Point of Care Neonatal Monitor using Non-Contact Sensors

Abstract Koronis Biomedical Technologies CorporationKBTproposes to develop a non contactbiologically safe radar system capable of monitoring the respiration rate and heart rate of neonatesPremature infants are a particularly vulnerable population within pediatrics that demonstrate an impending clinical change through subtle alterations in vital signs and therefore for whom constant monitoring is particularly importantStandard of care vital monitoring with wired monitoring electrodes presents a risk factor for these fragile patientsPremature skin is very susceptible to epidermal strippingextravasationand wound breakdownIn additionelectrodes do not always stick well to premature skin and are prone to falling offElectrodes may be required for constant monitoring for weeks to monthsleaving the skin open to chronic irritation and injuryInfants also move and are moved by providers on a regular basis that creates another challenge in keeping electrodes in placeWe propose to create a low cost radar based completely noninvasive non contact vital sign monitoring system optimized for neonates and NICU environmentsand patients with at risk skinsuch as severe burn and epidermolysis patientsThe system will allow providers to get consistent vital sign data from at risk patients in burn unitshospital floorsand ICUs without compromising skin integrity or causing painWe expect access to more vital signs data that is highly accurate to lead to improved care and ultimately outcomes of these at risk patients Narrative Aboutof the infants born annually in the U Swho are premature and consideredvery low birth weightThese infants are typically in the hospital for weeks to months with need for constant monitoring the majority of this timePremature infants are a particularly vulnerable population within pediatrics that demonstrate an impending clinical change through subtle alterations in vital signs and therefore for whom constant monitoring is particularly importantStandard of care vital monitoring with wired monitoring electrodes presents a risk factor for these fragile patientsPremature infant skin is immature and fragile compared to a healthy full term infantPremature skin is very susceptible to epidermal strippingextravasationand wound breakdownIn additionelectrodes do not always stick well to premature skin and are prone to falling offElectrodes may be required for constant monitoring for weeks to monthsleaving the skin open to chronic irritation and injuryInfants also move and are moved by providers on a regular basis that creates another challenge in keeping electrodes in place