WO2016176042A1

WO2016176042A1 - Systems and methods for providing note-taking surfaces on infusion pumps

Info

Publication number: WO2016176042A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/027254
Authority: WO
Inventors: James B. DROST; Stacy A. SCHULTZ; Eric J. WILKOWSKE
Original assignee: Smiths Medical Asd, Inc.
Priority date: 2015-04-27
Filing date: 2016-04-13
Publication date: 2016-11-03

Abstract

An infusion pump can include a receptacle configured to receive a syringe and a receptacle flap that can be pivotably attached to the pump. The receptacle flap can be pivotable between an open mode and a closed mode, where in the closed mode, the receptacle flap is in a position that substantially inhibits access to the receptacle and to the syringe received by the receptacle, and in the open mode, the receptacle flap is in a position that enables access to the receptacle and to the syringe received by the receptacle. The receptacle flap can include a surface structured for erasably marking with a compatible marking device.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING NOTE-TAKING SURFACES

ON INFUSION PUMPS

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to infusion pumps, and more particularly, to systems and methods for providing note-taking surfaces on infusion pumps.

BACKGROUND

Infusion pumps are useful medical devices for providing medicaments to patients. For example, medications such as antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and pain relievers are commonly delivered to patients via infusion pumps, as are nutrients and other supplements. Infusion pumps have been used in hospitals, nursing homes, and in other short-term and long- term medical facilities, as well as for in-home care. Infusion pumps can be particularly useful for the delivery of medical therapies requiring an extended period of time for their administration. There are many types of infusion pumps, including large volume, patient- controlled analgesia (PCA), ambulatory, elastomeric, syringe, enteral, and insulin pumps. Infusion pumps are typically useful in various routes of medicament delivery, including intravenously, intra-arterially, subcutaneously, intradermally, intraperitoneally, in close proximity to nerves, and into an intraoperative site, epidural space or subarachnoid space.

Caregivers using infusion pumps often need or wish to keep track of multiple pieces of information, for example, relating to medicaments being used with the pump, patient care, and so on. Retaining and organizing such transient information can be a challenge. In view of the goal of simplifying caregiver workloads, it would be desirable to provide systems and methods for providing note-taking surfaces on infusion pumps.

SUMMARY

In an illustrative but non-limiting example, the disclosure provides an infusion pump that can include a receptacle configured to receive a syringe and a receptacle flap that can be pivotably attached to the pump. The receptacle flap can be pivotable between an open mode and a closed mode, where in the closed mode, the receptacle flap is in a position that substantially inhibits access to the receptacle and to the syringe received by the receptacle, and in the open mode, the receptacle flap is in a position that enables access to the receptacle and to the syringe received by the receptacle. The receptacle flap can include a surface structured for erasably marking with a compatible marking device.

In some embodiments, the pump can include a flap latch configured to selectively constrain the receptacle flap to the closed mode. In some instances, the pump can include a clamp assembly configured to releasably secure the syringe in the receptacle, where the clamp assembly is structured also to function as the flap latch.

In some embodiments, the pump can include a flap release mechanism configured to enable the receptacle flap to be selectively attached to and separably released from the pump. The flap release mechanism can include an attachment portion of the receptacle flap and a flap attachment point fixed relative to the pump, with the attachment portion and the flap attachment point being configured to reversibly mate.

In some cases, the flap release mechanism can be configured to be actuatable to selectively release the receptacle flap relative to the pump only when the receptacle flap is in the open mode, and not actuatable to release the receptacle flap when the receptacle flap is in the closed mode.

In some cases, the flap release mechanism can be configured to be actuatable to selectively release the receptacle flap relative to the pump without use of any tool.

In some cases the attachment portion of the receptacle flap can be structured with at least one subcomponent that moves between a first position and a second position, such that when the receptacle flap is attached and secured to the pump, the at least one subcomponent is deployed in the first position, and when the receptacle flap is configured to be attachable and detachable relative to the pump, the at least one subcomponent is deployed in the second position.

In some cases, the flap attachment point can be structured with at least one subcomponent that moves between a first position and a second position, such that when the receptacle flap is attached and secured to the pump, the at least one subcomponent is deployed in the first position, and when the pump is configured for the flap to be attachable and detachable relative to the pump, the at least one subcomponent is deployed in the second position.

In another illustrative but non-limiting example, the disclosure provides a selectively removable flap configured to selectively attach to an infusion pump proximal a syringe receptacle of the infusion pump. The selectively removable flap cab include a cover portion dimensioned to inhibit access to the syringe receptacle and to a syringe received by the receptacle when the selectively removable flap is positioned in a closed mode, with the cover portion including a surface structured for erasably marking with a compatible marking device. The selectively removable flap can also include an attachment portion fixed relative to the cover portion and structured to mate with a flap attachment point of the infusion pump. Together, the attachment portion and the flap attachment point can provide a flap release mechanism configured to enable the selectively removable flap to be selectively attached to and separably released from the infusion pump. The flap release mechanism can be configured to enable the selectively removable flap to move between the closed mode and an open mode, where in the open mode, the cover portion is positioned to enable access to the receptacle and to the syringe received by the receptacle. In some cases, the cover portion can be substantially non-planar and shaped to conform in part to a shape of the syringe received by the receptacle. In some instances, the flap release mechanism can be configured to be actuatable to selectively release the receptacle flap relative to the pump only when the receptacle flap is in the open mode, and not to be actuatable to selectively release the receptacle flap when the receptacle flap is in the closed mode. In some examples, the flap release mechanism can be configured to be actuatable to selectively release the receptacle flap relative to the infusion pump without use of any tool.

In yet another illustrative but non-limiting example, the disclosure provides an infusion pump that can include a pump mechanism configured to deliver an infusate to a patient, a housing containing at least part of the pump mechanism, and a stack attached to and generally conforming to a surface of the housing. The stack can include a bottom-most layer attached to the surface of the housing and a plurality of substantially identical removable overlying layers, with each of the overlying layers being removably adhered to an immediately underlying layer, and each of the overlying layers being structured for marking with a compatible marking device. In some cases, each of the overlying layers can be structured for erasably marking with a compatible erasable marking device.

In still another illustrative but non-limiting example, the disclosure provides an infusion pump that can include a pump mechanism configured to deliver an infusate to a patient, a housing containing at least part of the pump mechanism, and a replaceable layer removably attached to and generally conforming to a surface of the housing, the replacable layer being structured for marking with a compatible marking device. In some cases, the replaceable layer can be structured for erasably marking with a compatible erasable marking device.

In still yet another illustrative but non-limiting example, the disclosure provides an infusion pump that can include a pump mechanism configured to deliver an infusate to a patient, a note-taking surface, and a backlight configured to illuminate the note-taking surface, thereby rendering markings on the note-taking surface visible in darkened surroundings. The note-taking surface can be structured for at least one of erasably marking with a compatible marking device, and/or receiving a replaceable layer, with the replacable layer being structured for marking with a compatible marking device. In some cases, the note-taking surface can overlay, at least in part, at least part of a dynamic display of the pump. In some cases, the note-taking surface can adjoin a dynamic display of the pump. In some examples, the backlight also can illuminate a dynamic display of the pump. In some examples, the pump can include the replaceable layer, with the replaceable layer being removably attached to the note-taking surface.

The above summary is not intended to describe each and every example or every implementation of the disclosure. The Description that follows more particularly exemplifies various illustrative embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The following description should be read with reference to the drawings. The drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, depict several examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The disclosure may be more completely understood in consideration of the following description with respect to various examples in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic front perspective view of an example of a syringe pump having a syringe receptacle flap;

Figure 2 is a schematic front perspective view of the syringe pump of Figure 1 with some features shown in other functional states;

Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of another example of a syringe pump with a syringe receptacle flap;

Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view showing details of a receptacle flap detached from the pump illustrated in Figures 1 and 2; and

Figure 5 is a schematic illustration of an example of a stack of peel-off note-taking surfaces.

DESCRIPTION The present disclosure is related to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/086,551, "SYRINGE INFUSION PUMP SECURITY," which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

The following description should be read with reference to the drawings, in which like elements in different drawings may be numbered in like fashion. The drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, depict selected examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. Although examples of construction, dimensions, and materials may be illustrated for the various elements, those skilled in the art will recognize that many of the examples provided have suitable alternatives that may be utilized.

With reference to the foregoing Background description, caregivers using infusion pumps often also work in fast paced, dynamic environments. Much of the information that they need to do their jobs is transient in nature, and it is a common practice to write down notes and affix the notes to locations at or close to where the information is needed. Caregivers have been known to affix notes to infusion pumps with adhesive tape, to use tape itself as a writing substrate, and to use products such as 3M "Post-It" brand notes which may be temporarily affixed to the pumps. These solutions have various shortcomings. The adhesives used can have undesirable characteristics, such as being prone to leaving behind sticky residue, or not having sufficient adhesion, which can result in lost notes. The notes may also unintentionally cover or otherwise partially or totally obscure user interfaces and displays on the pumps. Also, supplies for notes (paper, tape, etc.) may not always be readily available for caregiver use. As solutions to these shortcomings, the present disclosure provides systems and methods for providing note-taking surfaces on infusion pumps. Some of the solutions offered herein integrate note-taking surfaces with infusion pumps. Although syringe pumps are disclosed herein, any infusion pump could benefit from the subject matter of this disclosure.

Figures 1 and 2 are schematic front perspective views of an example of an infusion pump embodied as a syringe pump 100. Some features of syringe pump 100 can be similar to those of pumps described in the aforementioned U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/086,551, some of which are directed toward improving syringe security. Syringe pump 100 can include any compatible feature described in the aforementioned provisional patent application, but it is not necessary for corresponding features of pump 100 to be the same as those of that provisional patent application, and such features of systems and methods for providing note-taking surfaces on infusion pumps, as described by example or otherwise contemplated herein, may differ therefrom. In Figure 1, pump 100 is illustrated in what may be deemed a secure state, in which some features of pump 100 are active or otherwise positioned or deployed to provide security for syringe 102, which is illustrated as being operatively mounted to the pump. In Figure 2, pump 100 is illustrated with some features in alternate states, relative to the configuration of Figure 1. In the following description, some cited features are more readily viewed in one or the other of Figures 1 and 2, and inspection of both Figures 1 and 2 may result in a better appreciation of the features of pump 100.

Syringe pump 100 can include a housing 104 generally enclosing an interior space and defining a space exterior to housing 104. Pump 100 can include a receptacle 106 configured to receive a syringe such as syringe 102. Receptacle 106 can be formed integrally with housing 104, although this is not necessary, and the receptacle can be provided on the outside of housing 104, although such arrangement also is not necessary. Syringe 102 can be coupled to a line set or infusate tubing 103, through which medicaments and other infusates can be delivered from a reservoir of syringe 102.

Syringe pump 100 can include a pusher device 130 configured to couple to a thumb press 120 of plunger 118 of syringe 102. When delivering an infusate, pump 100 can drive pusher device 130 to exert a force on thumb press 120, thereby moving plunger 118 to expel contents of syringe 102 in an action of, for example, delivering the infusate to the patient through tubing 103.

Syringe pump 100 can include a retention mechanism configured to inhibit removal of syringe 102 from receptacle 106 when in an engaged state, and permit, allow, enable, or not inhibit removal of the syringe from the receptacle when in a disengaged state. In various configurations of pump 100, the retention mechanism can include different components or combinations of components. In some examples, the retention mechanism can include a clamp assembly 108 configured to releasably secure syringe 102 in receptacle 106. Clamp assembly 108 can include a clamp grip 110 configured to bear against a barrel of syringe 102 as shown in Figure 1. A portion 111 of clamp grip 110 that is configured to bear directly against the barrel of syringe 102 can have any suitable shape, such as a V-shape or a cupped- shape to facilitate clamping action of grip 110 against the barrel of syringe 102. When bearing against syringe 102, clamp grip 110 can exert a retaining force on syringe 102 into receptacle 106 and toward an inside space of housing 104. This can correspond to the engaged state of the retention mechanism. In Figure 1, clamp grip 110 is illustrated as bearing against the barrel of syringe 102. Clamp assembly 108 can include a clamp arm 112 connected to clamp grip 110. Clamp arm 112 can be slidably mounted relative to housing 104 such that clamp grip 110 is translatable both inwardly and outwardly relative to housing 104. In Figure 2, clamp arm 112 and clamp grip 110 are illustrated as being translated outwardly relative to housing 104, such that clamp grip 110 is not bearing against the barrel of syringe 102. Clamp assembly 108 also can be structured so that clamp grip 110 can be rotated, as illustrated in Figure 2, although providing such rotational freedom is not required. Rotating clamp grip 110 may be useful for positioning it away from syringe receptacle 106 when a user wishes to remove or place a syringe therein.

If clamp arm 112 and clamp grip 110 are translated outwardly relative to housing 104, grip 110 may not securely retain syringe 102 in receptacle 106. Clamp assembly 108 can include a clamp lock mechanism (not shown in Figures 1 and 2) configured to releasably maintain clamp arm 112 at a syringe retention position where clamp grip 110 exerts the retaining force to secure syringe 102 in receptacle 106. An example of a clamp lock mechanism is described in further detail in the aforementioned U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/086,551. When clamp arm 112 is maintained inwardly at the syringe retention position, the retention mechanism can be considered to be constrained to the engaged state.

Syringe pump 100 can include, in some examples, a receptacle flap 114 that is pivotably attached to pump 100. In some examples, receptacle flap 114 is pivotably attached to housing 104. Receptacle flap 114 can be pivotable between a closed mode and an open mode. In the closed mode, shown for example in Figure 1, receptacle flap 114 can be in a position that substantially inhibits or prevents access to receptacle 106 and syringe 102 located therewithin. In the closed mode, receptacle flap 114 (more particularly, a cover portion 115 of flap 114) can substantially cover receptacle 106 and cover at least a substantial portion of syringe 102, when syringe 102 is located in receptacle 106. In the open mode, shown for example in Figure 2, cover portion 115 of receptacle flap 114 can be in a position or range of positions that substantially permit, allow, enable, or clear access to receptacle 106 and to syringe 102 therewithin.

When manual access to receptacle 106 and syringe 102 is substantially inhibited by flap 114 in the closed mode, flap 114 may physically obstruct or otherwise prevent touching all or part of the barrel of syringe 102, attaching/detaching or otherwise interacting with an attachment between syringe 102 and tubing 103, removing/placing syringe 102 from/in receptacle 106, or any other manner of access to syringe 102 that may be desirable to limit. Conversely, when manual access to receptacle 106 and syringe 102 is permitted, allowed, enabled, or cleared with flap 114 in the open mode, syringe 102 may be manually touched, removed from receptacle 106, placed in receptacle 106, attached/detached from tubing 103, and the like. Although illustrated as extending substantially across receptacle 106 (along a longitudinal axis of syringe 102), it is to be appreciated and understood that in a particular embodiment cover portion 1 15 of flap 1 14 might extend across only a relatively smaller portion of receptacle 106, or have any suitable length or shape. Similarly, although cover portion 1 15 of flap 1 14 as illustrated in Figure 1 does not extend entirely around the barrel of syringe 102 (generally in the vertical or up/down directions relative to Figure 1), it could be taller or shorter or could have any suitable shape, and could, for example, essentially obstruct a large majority of receptacle 106. Different shapes of flaps could be provided, for use with different syringe sizes and/or applications. Any suitable flap dimensions can be used. Cover portion 1 15 of flap 1 14 can be substantially non-planar and can be shaped to conform in part to a shape of asyringe, such as syringe 102, received by receptacle 106. In some examples, flap 1 14 can include a substantially planar or flat portion sized to provide a useful note-taking surface, as discussed further herein.

In some cases, receptacle flap 1 14 can form at least part of the retention mechanism of pump 100. In configurations where pump 100 includes receptacle flap 1 14 and clamp assembly 108, both components can work together as part of the retention mechanism. Clamp assembly 108 can be structured to constrain receptacle flap 1 14 to the closed mode when engaged to secure syringe 102 in receptacle 106. More specifically, in some examples clamp grip 1 10 of clamp assembly 108 can include structure (e.g., a left portion 1 16 of grip 1 10 in Figure 1) that overlaps with receptacle flap 1 14 in the closed mode when grip 1 10 is positioned to bear against the barrel of syringe 102, thereby interfering with or otherwise inhibiting rotation of flap 1 14 to the open mode, and thus constraining flap 1 14 to the closed mode. When clamp grip 1 10 is retracted outwardly away from syringe 102, receptacle 106, and housing 104, as depicted in Figure 2, grip 1 10 may be positioned such that it does not interfere with rotation of flap 1 14 between the closed and open modes and thus does not constrain flap 1 14 to the closed mode. In some other examples, a component of clamp assembly 108 other than clamp grip 1 10 can be configured to constrain flap 1 14 to the closed mode when grip 1 10 is bearing against the barrel of syringe 102. When configured to selectively constrain flap 1 14 to the closed mode, clamp assembly 108 can be considered to function as a flap latch.

While syringe pump 100 of Figures 1 and 2 can be configured such that receptacle flap 1 14 can be constrained to the closed mode by clamp assembly 108, it is contemplated that pumps can be configured to constrain receptacle flaps with other mechanisms. Figure 3 is a schematic front perspective view of an infusion pump 300 having a receptacle 306 and a receptacle flap 314 pivotably coupled to a pump housing 304. Pump 300 can include a flap latch 318 configured to selectively constrain receptacle flap 314 in the closed mode. Flap latch 318 can include an undulating or repetitively ridged shape, as illustrated, with multiple possible interference points that can provide for constraining receptacle flap 314 at multiple possible positions along latch 318 to accommodate, for example, multiple possible syringe sizes, although this is not limiting and latch 318 can take any suitable shape. Flap 314 and latch 318 can form at least part of the retention mechanism of pump 300.

Other possible mechanisms for constraining a receptacle flap to a closed mode are contemplated. For example, a locking mechanism could be incorporated into a receptacle flap hinge (not shown). Any suitable locking mechanisms for receptacle flaps can be used.

It is to be appreciated and understood that illustrative syringe pump 300 of Figure 3 is structured with syringe receptacle 306 provided toward a bottom portion of housing 304, whereas illustrative syringe pump 100 of Figures 1 and 2 is structured with syringe receptacle 106 provided toward a top portion of housing 104. While there may be relative advantages and disadvantages in some aspects with regard to top or bottom placement of syringe receptacles in various pump configurations, in general the novel and inventive features of the present disclosure may be practiced without particular regard to such placement.

It is also to be appreciated and understood that a receptacle flap need not necessarily be permanently, or even quasi -permanently, attached to its respective pump. For example, as illustrated in Figure 2 receptacle flap 114 can be pivotably attached to syringe pump 100 via a flap release mechanism that is configured to enable flap 114 to be selectively attached to and separably released from pump 100. Any suitable flap release mechanism can be employed.

Some aspects of the flap release mechanism of pump 100 may be discerned in Figures 1 and 2, and in Figure 4 which is a schematic front perspective view of receptacle flap 114 detached from pump 100. The flap release mechanism can include components on or of both receptacle flap 114 and pump 100. As shown in Figure 4, flap 114 can include an attachment portion 121 fixed relative to cover portion 115 of flap 114. In some examples, all or part of the attachment portion of a receptacle flap can be formed integrally or monolithically with the cover portion of the flap (for example, in a molding process) although this is not required. Attachment portion 121 of flap 114 can be structured to reversibly mate with a flap attachment point 122 of infusion pump 100 that is fixed relative to pump 100. Either or both of attachment portion 121 and flap attachment point 122 can be structured with at least one moving subcomponent. For example, receptacle flap 114 as illustrated includes left-side and right-side moving pins 123 that can be slidingly moved or deployed outwardly and inwardly between first and second positions, with the outward first position corresponding to a state where the flap release mechanism is configured to secure flap 114 to pump 100, and the inward second position corresponding to a state where the flap release mechanism is configured to enable flap 114 to be attachable and detachable relative to pump 100. Pins 123 are shown in the inward second position in Figure 2, and the outward first position in Figure 4. Referring to Figure 4, if pins 123 were deployed in the inward second position (not as illustrated), then outer-most parts of pins 123 could be flush or nearly flush with relatively larger-diameter circular end faces of attachment portion 121 of flapl 14. This arrangement, of course, is merely one example of a configuration for a flap release mechanism. In some configurations, the flap attachment point of the pump can include moving subcomponents deployable between first (flap secured) and second (flap non-secured) positions, possibly with the attachment portion of the receptacle flap essentially not having moving subcomponents. In some flap release mechanism configurations, the attachment portion of the flap can be structured to remain in a same configuration whether the flap release mechanism is configured to secure the flap to the pump, or is configured to enable the flap to be attachable and detachable relative to the pump.

Flap release mechanisms can be designed to be easily operated by a user of pump 100. In the interest of syringe security, in some configurations the flap release mechanism is actuatable to selectively attach and release receptacle flap 114 relative to pump 100 only when flap 114 is disposed in the open mode, and is not so actuatable when flap 114 is disposed in the closed mode. In Figure 2, with receptacle flap 114 disposed in the open mode, features of the flap release mechanism such as moving pins 123 can be exposed to a user and can be manipulable to release or secure the flap; in Figure 1, with receptacle flap 114 disposed in the closed mode, the same features of the release mechanism are not exposed and in effect are inaccessible to a user for manipulation. The flap release mechanism can be structured to be manipulable by an end user without the use of any tool. Alternately, in some cases, the flap release mechanism can be structured to require the use of a tool or tools for releasing receptacle flap 114 from pump 100 and/or securing the receptacle flap to the pump.

Although not illustrated in Figure 3, it is to be understood that receptacle flap 314 and other contemplated flaps can likewise be configured similarly with release mechanisms.

Once receptacle flap 114 has been detached, it or another compatible receptacle flap may be (re-)attached to pump 100 via the flap release mechanism. The ability to remove and/or change receptacle flap 114 easily may provide valuable adaptability to pump 100. In some embodiments, it may be desired to not have a receptacle flap at all. In other embodiments, various receptacle flaps can provide various functionality to pump 100 for various applications and/or practitioner preferences. For example, in use of syringe pumps that do not involve controlled substances, a receptacle flap might not be configured to be constrainable to a closed mode. Whereas receptacle flap 1 14 of syringe pump 100 of Figures 1 and 2 can be configured such that it can be constrained to the closed mode by clamp assembly 108, a non-security receptacle flap could be structured differently (e.g., with a different shape) such that the clamp assembly does not interfere with or otherwise constrain the rotation of the non-security receptacle flap regardless of the position of the clamp assembly, including when the clamp grip is bearing against the barrel of the syringe. In such a configuration, the receptacle flap might not constitute part of the syringe retention system of the infusion pump.

Receptacle flap 1 14 can be formed from opaque, transparent, or translucent material, in any suitable color. Color can be used to color-code a syringe pump as being intended for a particular use, using colors that are by convention associated with particular therapies. For example, the color orange is often associated with enteral infusions, and the color yellow is often associated with epidural infusions. It should be noted that these color associations are not universal and may vary between hospitals, institutions, regions, practices, etc. The ability to easily attach a customized receptacle flap can enable a caregiving organization to adapt the pump to the particular needs or desires of the organization. Receptacle flaps could be further customized with printed, molded, engraved, or otherwise imparted symbols, text, or any other desired marks.

Optical functionality can be provided with receptacle flaps. Transparent and/or translucent receptacle flaps can provide a window through which a syringe may be viewed, providing a user with a direct visual path to assess the current status of the syringe. All or a portion of a transparent flap can be configured as a magnifier to assist visual inspection of a syringe. In some examples, a transparent and/or translucent receptacle flap can also be used as a lens or other optic to direct or otherwise manage light used to illuminate the syringe or other aspects of the pump. For example, a receptacle flap could be used as a light guide by injecting light into an edge of the flap, and extraction features patterned into the flap could direct light out of the flap and toward the syringe. For example, a configuration for placement of light emitters 129 of pump 100 to provide light in conjunction or cooperation with flap 1 14 is illustrated in Figure 4. Although not explicitly illustrated in the drawings, it is to be further appreciated and understood that receptacle flap 1 14 can be structured to provide one or more convenient note- taking surfaces. In some embodiments, cover portion 1 15 of receptacle flap 1 14 can include a note-taking surface. An outer surface and/or an inner surface of cover portion 1 15 of receptacle flap 1 14 can be structured as a note-taking surface. Note-taking surfaces can be structured for marking with a compatible marking device, such as a pen, pencil, etc. In some embodiments, note-taking surfaces can be structured for erasably marking with a compatible erasable marking device. Erasable marking devices can include dry-erase ink, pencil lead, or any other suitable marking media. For erasable marking, all or part of the receptacle flap can be formed from an erasable material, or coated with an erasable material, or otherwise include a surface having an erasable material. Markable and/or erasably-markable surfaces can include, without limitation, melamine surfaces, polymer-coated metals or other substrates, enameled metals, porcelains, hardened laminates, painted surfaces, or any other suitable materials, including those used in white-boards, dry-erase boards, and the like.

Including a note-taking surface with receptacle flap 1 14 can provide a number of benefits. Providing a note-taking surface in close proximity to the infusate-containing syringe can, by proximity, imply an association of a note or notes written on the surface with the syringe. With a transparent receptacle flap 1 14, a marking or markings could be made on the note-taking surface of the receptacle flap overlying the syringe that directly correspond to volume markings of the syringe. An illuminated flap (e.g., lit by light emitters 129) could backlight a note or notes written on it, rendering them visible in low-light conditions.

Other locations for note-taking surfaces are contemplated in the present disclosure. For example, a portion or portions of housing 104 could be used for a note-taking surface or surfaces, so long as the surface or surfaces can be structured for marking with a compatible marking device, and particularly, for erasably marking with a compatible erasable marking device. Some surfaces may be deemed more, or less appropriate for use as a note-taking surface. For example, a surface might be deemed less appropriate if written markings on the surface could lead to confusion with other markings or features of the device. An example of a more appropriate or useful and less confusing surface might be a top of housing 104, which has a relatively large area and is located in a place where confusion with other pump features might be less likely to occur.

In some embodiments or uses, a possibly less advantageous aspect of providing note- taking surfaces on infusion pumps could be the possibility of degrading the pump' s visual appeal over time. Some "erasable" surfaces can tend to stain or otherwise not completely erase with multiple uses, leading to a dingy, unclean, old, or otherwise unappealing appearance. The detachable nature of receptacle flap 1 14 can provide a solution to this problem, enabling easy replacement of a degraded flap with a new or at least different or otherwise "clean" flap. In addition, while other components of the pump that might include note-taking surfaces, such as parts of housing 104, could be replaced (although perhaps with less ease than receptacle flap 1 14), other solutions for providing clean note-taking surfaces are contemplated.

An embodiment that provides a clean note-taking surface includes attaching a stack of disposable peel-off note-taking surfaces on any suitable surface of an infusion pump, such as on the housing of the pump. Figure 5 is a schematic illustration of a stack 500 of peel -off note-taking surfaces (illustrated with vertical exaggeration). The stack can be formed to generally conform to the surface of the housing, and can be custom-shaped to specifically fit a particular location on the housing, or could be provided in a generic shape (e.g., rectangle) that might be placeable in multiple different locations and on different medical devices. A possible advantage of providing a custom shape is that it could be designed to cover essentially all of a portion of a surface, reducing the possibility that a marking device might accidentally mark a part of the housing not covered by the stack (as compared to a generic stack with only partial surface coverage). Stack 500 can include a plurality of substantially identical removable overlying layers 502 (the top-most layer is schematically shown as being partially peeled off). Each of the layers can be structured for marking with a compatible marking device on a top surface 504, and can include a suitable adhesive on a bottom surface 506, although adhesives may not be necessary in all embodiments. Each of the layers can be removably adhered to an immediately underlying layer. The bottom-most layer 508 of the stack can be the same as the overlying layers, or can be different, for example, with a different adhesive suited for more securely anchoring the entire stack 500 to the housing surface. In some embodiments, the overlying layers can be structured on their top surfaces for erasably marking with a compatible erasable marking device, although this is not necessary in all embodiments. The layers can be transparent or not transparent, of any suitable color. When desired, the (currently) top-most layer of the stack can be removed to expose a fresh underlying layer. In addition to being visually clean, the fresh underlying layer can also be hygienically clean.

In a related embodiment, rather than a stack of multiple layers, a single replaceable note-taking layer (not illustrated) can be removably attached to any suitable surface of an infusion pump, such as on the housing of the pump. In some embodiments, a single replaceable note-taking layer could be identical to a single one of the substantially identical removable overlying layers 502 of stack 500. The single replaceable note-taking layer can be structured for erasably marking with a compatible erasable marking device. It could be replaced on an as-needed basis, with the need for replacement determined in any suitable way. Replacement replaceable note-taking layers could be provided in a stack, from a roll, or in any suitable delivery/storage format. Replacement layers could be provided from a dispenser attached to a pump, an IV pole, a pump-rack, or in an equipment cabinet, or provided in any other suitable location.

The present disclosure contemplates systems and structures for providing illuminated note-taking surfaces readable in low-light conditions. In addition to the illuminated flap embodiment described elsewhere herein, the present disclosure contemplates that any suitable note-taking surface could be illuminated by a backlight configured to illuminate the surface. Any suitable backlight technology could be used, such as LEDs or other light sources with a lightguide (and any other suitable light management films), electro-luminescent devices, "glow-in-the-dark" phosphorescent materials (incorporating phosphors such as zinc sulfide and/or strontium aluminate), and so on. The backlight can underlie a surface structured to be (erasably) marked with a compatible (erasable) marking device, and/or a surface structured to receive a replaceable layer or a stack of layers, the layer(s) structured for (erasably) marking with a compatible (erasable) marking device.

In some embodiments, a backlit note-taking surface can overlay or be adjacent to a dynamic display of an infusion pump. Referring to Figure 1, a backlit area 150 can be provided on the front of pump 100 in conjunction with a dynamic display 152. (The positions, sizes, and relationship between backlit area 150 and dynamic display area 152 are shown merely by way of example and should not be considered limiting. Many arrangements are possible.) Dynamic display 152 can use any suitable display technology, such as liquid crystal display (LCD) or Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED). In some embodiments, dynamic display 152 can be illuminated by the same backlight that illuminates a nondynamic display portion of backlit area 150, but this is not necessary, and in some embodiments dynamic display 152 can be illuminated by a separate backlight, or by an illumination mechanism that is not a backlight (for example, an OLED display provides its own illumination and is not backlit, although the OLED display could backlight a surface overlying the display).

All or part of backlit area 150 can be provided as a note-taking surface that is structured for erasably marking with a compatible marking device, or for receiving a replaceable layer or a stack of layers that can be (erasably) marked. All or part of the surface overlying dynamic display 152 can be structured as a note-taking surface (with note markings potentially overlying dynamically-displayed information), and/or all or part of the surface overlying dynamic display 152 can be structured not as a note-taking surface (for example, potentially including coatings or other materials engineered not to readily accept markings). In some embodiments, a replaceable note-taking layer or stack 500 of layers can overlie all of backlit area 150, including dynamic display 150, with different properties on different areas of the layer(s) that determine areas that are markable and not markable. In some cases, none of dynamic display 152 includes a note-taking surface, but backlit area 150 includes a note- taking surface that adjoins the dynamic display.

It is envisioned that any suitable note-taking surface of the present disclosure, regardless of location, could include permanent markings that could serve, for example, as prompts for written notes (e.g., "Dose ", "Rate ", and so on). In some cases, a dynamic display could dynamically provide similar prompts or guides for written notes.

This disclosure is to be understood to be not limited to the particular examples described herein, but rather should be understood to cover all aspects of the disclosure and equivalents thereof. Various modifications, processes, and components, as well as numerous structures to which the disclosure can be applicable, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art upon review of the instant specification.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. An infusion pump, comprising:

a receptacle configured to receive a syringe; and

a receptacle flap pivotably attached to the pump, the receptacle flap pivotable between an open mode and a closed mode, wherein in the closed mode, the receptacle flap is in a position that substantially inhibits access to the receptacle and to the syringe received by the receptacle, and in the open mode, the receptacle flap is in a position that enables access to the receptacle and to the syringe received by the receptacle,

wherein the receptacle flap includes a surface structured for erasably marking with a compatible marking device.

2. The pump of claim 1, further comprising a flap latch configured to selectively constrain the receptacle flap to the closed mode.

3. The pump of claim 1, further comprising a flap release mechanism configured to enable the receptacle flap to be selectively attached to and separably released from the pump, the flap release mechanism including an attachment portion of the receptacle flap and a flap attachment point fixed relative to the pump, the attachment portion and the flap attachment point being configured to reversibly mate.

4. The pump of claim 3, wherein the flap release mechanism is configured to be actuatable to selectively release the receptacle flap relative to the pump only when the receptacle flap is in the open mode, and is not actuatable to release the receptacle flap when the receptacle flap is in the closed mode.

5. The pump of claim 3, wherein the flap release mechanism is configured to be actuatable to selectively release the receptacle flap relative to the pump without use of any tool.

6. The pump of claim 3, wherein the attachment portion of the receptacle flap is structured with at least one subcomponent that moves between a first position and a second position, wherein when the receptacle flap is attached and secured to the pump, the at least one subcomponent is deployed in the first position, and when the receptacle flap is configured to be attachable and detachable relative to the pump, the at least one subcomponent is deployed in the second position.

7. The pump of claim 3, wherein the flap attachment point is structured with at least one subcomponent that moves between a first position and a second position, wherein when the receptacle flap is attached and secured to the pump, the at least one subcomponent is deployed in the first position, and when the pump is configured for the flap to be attachable and detachable relative to the pump, the at least one subcomponent is deployed in the second position.

8. The pump of claim 2, further comprising a clamp assembly configured to releasably secure the syringe in the receptacle, wherein the clamp assembly is structured also to function as the flap latch.

9. A selectively removable flap configured to selectively attach to an infusion pump proximal a syringe receptacle of the infusion pump, comprising:

a cover portion dimensioned to inhibit access to the syringe receptacle and to a syringe received by the receptacle when the selectively removable flap is positioned in a closed mode, the cover portion including a surface structured for erasably marking with a compatible marking device; and

an attachment portion fixed relative to the cover portion and structured to mate with a flap attachment point of the infusion pump,

wherein the attachment portion and the flap attachment point together provide a flap release mechanism configured to enable the selectively removable flap to be selectively attached to and separably released from the infusion pump;

further wherein the flap release mechanism is configured to enable the selectively removable flap to move between the closed mode and an open mode, wherein in the open mode, the cover portion is positioned to enable access to the receptacle and to the syringe received by the receptacle.

10. The flap of claim 9, wherein the cover portion is substantially non-planar and shaped to conform in part to a shape of the syringe received by the receptacle.

11. The flap of claim 9, wherein the flap release mechanism is configured to be actuatable to selectively release the receptacle flap relative to the pump only when the receptacle flap is in the open mode, and not to be actuatable to selectively release the receptacle flap when the receptacle flap is in the closed mode.

12. The flap of claim 9, wherein the flap release mechanism is configured to be actuatable to selectively release the receptacle flap relative to the infusion pump without use of any tool.

13. An infusion pump, comprising:

a pump mechanism configured to deliver an infusate to a patient;

a housing containing at least part of the pump mechanism; and

a stack attached to and generally conforming to a surface of the housing, the stack including a bottom-most layer attached to the surface of the housing and a plurality of substantially identical removable overlying layers, each of the overlying layers being removably adhered to an immediately underlying layer, each of the overlying layers being structured for marking with a compatible marking device.

14. The pump of claim 13, wherein each of the overlying layers is structured for erasably marking with a compatible erasable marking device.

15. An infusion pump, comprising:

a pump mechanism configured to deliver an infusate to a patient;

a housing containing at least part of the pump mechanism; and

a replaceable layer removably attached to and generally conforming to a surface of the housing, the replacable layer being structured for marking with a compatible marking device.

16. The pump of claim 15, wherein the replaceable layer is structured for erasably marking with a compatible erasable marking device.

17. An infusion pump, comprising:

a pump mechanism configured to deliver an infusate to a patient;

a note-taking surface structured for at least one of:

erasably marking with a compatible marking device; and/or

receiving a replaceable layer, the replacable layer being structured for marking with a compatible marking device; and

a backlight configured to illuminate the note-taking surface, thereby rendering markings on the note-taking surface visible in darkened surroundings.

18. The pump of claim 17, wherein the note-taking surface overlays, at least in part, at least part of a dynamic display of the pump.

19. The pump of claim 17, wherein the note-taking surface adjoins a dynamic display of the pump.

20. The pump of claim 17, wherein the backlight also illuminates a dynamic display of the pump.

21. The pump of claim 17, further comprising the replaceable layer removably attached to the note-taking surface.