A Knowledge-Based Diagnosis and Treatment Display Unit.
Abstract
A feasibility study was performed to determine whether a low-cost, high-performance diagnostic and treatment display could be developed to aid a medical specialist (Army medic, civilian paramedic) and guide a non-specialist in an emergency situation. As part of this project, knowledge-based software was developed to prescribe treatment for gunshot wounds of the abdomen and render a preliminary assessment of organ damage. The system pays particular attention to the identification and classification of hemorrhagic shock and emphasizes early detection of a rapid downturn in patient status. A design concept for a self-contained handheld unit is outlined. The unit consists of three key sensors (blood pressure, pulse, pulse oximeter) that are linked to an embedded PC-based controller. System software includes an expert system and a medical knowledge base that runs under a real-time operating system (QNX). It provides decision-making support, requests user inputs when needed, suggests a treatment regimen consistent with medic/paramedic protocols, and arrives at a preliminary diagnosis. The software design anticipates the emergence of dry fibrin sealant technology as a means of controlling external hemorrhage in the field. The unit's role is to assess the risks of using fibrin sealant versus its benefits, to continuously monitor the trauma victim for a change in condition and to propose treatments when adverse reactions to fibrin sealant are encountered.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 27, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA324698
Entities
People
- Frank T. Djuth
- John H. Elder
- Paula M. Johnston