data received from the various terminals 45 and bar code reading' devices 48 and store the data in various patient/item data files for later reference and use.
- a network operating system will preferably be utilized which will allow users to interactively access files through a distributed file system.
- the network operating system will preferably use high level communication protocols which will be independent of the phy ⁇ sical network medium utilized, thereby providing ease in net- working to other parts of the hospital system which might have different protocols.
- the patient-unique bar code 50 identifier label will be affixed to the patient's identification bracelet 52 or will be printed on a special patient bracelet by the bar code printer 46b.
- the bar code identifier 50 on the patient's identification bracelet 52 will be different from that on the labels 53 to enable determination of whether a patient identifying bar code is being read from a patient's iden ⁇ tification bracelet 52 or from a label.
- the bar code 50 for the patient's identification bracelet 52 will be unique from the bar code 51 placed on the labels 53 in the patient's chart to ensure, for example, that it is actually the patient and not the patient's bar code that is receiving drug treat ⁇ ment.
- a secretary or other staff person After a physician writes a prescription prescribing a drug treatment for the patient, a secretary or other staff person will access from a terminal 45a a drug data file stored in the computer system 42 to display at the terminal 45a the list of drugs after scanning the patient identifier bar code 51 on the patient's chart. The staff person will then enter each scanned drug's dosage and frequency of admi ⁇ nistration via the terminal 45b. Many drugs have a standard dosage and quantity. These standard values can be stored in the appropriate drug data file of the computer system 42 along with the drug such that the dosages, etc. need not be separately entered if the prescription calls for a standard dosage. This enters into the computer system 42 the patient's name, drugs, dosage and times of day they are to be administered.
- the pharmacist If the pharmacist does not approve, he will change the prescription or take other appropriate action, such as talking to the responsible doc ⁇ tor. If approved, the pharmacist will then fill the prescription by scanning the drug's identification bar code. He will then scan a bar code in his identification badge indicating his approval. If a bar code identifying the drug is not already on the drug package, the pharmacist will take a pre-coded label and affix it to the drug. This might occur in the case of unit dosages not bar coded by the manufac- turer, in which case a sheet of bar codes might be provided which are perforated to the same package size specifications as the package of unit dosages.
- Scanning the drug identifier bar code on the drug package after scanning the patient's bar code will automati- cally enter and record the drug prescription as being approved for that particular patient and the MAR is updated. Dosage and times per day will be automatically displayed and subsequently printed. However, it will be appreciated that if the times per day for each drug are not stored in the com- puter system 42, this information can be manually entered at a terminal. Preferably, such things as known allergies for each patient have been previously entered into the patient's computer record such that any drug allergies for a particular patient will be flagged by the computer system and the phar- acist 'will be informed at the terminal 45c. Moreover, the computer system 42 might be programmed so as to flag any major drug inconsistencies or contradictions at the pharmacy terminal for pharmacy disposition.
- the com- puter system 42 will automatically record such an occurrence in an inventory file identifying all items which have been disposed of, thereby providing for accurate inventory control.
- An embodiment of such a data file is diagram ⁇ matically illustrated in Figure 18.
- MAR medical admi ⁇ nistration record
- a patient/drug schedule or assignment sheet might be printed for each nurse, giving names of patients, room numbers and drugs to be dispensed by time of day and dosage for each nurse's shift. Additionally, these records and schedule sheets can be printed at any time at the nurses' stations.
- the computer system 42 will mark the new drug.
- an alert will be received at the bar code reading device 43 unless the nurses and the pharmacist have both previously entered their personal iden ⁇ tifier bar codes to approve the new drug on the MAR.
- a spe ⁇ cial flag will be placed on the u ⁇ approved MAR to identify a larger than recommended normal dosage.
- a si i- lar alert will be received at the bar code reading device 48 if the dosage prescribed exceeds the maximum dosage specified in the computer system's data files and if the pharmacst and the nurse have not previously entered their personal iden ⁇ tifier bar codes.
- the bar code reading device 48 While checking a drug against the patient's -3-8- co puter stored data files to verify it properly corresponds to the patient, the bar code reading device 48 will pre ⁇ ferably light the ' amber status light 122b to indicate "in progress" or the words "IN PROGRESS" will be displayed on the liquid crystal display 116 of the bar code reading device 48. In certain instances, it may be necessary for the nurse to use the key pad 114 to enter dosages by use of the "DOS" key, such as in the case of custom made IV solutions or when the dose is other than a unit dose.
- the bar code reading device 48 might include an optional temperature, pulse and blood pressure cuff module, enabling temperature, pulse and blood pressure data to be directly obtained; however, the nurse can also enter the patient's vital signs via the key pad 114 on the bar code reading device 48.
- the bar code reading device 48 will store and will display upon request six to ten previously entered vital statistics by use of the recall key "R£C". This enables a new nurse coming on duty or a physician to access the syte when in the patient's room and review on the liquid crystal display 116 the ' ore recent vital signs.
- the bar code reading device will preferably store a record of the most recently administered PRN or other controlled drug administered to control pain or the like and the times they were administered. This . elimina ⁇ tes the need to track down the patient's records, which is an important benefit in times of emergency.
- scrolling keys might be provided to enable scrolling of the data.
- the bar code reading device 48 will preferably include a printer module enabling labels to be printed bed- side at a label printer 46e interconnected to the portable bar code reading device 48 such that a nurse can print bar code identifier labels as necessary; for example, a nurse might print a label for attachment to a test tube containing a patient's blood sample by scanning the patient's iden- tification bar code and' pressing a print key on the portable bar code reader 48.
- the green status light 122c or other appropriate readout on the LCD 116 will prompt the nurse to proceed. If there is a discrepancy, the red status light 122a might flash and/or some other appropriate readout might appear at the LCD display 116 indicating why the red status light 122a is on. The nurse may elect to override the warning at that time if she believes it is appropriate to administer the drug or take whatever actions she deems necessary. In such cases, a com ⁇ puter record of such events will be stored and will be available for review at a future time.
- the computer system 42 will automatically record such an occurrence in a patient billing file, identifying all ite s which are to be billed to the patient.
- An embodiment of such a file is diagrammatically illustrated in Figure 19.
- the billing data file is preferably accessible from a ter ⁇ minal 45f in the billing department.
- the nurses* terminal 45a will be alerted by the computer system 42 if a drug has not yet been given and is overdue, reminding the station staff to check with the appropriate nurse.
- the computer system 42 will cause a ptintout of the nurses' drugs and patient's names for the drugs overdue at the terminals associated with printer 46a.
- MAR MAR
- MAR new assignment sheet for each nurse
- printer 46a at the nurses' station.
- These hard copy reports will provide the nurse coming onto the shift with a record of what has been completed on the previous shift, what has not been completed and what treatment, the time for each treatment and which patient should be treated on the new shift.
- Additional terminals 46 might be utilized by the nurses to chart addi ⁇ tional information before going off their shift.
- a permanent MAR may be generated or demanded and placed in the patient's record. The physician can then review this hard copy or go to the nurses' station terminal and review the patient's current MAR on the screen.
- a narcotic-inventory is printed out, along with who dispensed narcotics, who received narcotics, the nurse(s) leaving the shift, the nurse(s) starting the new shift (who will undertake a physical narcotics count). If any deviations occur, they will have to be corrected via one of the terminals 45.
- the computer system 42 alerts the pharmacy to fill ' the drawer. When the drugs are placed in the narcotics cart drawer, the inventory level is again upgraded.
- a nurse or other staff person will scan the patient's identification bar code on the patient's chart, and scan or scroll for the bar code for the test required, which might be provided on a pre- printed sheet available at the nurses' station.
- a draw list will be printed out at a printer 46d instructing the lab staff which samples to draw from which patients.
- On each label will be the test's corresponding bar code iden ⁇ tifier and name. This label will then be affixed to the test tube or other container required for the test.
- the lab technician will scan a bar code identifier on his or her badge, scan the patient's iden ⁇ tification bar code on the patient's identification bracelet and scan the test bar code on the sample container.
- the com- puter system 42 will then indicate ' if this is the correct patient and the correct test by access to the lab test data file which correlates patients to specific lab tests to be performed.
- a diagrammatic illustration of such a file is illustrated in Figure 20. This process will take place in the patient's room.
- the technician will scan the patient's identifier bar code on the test sample, perform the test and enter the results into a lab test com ⁇ puter via the terminal 45d or automatically via the test instrument if applicable.
- the lab test results will be entered into an existing and separate lab test computer system which will perform the usual analysis, although the lab test computer will preferably be interconnected to the computer system 42 for exchange of data and recording of the test results.
- the lab will be assured that the sample being tested belongs to the correct patient and the results are recorded against the correct patient's data files.
- the system will automatically update the billing data file so the patient is billed for the test and will store the dates and times when the test(s) were undertaken for future reference.
- FIGS 21-35 illustrate alternate embodiments of the present invention.
- An RF transmitter unit 220 reprogrammable to transmit unique patient identifier information, is worn on the body of a patient, preferably mounted in a disposable standard plastic identification bracelet 222 typically worn by a patient in a health care institution ' and/or badges worn by personnel in the health care institution.
- the RF transmitter unit 220_might be mounted on suitable equipment and other moveable items within the health care institution so as to identify and track the items.
- RF signals transmitted by the patient-worn RF transmitter units 220 are received by a plurality of RF receiver units including stationary, known position RF receiver units 226 capable of receiving RF signals strategically located in hallways, dining areas, lounge areas, etc., as well as base stations 228, somewhat similar to' the transceiver units 55 of the previous embodi ⁇ ment, which in addition to being capable of receiving RF signals from the transmitter units 220, include a transceiver capability for communication with portable RF transceiver units mounted in portable handheld patient terminals (PHPT) 224, somewhat similar to the bar code reader devices 43 of the previous embodiment, carried by the health care staff and used when administering drugs, taking vital signs, etc.
- PHPT portable handheld patient terminals
- the preferred , embodiment of the RF transmitter unit 220 can- be made to change duty cycles or periodicity of RF transmission by use of proper handshaking signals with the reprogrammable control 234.
- the RF transmitter unit 220 might typically transmit in a low duty cycle mode of once every two seconds. This transmittal rate is more than adequate for locating a patient.
- the portable handheld patient terminal 224 in the preferred embodiment has the ability to change the duty cycle of the RF transmitter unit 220 to a high duty cycle such as twice every second. This might occur when the portable handheld terminal 224 is brought into close proximity with the RF transmitter 220.
- the RF transmitter unit 220 is reprogrammable so as to enable the patient identifier code transmitted by the RF transmitter unit 220 to be changed.
- the RF transmitter unit 220 is preferably reprogrammable several times throughout its lifetime. For example, if the RF transmitter unit 220 utili ⁇ zes a microprocesor with a fifteen bit data structure, each RF transmitter unit 220 could be reprogrammed sixty-four times per year and support five hundred beds for a total of 32,768 unique patient identifiers. It will be appreciated that more data bits could be added if needed; but the more bits used the more power consumed, and consequently the shorter the battery life.
- the power supply 232 will pre ⁇ ferably be a battery having a life of one year or more.
- the RF transmitter unit 220 might be built around a three hundred megahertz frequency, although other frequencies might be utilized in order to comply with appropriate govern ⁇ mental regulation.
- Various types of modulation such as pulse-position modulation (PPM) and frequency-shift keying (FSK) might be used.
- PPM pulse-position modulation
- FSK frequency-shift keying
- the fixed position RF receiver units 226,228 are interconnected to a programmed computer system 240 by telephone wiring 241 in a fashion similar to that of the previous embodiment.
- the RF receiver units 226,223 Upon receipt of a transmission from the transmitter unit 220, the RF receiver units 226,223 will transmit to the computer system 240 by data over voice (DOV) techniques using the telephone wiring 241.
- DOV data over voice
- the embodiment of the system illustrated in Figure 21 includes a DOV modem rack 250 housing a plurality of DOV modems in relatively close proximity to the computer system 240 and includes a corresponding DOV modem 250a for every RF receiver unit DOV modem transmitting to the computer system 240 over the telephone wiring 241.
- the DOV modems of the modem rack 250 are interconnected to a data switch/multiplexer arrangement 251 for multiplexing the numerous RF receiver DOV modem inputs into the few input/output channels 252 of the computer system 240.
- the computer system is illustrated as including memory devices 254, printer devices 256, and terminals 258.
- the computer system 240 is interconnected to remote dumb terminals 260 distributed throughout the health care facility.
- the terminal support unit (TSU) 262 provides an interface between the present invention and existing computer systems which might be present in the healthcare facility.
- the terminal support unit (TSU) will include.de four serial ?orts_ and one parallel port controlled by a programmed microprocessor and associated memory including read-only memory (ROM) .
- the RF receiver units 226,228 might use twisted pair wiring for communication to the com ⁇ puter system 240.
- driver and receiver circuitry might be used to provide RS-232 interface signals.
- a time division multiplexer might be used to interconnect multiple ones of the RF receiver units 226,228 to the computer system 240.
- a limited distance modem is another alternative for transmitting on the twisted pair wiring.
- Yet another method of communication to the central computer is using power line carrier (PLC) techniques for transmission over the AC wiring.
- PLC power line carrier
- a user wishing to locate an object can use the terminals 258,260 to enter the patient's name or unique identifier. This will activate the computer systam program which will then display at the terminal the location of the RF receiver unit 226,228 wherein the patient was last detected.
- An example display on the terminal might display patient name/identifier, location, e.g., dining room, and time at location.
- the terminal might display or a hard copy printout be made of the patient's movements over a user selected period of time and at a user selected time interval.
- the present inven ⁇ tion can- be used to identify patients, staff, drugs, supplies, etc. when administering drugs, taking vital signs, etc.
- the RF transmitter units 220 might be the primary means of identification or a secondary means for providing a second means of patient identification verification or backup.
- wireless electromagnetic transmissions in the radio frequency (RF) range have been discussed in the preferred embodiment, alternate types of wireless electro ⁇ magnetic transmissions might be utilized, e.g., infrared.
- the portable handheld terminal 320 is packaged in a portable handheld housing 322 having first and second spaced apart, opposing major surfaces 324,326, respectively, extending generally along the longitudinal axis of the portable handheld terminal 320 between first and second end portions 328 and 330, respectively.
- the first major surface 324 might also be referred to as the bottom surface, and the second major surface 326 might also be referred to as the top surface.
- the first end portion 328 might also be referred to as the front end portion, and the second end portion 330 might also be referred to as the back end portion.
- the handle portion 340 is interconnected to the housing 322 proximate the first end portion 328- is an elongated handle portion 340 which extends upwardly away from the second major surface 326 and backwardly generally along the longitudinal axis of the housing 322 toward the second end portion 330.
- the handle portion 340 includes an arcuate portion 342 and a substantially straight portion 344 which is spaced suf ⁇ ficiently far from the second surface 326 of the portable handheld terminal 320 so as to enable a user's hand 350 to grasp around the handle portion 340 with the user's fingers extending into the space between the handle- portion 340 and the second major surface 326 as illustrated in Figure 26.
- the handle portion 340 enables the terminal to be held in either hand during use.
- the handle portion 340 might be interconnected to the housing at both ends.
- the portable handheld terminal will preferably be made by conventional molded plastic processes.
- the portable handheld terminal 320 when seen from the back end portion 330, the portable handheld terminal 320 has a generally truncated pyramid shape, generally becoming narrower toward the top. As illustrated in phantom line in the embodiment shown in Figure 27, located proximate the first end portion 328 of the portable handheld terminal 320 is an optical sen ⁇ sor device 352 of a bar code reader. As illustrated in Figure 30, positioned on the handle 340 is a push button, contact switch 341 for activating the sensor device 352 via an appropriate electrical interconnection. The switch 341 will normally be in an off position and will return to the off position upon being released by the user.
- a liquid crystal display (LCD) 354 Disposed on the first major surface 324 is a liquid crystal display (LCD) 354 which in the embodiment shown is capable of displaying four lines of text, each line containing up to twenty charac ⁇ ters.
- LCD liquid crystal display
- a keyboard 356 is disposed on the first major surface 324.
- a membrane keypad is used.
- An embodiment of the keyboard is illustrated in Figure 35.
- the keyboard 356 include ⁇ des status lights 353, special function keys 360, and a numeric keypad 362.
- the portable handheld terminal 320 includes a micropro— cessor and associated memory 364.
- An example of one such microprocessor is an INTEL 3031.
- the portable handheld terminal includes an RF transceiver arrangement including an RF modem 366 and antenna 367 for real time data transmission and reception of RF signals.
- a co - munications port 363 including a ultipin connector is pre ⁇ sent for input of data to and output of data from the portable handheld terminal 320.
- the portable handheld ter ⁇ minal 320 is provided with additional memory so as to enable storage of data and downloading at a later time via the com- munications port 368.
- the portable handheld terminal 320 might store vital signs, drugs administered, etc.
- the optical sensor device 352 is preferably a binary imaging device such as a charged coupled device or optic RAM device; e.g., Hitachi Model No. HE97134.
- the opti ⁇ cal sensor device 352 includes an optical lens and a low- powered, high sensitivity light source 355 for illumination of the bar code indicia.
- the optical sensor device 352 includes an image capture device including an ⁇ - ⁇ array of light sensitive elements; e.g., a 2048 pixel array of light sensitive elements, which will provide a digital image of the bar code indicia being read.
- the present inven ⁇ tion will simply require the user to point the optical sensor device 352 of the portable handheld patient terminal 320 at the bar code indicia and press the switch 341 on the handle portion 340 to take an electronic digital "picture" of the bar code indicia.
- the electronic digital "picture” is then electronically interpreted by a microprocessor controlled decoder device 353. It will be appreciated that charged coupled devices and optic RAM-devices are commercially available.
- the portable handheld terminal 320 is used in conjunction with a wall mounted base station 376 for wireless communication with the: portable handheld terminal and for storage of the portable handheld terminal 320 during non-use.
- the base station in the embodiment shown includes an RF transceiver arrangement including an RF modem 379 and antenna 380 for communicating with the RF transceiver arrangement of the portable, handheld terminal 320.
- the base station 376 further includes a data over voice (DOV) modem 377 for data over voice communications over telephone wire to a computer system.
- DOV data over voice
- the base station 376 will include a central processor and memory 373 for.
- the base station 376 preferably derives its power from a transformer 381 interconnected to an AC power supply.
- the base station 376 includes a communications port 382 adapted for interconnection to the communications port 368 of the portable handheld terminal 320.
- the base station 376 includes non-volatile memory 386 which can be programmed to uniquely, address the base sta- tion 376.
- the base station 376 When the portable handheld terminal 320 is stored at the base station 376, the base station 376 will download its unique address or identifier via the communications ports 382,363 into the memory of the portable handheld terminal.
- the portable handheld terminal 320 When transmitting to the base station 376, the portable handheld terminal 320 will include this address or identifier ' with its transmissions. If the identifier is not recognized by the base station 376, the base- station will ignore the transmission and not respond. This prevents interference with the base station 376 by other portable handheld ter- minals 320 located throughout the facility.
- the portable handheld terminal is capable of programming the address or identifier of the base station 376.
- the base station 376 includes recharging circuitry 378 for charging the rechargeable power supply 375 of the portable handheld terminal 320.
- the recharging circuitry 378 is interconnected by a temperature sensor, a read relay 371, ounted to a battery cell in the rechargeable power supply 375 of the portable handheld terminal 320.
- the read relay 371 is mounted so as to provide sensing of the highest tem ⁇ perature in the battery pack.
- the relay 371 will have one lead connected to the positive terminal of the battery pack and ' the other lead provided to the recharging circuitry 378 through the communication ports 368,382.
- the recharging cir ⁇ cuitry 378 will check to see if the power supply 375 has reached a critical temperature (Tempi) as illustrated at block 394. If the critical temperature has been reached, then, as illustrated at block 395, the recharging circuitry 378 will switch into trickle charge mode. The recharging circuitry 378 will monitor the temperature such that if the temperature falls below a specified temperature (Temp2) as illustrated at block 396, the recharging circuitry 378 will go back to rapid charge mode if the power supply is not fully charged.
- Tempi critical temperature
- a status light 383 which varies in intensity between trickle charge and rapid charge so as to indicate the charging mode.
- the status light 383 will come on as soon as the portable handheld terminal 320 is properly inserted in the base sta ⁇ tion 376.
- the power supply 381 will preferably provide the following power outputs:
- the base station 376 might include a communications port 369 for interconnection to a printer.
- the power supply 373 in the portable handheld ter ⁇ minal might include removable batteries or a removable bat ⁇ tery pack stored in the handle portion 340 or between the surfaces 324,325 proximate the end portion 330.
- the communications ports 363,382 which might comprise a standard multipin type of interface connector.
- the communication ports might be utilized for diagnostic testing of the por ⁇ table handheld terminal 320.
- the base station 376 might include a biasing mechanism for forcing the portable handheld terminal 320 in a generally upward direction such that an edge 384 of the base station 376 cooperates with an inside wall 334 of the portable handheld terminal housing portion defining a window or opening 335 for an optical sensor 352.
- a wall 385 of the base station 376 might cooperate with a back wall 387 to define a cavity for receipt and retention of the back end portion 330 of the portable handheld terminal 320.
- the wall 385 slants at a slight angle away from the wall 387 so that the portable" handheld terminal 320 can be inserted downwardly with low insertion force into proper connection with the multiple pin connector of the communications port 382 and tilted outwardly to enable easy mounting and removal thereof from the base station 376.
- the mating connector arrangements of the com ⁇ munication ports 368,382 are capable of being connected numerous times.
- the base station 376 in addition. to communicating over existing telephone wiring, might communicate via twisted pair wiring in a serial interface fashion, as part of a local area network, or over the existing AC wiring using power line carrier (PLC) techniques, etc.
- PLC power line carrier
- the user will enter data at the handheld portable terminal 320 via the keyboard 356 and the optical bar code reader 352 and transmit the same as RF signals to the base station 376.
- the base station 375 will then communicate with the central computer system wherein master data files might be kept.
- the central computer system will, upon receiving the data, respond and provide output data to the base station 376 which will, in turn, communicate by RF signals to the portable handheld terminal 320.
- RF radio frequency
- the staff ID, drug cart ID, and patient ID will be removed from the memory of the portable-handheld patient terminal when access to functions is cancelled. If a function is in process when the "end/new patient” key is pressed, an audible alarm will sound.
- the portable handheld patient terminal can only be turned off by pressing the "end/new patient” key when- in the main menu.
- Data design to be entered via bar codes e.g., staff ID num ⁇ bers, patient ID numbers, supplies identification, drug iden ⁇ tification, drug cart identification, etc. cannot be entered via the keypad 356.
- Patient data such as vital signs, patient assessments, etc. can be entered via the keypad, as well as quantity items.
- the LCD display When the "MAIN" MENU" key is pressed, the LCD display will display a message to the operator. It will indicate that any data entered for the function they are in will be lost if it is not sent to the base station 376 and thence to the com ⁇ puter system before the "MAIN MENU” function is carried out. It will allow the operator to either go back to the function they were in, or go ahead with the "MAIN MENU” selec ⁇ tion.
- SEND The "SEND” key is used in conjunc ⁇ tion with the other keys to perform a function.
- the send key is pressed, data about the function desired to be performed is sent to the computer system via the base station 376. If the "SEND" key is accepted for input, a yellow LED 358a on the "SEND” key is lit.
- the amount of time between when the "COMMUNICATIONS ERROR" message has been displayed on the LCD display 354 and when the portable handheld patient terminal 320 is returned to the base station 376 is limited to 30 seconds.
- the time out feature is started again.
- the audible alarm will indicate to the operator that the communications to the host computer system is complete. If the portable handheld patient terminal is to be used again, such as for another function or to correct a red light condition, the timeout will be 30 seconds. The portable handheld patient terminal will have to be removed from the base before this happens.
- test samples had been recorded as taken from a patient, but are not.
- the "REVERSE ENTRY" key will place a minus (-) in front of the quantity field on the LCD display.
- NEXT SCRN The "NEXT SCRN" key can be used in functions which contain more than one screen of information. This key will allow the operator to view screens of information entered after than the screen presently displayed.
- the "(RIGHT ARROW)" key is used to move the cursor on the LCD display to the various fields for data entry. By pressing this key, the cursor will move to the first character location in the next field to the right, on the same line. - If there are no more fields_on the same line, the cursor will move to the left most field on the next line. If the cursor is in the last field on the last line, it will wrap around to the first field on the first line.
- the "(LEFT ARROW)" key is used to move the cursor on the LCD display to the various fields for data entry. By pressing this key, the cursor will move to the first character location in the next field to the left, on the same line. If there are no more fields on the same line, the cursor wi11 move to the right most field on the previous line. If the cursor is in the first field on the first line, it will wrap around to the last field on the last line.
- pressing the left arrow key will provide for editing of the data. It will function as a backspace key, and the characters will be erased from the field as the key is pressed. If all characters in a field are erased by using the left arrow as a backspace, the cursor jumps to the first character in the previous field.
- ENTER PAT DATA The "ENTER PAT DATA" is used to enter patient vital signs and patient assessment.
- the formatted display will be presented at the liquid crystal display for entry of the vital signs and patient assessment.
- the "DRUG CART" key is used to replenish and check out controlled drugs from the drug cart, and verify the drug cart inventory of controlled drugs.
- ADMIN DRUG The "ADMIN DRUG" key is used for patient and drug verification for drug administration.
- the "OTHER FUNC" key is used for patient and sample verification for taking of samples, billing for patient use of supplies, checking a patient into a new location, and displaying other functions which might be available on the system.
- the liquid crystal display (LCD) 354 will also provide information relating to the LEDs.
- the yellow LED 358a will be lit when the SEND key is pressed and will remain lit until communications with the base unit is complete. During this time, the user cannot make any entries at the 'keyboard.
- a red LED 358b is lit when infor ⁇ mation entered for a function desired does not match what is the correct information for that function, or when an invalid key is pressed.
- the red LED 358b is a warning not to proceed without first checking for a potential problem.
- the red LED will remain lit continuously under the first condition until some action is taken to remedy the problem.
- Under the second condition the red LED will remain lit while the LCD displays the invalid key pressed message.
- a green LED 358c is lit when a function is valid to proceed. The green LED is lit momentarily under this condition. The green LED is also lit when the central computer system acknowledges receipt of proper information. The green LED is lit continuously under this condition until some other action is taken.
- a yellow LED 358d will indicate the early warning of a low battery in the portable handheld patient terminal. This is an early warning level and the portable handheld patient terminal will still function. However, operation of the portable handheld patient terminal will be locked out when the batteries reach a level where the data in the patient history is corrupted. Before lock out occurs, the LCD display 354 will display a warning.
Abstract
Un système d'identification de patients permet de rapporter des articles à des patients et de s'assurer qu'un article identifié correspond à un patient identifié. Le système d'identification de patients comprend un système informatique (42) interconnecté à une pluralité de terminaux à distance (2) par des lignes téléphoniques conventionnelles (66, 70). Le système d'identification de patients comprend en outre un dispositif de lecture (48) portatif de codes à barres y compris un crayon lecteur (120) de codes à barres, un affichage à cristaux liquides (116) et un clavier (114). Le dispositif portatif de lecture de code à barres (48) communique par une transmission RF avec un modème RF/PLC (60). Le dispositif de lecture de code à barres (48) est utilisé pour lire le code à barres (50) particulier à chaque patient sur le bracelet d'identification (52) du patient, des codes à barre (51)inscrits sur des étiquettes (53) opposées sur différents articles dans l'hôpital et rapportant l'article à un patient spécifique et des codes à barre (49) sur des étiquettes (47) de ces articles de telle sorte que ces articles peuvent être automatiquement mis en rapport avec un patient spécifique et des contrôles peuvent être effectués par le système informatique (42) pour s'assurer que l'article correspond véritablement au patient identifié.A patient identification system is used to report items to patients and to ensure that an identified item matches an identified patient. The patient identification system includes a computer system (42) interconnected to a plurality of remote terminals (2) by conventional telephone lines (66, 70). The patient identification system further includes a portable bar code reader (48) including a bar code reader (120), a liquid crystal display (116) and a keyboard (114). The portable bar code reader (48) communicates by RF transmission with an RF / PLC model (60). The bar code reader (48) is used to read the bar code (50) specific to each patient on the patient's identification bracelet (52), bar codes (51) written on labels ( 53) opposite on different articles in the hospital and relating the article to a specific patient and bar codes (49) on labels (47) of these articles so that these articles can be automatically linked to a specific patient and checks can be performed by the computer system (42) to ensure that the item truly matches the identified patient.
Description
Claims
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US75727785A | 1985-07-19 | 1985-07-19 | |
US757277 | 1985-07-19 | ||
US86227886A | 1986-05-12 | 1986-05-12 | |
US862278 | 2001-05-22 |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP0230458A1 true EP0230458A1 (en) | 1987-08-05 |
EP0230458A4 EP0230458A4 (en) | 1990-12-27 |
Family
ID=27116362
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP19860904675 Withdrawn EP0230458A4 (en) | 1985-07-19 | 1986-07-14 | Patient identification and verification system and method |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP0230458A4 (en) |
CA (1) | CA1261968A (en) |
WO (1) | WO1987000659A1 (en) |
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US4991091A (en) * | 1988-08-23 | 1991-02-05 | Gregory Allen | Self-contained examination guide and information storage and retrieval apparatus |
US5008340A (en) * | 1988-12-21 | 1991-04-16 | Raychem Corporation | Curable adhesives |
US5193855A (en) * | 1989-01-25 | 1993-03-16 | Shamos Morris H | Patient and healthcare provider identification system |
DE69034101T2 (en) * | 1989-06-07 | 2005-06-09 | Broadcom Corp., Irvine | HAND-HELD DATA ACQUISITION SYSTEM WITH INTERCHANGEABLE MODULES |
US5029183A (en) * | 1989-06-29 | 1991-07-02 | Symbol Technologies, Inc. | Packet data communication network |
US5142550A (en) * | 1989-06-29 | 1992-08-25 | Symbol Technologies, Inc. | Packet data communication system |
NL8902554A (en) * | 1989-10-16 | 1991-05-16 | Nedap Nv | INFORMATION STORAGE AND MONITORING SYSTEM FOR HEALTH CENTERS. |
CA2027000A1 (en) * | 1990-10-05 | 1992-04-06 | J. Paul S. Roney | Point of care nursing system |
JPH05506177A (en) * | 1991-02-15 | 1993-09-16 | イーストマン・コダック・カンパニー | Computerized radiographic patient identification system |
US5272318A (en) * | 1991-11-18 | 1993-12-21 | Novatek Medical Inc. | Electronically readable medical locking system |
GB9221074D0 (en) * | 1992-10-07 | 1992-11-18 | Guryel Ali | Attendance registration system by radio link |
US5502944A (en) * | 1993-12-03 | 1996-04-02 | Owen Healthcare, Inc. | Medication dispenser system |
AU5657894A (en) * | 1993-12-14 | 1995-07-03 | Peter Victor Devito | Bar code data communication via power lines |
US5612870A (en) * | 1994-12-30 | 1997-03-18 | Ortho Pharmaceutical Corporation | System for tracking secure medical test cards |
US7384410B2 (en) | 1995-03-13 | 2008-06-10 | Cardinal Health 303, Inc. | System and method for managing patient care |
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US20110301982A1 (en) * | 2002-04-19 | 2011-12-08 | Green Jr W T | Integrated medical software system with clinical decision support |
US6994249B2 (en) * | 2003-05-27 | 2006-02-07 | Cardinal Health Technologies, Llc | System and method for drug management utilizing transferable labels |
JP3964354B2 (en) * | 2003-06-11 | 2007-08-22 | ジーイー・メディカル・システムズ・グローバル・テクノロジー・カンパニー・エルエルシー | Medical diagnostic equipment |
US8374887B1 (en) | 2005-02-11 | 2013-02-12 | Emily H. Alexander | System and method for remotely supervising and verifying pharmacy functions |
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US20090319561A1 (en) | 2005-10-21 | 2009-12-24 | Daphne Roswita Hosp | Arrangement and a Method for Delivering a Lost Object to a User, And An Arrangement and a Method of Providing a Finder of An Identification Item With User Data |
JP5570240B2 (en) | 2010-02-22 | 2014-08-13 | アークレイ株式会社 | DATA OUTPUT METHOD, ANALYSIS DEVICE, ANALYSIS SYSTEM, PROGRAM FOR IMPLEMENTING THE METHOD, AND STORAGE MEDIUM FOR THE PROGRAM |
US9930297B2 (en) | 2010-04-30 | 2018-03-27 | Becton, Dickinson And Company | System and method for acquiring images of medication preparations |
JP6503456B2 (en) | 2014-09-08 | 2019-04-17 | ベクトン・ディキンソン・アンド・カンパニーBecton, Dickinson And Company | An aerodynamically streamlined enclosure for an input device of a drug preparation system |
CN113946190A (en) * | 2021-10-19 | 2022-01-18 | 王玮 | Cloud computing device for detecting time of patient lying in bed |
CN116698018B (en) * | 2023-08-08 | 2023-10-13 | 山西戴德测控技术股份有限公司 | Navigation positioning auxiliary device and coal mine tunnel navigation positioning system |
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- 1986-07-14 EP EP19860904675 patent/EP0230458A4/en not_active Withdrawn
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US3566365A (en) * | 1968-09-12 | 1971-02-23 | Searle Medidata Inc | Multiphasic medical screening system |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CA1261968A (en) | 1989-09-26 |
WO1987000659A1 (en) | 1987-01-29 |
EP0230458A4 (en) | 1990-12-27 |
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