Feature: Connectors
“Smart Healthcare” refers to technologies that aim to enable seamless monitoring of vital signs in patients with chronic heart failure, diabetes, or cancer. Photo: Piyapan/AdobeStock
Medical Device Technology: Connectors in Patient Monitoring
David Phillips
By David Phillips, managing director, binder UK
T
he Internet of Tings is influencing one of the most significant future developments in healthcare: the term ‘smart healthcare’ encompasses technologies
that facilitate uninterrupted monitoring of vital signs in patients with chronic conditions such as heart failure, diabetes, or cancer. Precise electrical connection technology ensures the reliable transmission of health data between different devices and to medical staff. By the year 2050, the number of individuals
aged 60 or above is projected to reach two billion globally, representing a twofold increase from the current figure. Te number of individuals aged 80 and above is projected to reach 430 million, representing a threefold increase from the current figure. Furthermore, the prevalence of chronic illnesses in Western societies is increasing,
38 October 2024
www.electronicsworld.co.uk
resulting in a corresponding rise in the demand for a diverse array of medical devices and services. Against this backdrop, remote monitoring of parameters such as blood sugar levels and blood pressure will become an important measure to support doctors and healthcare services in the care of their patients. Te objective of patient monitoring is to identify instances where pre-established thresholds for vital parameters have been exceeded or not met, and to alert healthcare providers if intervention is necessary. Te data facilitates the identification of patterns and early indications of deterioration in health status by medical personnel. Furthermore, there is an emerging trend towards the remote monitoring of patients in their home environment, beyond the clinical context.
Components and Critical Requirements Te essential components of patient monitors include sensors that are capable of capturing a range of physiological parameters, including body temperature, blood pressure and oxygen saturation. It is necessary to have interfaces that are capable of transmitting data from sensors for subsequent analysis on other devices or at a monitoring station. It is essential that medical care devices are precise and reliable in terms of functionality. In addition, ease of use and mobility are crucial factors. Medical devices should feature intuitive controls and be straightforward to set up, so that even individuals without technical knowledge or medical training can operate them. Te incorporation of ergonomic handles and clear markings is crucial for the
Patient monitoring in a clinical environment requires high-performance and reliable device connectivity. These devices should feature intuitive controls and be easy to set up. Photo: Kiryl Lis/Adobe Stock
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