1. Topic 5 – Sensors and Monitoring Systems 1)TechMed scenario covers Sensors and their uses in hospitals In the scenario: “A patient-monitoring system is installed on each hospital bed. This system has a number of sensors which can take medical readings that are updated automatically to the patient’s medical records.” Key Terms: Sensors Are used to detect physical quantities such as light level, pressure, temperature and movement. Biosensors Are used to detect the presence of various chemicals in a substance Data Logging Is where an ICT system collects and stores data at predetermined intervals.

2. Pressure sensors Used for blood pressure monitoring systems. Kidney dialysis machines and respiratory monitoring. Pressure sensors can also be used to detect that a patient is present in their hospital bed. Biosensors Used for testing blood sugar, cholesterol and pregnancy testing. Temperature sensors Used in digital thermometers, patient temperature monitoring and the control of the hospital heating system

3. Image Sensors Used in radiography and for external observation Accelerometers Used in heart pacemakers and other integrated health monitoring equipment Flow sensors Used as part of anaesthesia delivery machines, gas mixing and respiration monitoring systems

4. Implanted Sensors Are now used in many cases where long-term monitoring is necessary; typical uses include heart pacemaker control and measuring the growth of tumours. Wireless technology has been introduced into the design of many implanted sensors to reduce their size and increase reliability.

5. Data logging. Records data from sensors at regular intervals. Contain: A microprocessor Internal sensors or sensor inputs Data Storage Advantages: Readings taken automatically At correct time intervals Human error removed Taken quickly and accurately

6. Patient – Monitoring Systems Fitted to each hospital bed Observes vital signs of patient – pulse rate, o2 levels in blood Carried out automatically on regular basis Early warnings for emergencies linked to staff monitoring station or Doctor