Proposal to Develop and Test a Vital Signs Monitoring System Based on Advanced Sensors Electronics
Abstract
Through the use of enhanced sensitivity sensors and carefully matched electronics, Active Signal Technologies, under contract with MRMC, developed and tested a portable Vital Signs Monitor (VSM). The purpose of the VSM is to monitor the condition of casualties at the point of injury and display the two principal vital signs of pulse rate and breathing rate and an additional temperature display that provides an indication of surface temperature. The sensors are contained in a band that is attached to the neck--a site selected in order to avoid the necessity of tearing the casualty's clothing for sensor placement. One sensor rests on the carotid and the other over the larynx. Once in place, the sensor's signals are conditioned and digitized by suitable electronics to count pulse rate, breathing rate, and temperature. The system was tested successfully on patients at the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center and on pilots at the National Guard Armory at the Aberdeen Proving Grounds. It performed well with an occasional low reading from persons with very faint breathing signals. The next system literation can include isolating all signals from any ambient noise or motion.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA374074
Entities
People
- John Sewell