ENVIRONMENT SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM FOR PATIENT MONITORING DEVICE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The subject matter disclosed herein relates to patient monitoring. More specifically, it
relates to monitoring a patient in a dynamic environment.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Patients in a hospital may be shifted or moved from one place to another based on
need. Patient shifting can be within the hospital premises or to another location as well. During transport, patients may experience external stress that can impact their physiological condition. External stress may be due to various environmental factors, such as temperature and humidity variation, noise, vibration, pressure changes and so on. Another cause of external stress is interferences, for instance, signal interference, noise interference, and electrical interference and so on. The external stress may not be continuous and depends on the environment around the patient.
[0003] Variations in environmental factors are often associated with a change in patient’s
physiological condition. Emergency situations involving patient transport (from one hospital to another, or from one location in the hospital to another) may increase the number or likelihood of environmental factors that can affect the patient condition. For example, a variation in temperature and/or humidity level can change patient’s blood pressure level. Even though current devices and methods determine changes in the blood pressure level, the cause of the changes remains unidentified or unevaluated. High blood pressure level may also contribute to high cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. Additionally, vibrations due to environmental factors can affect physiological parameters of a person. Irrespective of a person being healthy, old or unhealthy, any external vibrations due to environmental factors if experienced on the person’s body can increase the stress on the person. So any vibration that affects the whole body may cause a variation in the physiological parameter values such as, pulse rate, respiration rate, heart rate and heart rate variability (HRV) values. The variation in the physiological parameters may be more when the body starts experiencing sudden vibrations from a no vibration state.

[0004] Usually patients may be monitored using a patient monitoring device or a variety of
other healthcare devices. These devices are connected to a switch board where other devices may be plugged-in. There is an increased chance of occurrence of electrical interference between the devices which results in incorrect readings being displayed on the patient monitoring device or other healthcare devices.
[0005] There is a need for an improved system that can be used for monitoring environmental
factors that can affect patient’s physiological condition and provide early warning to a caregiver.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The object of the invention is to provide an environmental surveillance system and
method for monitoring environmental factors that can affect patient’s physiological condition and provide early warning to a care giver, which overcomes one or more drawbacks of the prior art. This is achieved by the system having the capability of as defined in the independent claim.
[0007] One advantage with the disclosed environmental surveillance system is that the system
can monitor environmental factors that affect a physiological parameter of the patient and provide recommendation or alerts to a care giver. The environmental surveillance system includes a sensor configured to monitor and environmental parameter and a patient monitor including a processor configured to receive environmental parameter data from the sensor, receive patient physiological parameter data from a physiological sensor, determine a variation in a patient physiological parameter affected by the environmental parameter, and output a notification signal indicating the patient physiological parameter affected by the environmental parameter.

[0008] In an embodiment a patient monitoring device is disclosed. The patient monitoring
device includes a processor configured to receive data relating to an environmental parameter from an environmental sensor, and determine a variation in a patient physiological parameter due to the environmental parameter. A display for presenting to a user a recommended change in environmental parameter affecting the patient physiological parameter.
[0009] In an embodiment a method of managing a patient environment is disclosed. The
method involves monitoring an environmental parameter with a sensor positioned at a location in the patient environment; communicating the environmental parameter to a patient monitoring device; determining a variation in a patient physiological parameter due to the environmental parameter; and presenting a notification recommending a change to the environmental parameter affecting the patient physiological parameter on a display.
[0010] A more complete understanding of the present invention, as well as further features
and advantages thereof, will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description and drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an environment where a patient may be monitored
in case of issues in health condition of the patient according to an embodiment;
[0012] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary environment where an environment surveillance
system operates according to an embodiment;
[0013] FIG. 3 illustrates a patient monitor according to an embodiment;
[0014] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary user interface presenting the alerts, physiological
parameters and environmental parameters;
[0015] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary user interface presenting recommendations to the
caregiver according to an embodiment;

[0016] FIG. 6 illustrates the patient monitor communicating with mobile devices according to
an embodiment;
[0017] FIG. 7 illustrates a method for managing an environment around a patient according to
an embodiment;
[0018] FIG. 8 illustrates a method for managing an environment around a patient according to
another embodiment; and
[0019] FIG. 9 illustrates a method for managing an environment around a patient according to
yet another embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0020] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings
that form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments that may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that logical, mechanical and other changes may be made without departing from the scope of the embodiments. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken as limiting the scope of the invention.
[0021] As discussed in detail below, embodiments of an environmental surveillance system
that can monitor environmental factors that affect a physiological parameter of the patient and provide recommendation or alerts to a caregiver is disclosed. The environmental surveillance system includes a sensor configured to monitor and environmental parameter and a patient monitor including a processor configured to receive environmental parameter data from the sensor, receive patient physiological parameter data from a physiological sensor, determine a variation in a patient physiological parameter affected by the environmental parameter, and output a notification signal indicating the patient physiological parameter affected by the environmental parameter.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an environment 100 where a patient’s 102
physiological condition may be monitored. The environment 100 may be a hospital environment, a clinic, an ambulance and so on. A patient monitoring device 104 is shown operatively connected to the patient 102, in accordance with an embodiment. The patient monitoring device 104 may include any device or sensor adapted to monitor or evaluate a patient such as, for example, an electrocardiogram (ECG), an electroencephalogram (EEG) system, a blood pressure monitor, a pulse oximeter, a thermometer, a respiration monitor, etc. According to one embodiment, the patient monitoring device 104 includes any device adapted to monitor a patient's vital signs. For purposes of this disclosure, the term “vital signs” is defined to include any combination of temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation and respiratory rate. The patient monitoring device 104 is particularly well adapted for implementation with children however it may also be implemented with adult patients.
[0023] The patient monitoring device 104 is adapted to collect medical data from the
patient 102 in a known manner. If, for example, the patient monitoring device 104 includes a non-invasive blood pressure (NIBP) monitor, the collected medical data would comprise blood pressure data that is obtainable using known auscultatory or oscillometric methods. According to one embodiment, the patient monitoring device 104 includes a patient interface 106, a controller 108, a speaker 110, and a display 112. The patient interface 106 couples the patient 102 with the controller 108. Although the patient interface 106 is depicted in FIG. 1 as being a separate component connected to the patient monitoring device 104, it should be appreciated that the patient interface 106 may alternatively be included as an integral component of the patient monitoring device 104 within the scope of this disclosure.
[0024] The patient interface 106 includes one or more sensors 114 that are in communication
with the patient 102. The sensors 114 are configured to detect patient physiological parameters, and to transmit a signal reflective of the detected patient parameters. The sensors 114 may be capable of monitoring and determining vital physiological parameters of the patient 102. The physiological parameters may include any combination of temperature, heart rate, blood pressure (for example, auscultatory or oscillometric non-invasive blood pressure), oxygen saturation and

respiratory rate. The patient interface 106 may comprise a variety of different devices depending at least in part on the specific type of the patient monitoring device 104 implemented. As one example, if the patient monitoring device 104 includes a NIBP monitor, the patient interface 106 may include a pressure transducer (not shown) operatively connected to an inflatable blood pressure cuff (not shown). According to another example, if the patient monitoring device 104 includes an ECG monitor, the patient interface 106 may include a plurality of electrodes (not shown) operatively connected to a corresponding plurality of lead wires (not shown). Additionally, the patient interface 106 may be configured with varying devices depending on the patient care area in which the patient monitoring device 104 is located, and/or the needs of the particular patient.
[0025] According to one embodiment, the controller 108 includes a central processing unit
(CPU). The controller 108 is adapted to receive input from the patient interface 106 and to process the input in a known manner. The controller 108 may, for example, be adapted to convert analog signals from the sensors 114 into digital data, to evaluate the converted digital data, and to present the converted digital data in a convenient form. The controller 108 is also configured to selectively operate the speaker 110 and/or the display 112 in a manner adapted to present alarms. The alarms are presented to indicate any variation in the physiological parameters. Sometimes the physiological parameters may vary beyond their respective threshold levels and accordingly alarms may need to be generated to alert a clinician or a caregiver or a nurse. The speaker 110 may generate some audible sound associated with the alarm and the display 112 may show some visual indicators that are associated with the alarm. Although, the speaker 110 and the display 112 are shown as being an internal component of the patient monitoring device 104 in accordance to one embodiment, it should be appreciated that the speaker 110 and/or the display 112 may alternatively be externally disposed relative to the patient monitoring device 104.
[0026] The patient monitoring device 104 may optionally include an internet
connection 116 and an input port 118. The input port 118 may include a wireless connection, and may be implemented to transfer data or content (e.g. patient data) from an external device (not shown) including but not limited to a CD player, DVD player, other media player or other storage device. Accordingly, the internet connection 116 and the input port 118 increase the

likelihood that the patient monitoring device 104 will have access to any required patient data. Thus, the patient monitoring device 104 may utilize the internet connection 116 for receiving the patient data or any required data from any external database or any other sources. However, it may be envisioned that the patient data may be received by the patient monitoring device 104 through any other known methodologies.
[0027] The patient 102 may be subject to external stresses when present in the environment
100. The external stresses may include at least one, but likely a combination of noise, vibration, humidity, gravitational force, environmental temperature, pressure and so on. The external stresses are defined as external stress parameters that may need to be measured because they can cause changes in patient physiological parameters. For example, there can be a change in temperature and humidity content in the environment 100, which can result in a change in heart rate of the patient. If the patient 102 has an abnormal heart condition, the external stresses affecting the condition of the heart need to be monitored. In another scenario, an ambulance may have a patient 102 on board to be transferred to a hospital. The patient 102 may be subjected to unnecessary disturbances (gravitational and other forces) due to poor road conditions. The disturbances can certainly cause variation in vital physiological parameters of the patient, and, in case the patient’s condition is critical, it is concerning.
[0028] The patient monitoring device 104 may be powered by a power supply board 120.
The patient monitoring device 104 is connected to a power input 122 that supplies power. The power supply board 120 also have another power input 124 to which a medical device 126 may be powered. The power inputs 122 and 124 may be power sockets. There may be interference 128 i.e., an electrical or electromagnetic interference, between the power signals from the power inputs 122 and 124. The interference 128 can cause disturbance and variation in the digital data at the sensors 114. The variation in the digital data results in presenting distorted measured physiological parameter values on the display 112. Consequently, the caregiver may not be able to accurately access the medical condition of the patient 102.

[0029] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary environment 200 where an environment surveillance
system 202 operates according to an embodiment. The environment 200 is exemplarily shown as a room with walls 204. The room may be in a hospital. However, it may be appreciated that the environment 200 can be any other room in a different facility, such as a clinic, or a hallway or an ambulance and so on. The environment surveillance system 202 also includes sensors that can monitor environmental parameters, which affects a physiological condition of the patient. The environmental parameters may broadly include, for example, external stress parameters and interference parameters. As illustrated, in FIG. 2, a sensor 206 and a sensor 208 monitor external stress parameters. The external stress parameters may include, but not limited to, noise, vibration, humidity, gravitational force, environmental temperature and atmospheric pressure. In an embodiment, the sensor 206 may be capable of monitoring temperature level and/or humidity level in the environment 200. Even though, the sensor 206 is illustrated as a single unit, it may be appreciated that the sensor 206 may be a combination of multiple sensors, which may be capable of monitoring humidity level, temperature level and other stress parameters. In another exemplary embodiment, the sensor 206 may be illustrated as a single unit however it may be a combination of two sensors for example, which may be capable of monitoring humidity level and temperature level. The sensor 208 may monitor vibrations on the walls 204 caused by any external factors. The vibrations experienced on the walls may be due to, for example, construction work happening near to the environment 200, some objects falling or hitting the walls 204, any natural causes of vibration, and so on. The sensor 208 measures the vibration level experienced in the walls 204. In an embodiment, the vibration level may be measured in terms of frequency values (e.g. hertz) or in terms of displacement amplitude using either relative or absolute units (e.g. microns). The sensor 208 is illustrated as a single sensor; however, it can be a combination of multiple sensors positioned at different points on the walls 204. The multiple sensors can help in detecting and measuring vibration at any points on the walls 204. Moreover, sensors can also measure degree of vibrations at different locations on the walls 204.
[0030] The sensors 206 and 208 operatively communicate with a patient monitor 210. The
patient monitor 210 may include any device adapted to monitor or evaluate a patient such as, for example, an electrocardiogram (ECG), a blood pressure monitor, a NIBP monitor, a pulse oximeter, a thermometer, a respiration monitor, etc. In an embodiment, the sensors 206 and 208 can wirelessly communicate data associated with environmental parameters to the patient

monitor 210. The wireless technology used by the sensors 206 and 208 may be, but is not limited to, bluetooth®, wi-fi®, ZigBee®, near field communication (NFC).
[0031] A physiological sensor 212 connected to the patient 102, monitors patient
physiological parameters. The patient monitor 210 receives patient physiological parameter data from the physiological sensor 212. The physiological sensor 212 may have a wired connection with the patient monitor 210. In another embodiment, the physiological sensor 212 may have wireless capability, and thus, can transmit the patient physiological parameter data to the patient monitor 210 wirelessly. The wireless technology used by the physiological sensor 212 may be, but is not limited to, bluetooth®, wi-fi®, ZigBee®, near field communication. The patient monitor 210 includes a processor 214 that is configured to process the environmental parameter data and the patient physiological parameter data, and determine a variation in any patient physiological parameter affected or caused by environmental parameter data. For example, the processor 214 determines whether a variation in the patient physiological parameter is in response to a change in any environmental parameter around the patient 102. The processor 214 is configured to output a notification signal indicating that the patient physiological parameter is affected by the environmental parameter. The notification signal may be presented by the patient monitor 210 in the form of an alert. The patient monitor 210 has a display 216 presenting a user interface 218. The display 216 may be an integral part of the patient monitor 210 as illustrated in FIG. 2, or may be a separate display unit connected to the patient monitor 210. The display may be wired or wirelessly connected to the patient monitor 210. The user interface 218 may present an alert 220 corresponding to the notification signal. The alert 220 indicates that the patient physiological parameter is affected by variation in the environmental parameter. The alert 220 helps the caregiver to interpret the condition of the patient.
[0032] The patient monitor 210 is powered through a power supply board 222. A power cord
or line 224 connects the patient monitor 210 to the power supply board 222. The power supply board 222 as illustrated includes two power inputs (i.e. power sockets) 226, 228. The patient monitor 210 is connected to the power input 226 and the medical device 126 is connected to the power input 228 using a power line 230. There may be occurrence of electrical disturbance or electromagnetic interference between electric signals received from the power inputs 226 and 228, hence in one embodiment, a sensor 232 may be integrated in the power supply board 222.

In another embodiment, the sensor 232 may be a separate unit connected to the power supply board 222 for monitoring electrical disturbance or electromagnetic interference. The sensor 232 monitors the interference in the power supply board 222 and communicates it to the patient monitor 210. The patient monitor 210 determines any variation in the patient physiological parameter due to the interference. If there is variation in the patient physiological parameter, the patient monitor 210 presents an alert 234 through the user interface 218. The alert 234 gives an indication to the caregiver that the patient’s physiological condition is not normal or there is a variation. The caregiver can take appropriate steps to bring the patient’s physiological condition to stability.
[0033] FIG. 3 illustrates the patient monitor 210 according to an embodiment. The processor
214 receives the patient physiological parameter data and the environmental parameter data. The patient physiological parameter data and the environmental parameter data may be continuously or periodically received by the patient monitor 210. In some examples, the patient physiological parameter data and the environmental parameter data may be received as patient physiological parameter values and environmental parameter values, respectively. These parameter values are analyzed by a parameter analyzer 300, to determine if there is a change in the patient physiological parameter due to variation in the environmental parameter. In an embodiment, the environmental parameter values and the physiological parameter values may be associated with a time stamp. The processor 214 determines if there is change in the patient physiological parameter at the same time or subsequent to a variation in the environmental parameter value. That is to say, according to an embodiment, a variation in the environmental parameter value may be identified at a particular time, and it may be determined that a change in the patient physiological parameter value at the same time or after a pre-determined time interval is related. In the event, there is a change in the patient physiological parameter value, it may be determined that patient physiological condition changed due to variation in the environmental parameter.
[0034] To determine if a change in environmental parameter is acceptable or not, in an
example, the parameter analyzer 300 checks whether the environmental parameter is outside an environmental parameter threshold. The environmental parameter threshold may be associated with an ideal condition. In an embodiment, an acceptable change in the environmental parameter is the one that does not adversely affect the physiological parameter of the patient 102. The

environmental parameter threshold may be a predefined threshold range or a threshold value. Thus, when the environmental parameter value is outside the threshold range, there may be an adverse or unfavorable change in the physiological parameter of the patient. Sometimes, the patient may be in a serious condition and a slightest unfavorable change can be critical. The threshold range normally includes an upper threshold value and a lower threshold value in an embodiment. So, if the environmental parameter value is greater than the upper threshold value or lower than the lower threshold value, the physiological parameter of the patient may be affected in different ways. For example, if the environmental parameter value is greater than the upper threshold value, then the physiological parameter of the patient is adverse. In yet another example, if the environmental parameter value is less than the lower threshold value, the physiological parameter of the patient is not adverse, however, it may require additional caregiver resources and should be monitored. The predefined threshold range may be defined by the user or may be predefined in other embodiments.
[0035] In another embodiment, multiple environmental parameter thresholds may be
considered for checking the variation in the environmental parameter. Each threshold may be associated with a degree of adversity of the patient’s physiological parameter. Taking an example, there may be three threshold values associated with varying degree of adversity. If the environmental parameter value crosses a first threshold value, then the physiological parameter of the patient may be less adverse (e.g. intermittent fluctuation in patient physiological parameter). In other words, it can indicate the patient can move to a critical state or highly critical state which may require attention. When the environmental parameter value crosses the second threshold value, then the physiological parameter of the patient may be medium adverse (e.g. frequent fluctuations in patient physiological parameter). At this state, there may be need for attention from the caregiver. If the environmental parameter value crosses the third threshold value, then the physiological parameter of the patient may be highly adverse (e.g. patient physiological parameter is at alarming level). Hence, the patient may require immediate attention.
[0036] In another scenario, the environmental parameter threshold may be a threshold value,
wherein when the environmental parameter value crosses the threshold value a change in physiological parameter is determined. Change in the physiological parameter indicates that the physiological condition of the patient deviated from a normal or desired level.

[0037] Taking an example, if either one of a temperature level and a humidity level (i.e., the
environmental parameters) in the environmental space around the patient deviates from their respective threshold values, there can be a variation in the physiological parameter of the patient. Sensors can be used to determine the temperature level and the humidity level continuously in the environmental space. The patient monitor checks whether there is a change in the physiological parameter of the patient when either the temperature level or the humidity level goes outside their thresholds. The correlation between the patient physiological parameter and the environmental parameter is identified when the patient physiological parameter changes, in response to at least one of the temperature level and the humidity level going above their respective thresholds, either during the same time instance, or after a pre-determined time gap.
[0038] In another example, a sudden jerk or movement of a patient lying down on a bed or
stretcher may affect the patient’s physiological condition. Such jerk or movement may occur, for example, when the patient is transported in an ambulance. An environmental parameter, such as gravitational force, experienced on the patient may be beyond the ideal limits. Consequently, there can be numerous physiological changes in the patient. Blood congestion in the patient’s head and neck may create a severe, throbbing headache and mental confusion, for example. The monitored physiological parameters reflect these changes in the patient.
[0039] Even though the correlation between the patient physiological parameter and the
environmental parameter or how the environmental parameter affects the patient physiological parameter is explained earlier according to exemplary scenarios, there may be other methodologies for determining this correlation which is within the scope of this disclosure.
[0040] The caregiver needs to know about the patient’s physiological condition, and hence an
alert indicating a change in patient’s physiological condition is presented through the patient monitor 210. The parameter analyzer 300 determines that the patient physiological parameter changed due to change in the environmental parameter, and then communicates with an alert generator 302 to configure and generate alerts. In an embodiment, the alert generator 302 configures the alerts based on user input i.e., caregiver’s inputs. The user provides inputs to define the alerts that need to be presented. In an example, the alert may be presented to indicate

that the environmental parameter value is outside of the environmental parameter threshold range. Further, another alert may be presented to indicate that the physiological parameter value is outside of the physiological parameter threshold range. It can be envisioned that either these alerts can be simultaneously presented, or the alerts may be presented one at a time, according to different exemplary embodiments. In an embodiment, the alert generator 302 receives user’s inputs for defining environmental parameter threshold range and physiological parameter threshold range.
[0041] The user may also define when the alert needs to be presented. The alert is presented
if the physiological parameter value moves outside of the physiological parameter threshold range. In an embodiment, the alert may be defined to be presented in a different manner if the physiological parameter value moves below a lower physiological parameter value or above an upper physiological parameter value. For example, an alert presented when the SPO2 level value moves lower than a lower SPO2 threshold value (e.g. 90% saturation) may be different from an alert presented when the SPO2 level value moves above an upper SPO2 threshold value (e.g. 98% saturation). The alerts in these exemplary scenarios may indicate a lower oxygen saturation level and a higher oxygen saturation level. It should be appreciated that the manner in which alerts are presented and content of these alerts may vary in different embodiments.
[0042] In another example, a temperature level in a room may go beyond a particular
temperature threshold, consequently patient’s blood pressure level may also move below a blood pressure threshold, which may be presented as an alert. Similarly, a temperature level in a room may go below a particular temperature threshold, and patient’s blood pressure level may also move above a blood pressure threshold, which may be presented as another alert. The alerts presented in both these scenarios may be different.
[0043] In an embodiment, the alert generator 302 switches off the alerts based on user inputs.
Consequently, the alerts may not be presented to the caregiver. The alerts can be switched off, whenever the caregiver wants to stop them. The alerts may be configured in different manner by the alert generator 302, and this is discussed in detail in conjunction with FIGs. 4 and 5 according to multiple embodiments.

[0044] In an embodiment, the patient monitor 210 may be also capable of providing
recommendations to the caregiver. A recommendation generator 304 generates a recommendation for rectifying the situation of the physiological parameter variation. For example, if there is a temperature level change in a room and the patient’s physiological parameter (e.g. blood pressure) varies, then a recommendation is presented to the caregiver through the display. In this scenario, the recommendation may be to adjust the physiological parameter (temperature). The temperature change may help to regain the patient’s blood pressure to normal level. In another embodiment, the recommendation may also suggest the environmental temperature that needs to be maintained. The recommendation may also convey the present temperature level in the room. To provide the recommendation, the correlation between the environmental parameter value and change in patient’s physiological parameter needs to be confirmed by the parameter analyzer 300. The parameter analyzer 300 communicates with the recommendation generator 304 to configure and present the recommendation. In an embodiment, the recommendation may be presented as a message through the user interface 218. In another embodiment the recommendation may be presented in the form of an audio message from the patient monitor 210. In yet another embodiment, the recommendation may be presented as a combination of a message and an audio. It may be appreciated that there can be various methods to present the message according to numerous exemplary embodiments, which are within scope of this disclosure.
[0045] The patient monitor 210 can have the physiological parameter values, environmental
parameter values and corresponding alerts presented in different forms according to various exemplary embodiments. FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary user interface 218 presenting the alerts, physiological parameters and environmental parameters. As illustrated, different physiological parameters (such as, physiological parameters 400 and 402) and environmental parameters (such as, environmental parameters 404 and 406) are presented in the user interface 218. Even though only two physiological parameters and two environmental parameters are presented in the user interface, it may be envisioned that there can be more than two physiological parameters and environmental parameters or less than two physiological parameters and environmental parameters presented in the user interface. The physiological parameters 400 and 402 and the

environmental parameters 404 and 406 are UI elements representing fixed parameters. For example, the physiological parameters 400 and 402 may always represent blood pressure and heart rate. Further in an embodiment, the user may be able to decide and configure the UI elements (such as add or reduce UI elements) associated with physiological parameters and environmental parameters in the user interface 218. In an embodiment, the UI elements (400, 402, 404 and 406) may present physiological parameter values and environmental parameter values. Alternatively, the UI elements may not present parameter values, but may be used to present alerts when physiological parameter value and environmental parameter value varies outside of their respective thresholds. For example, in an embodiment, the UI elements (400, 402, 404 and 406) may be color coded. The color codes may be defined based on user input. The UI element indicating an alert associated with a physiological parameter may have a color code. Similarly, another UI element indicating an alert associated with an environmental parameter may have another color code.
[0046] Considering an example, the physiological parameters 400 and 402 may represent
blood pressure level and heart rate, respectively, and the environmental parameters 404 and 406 may represent humidity level and temperature level, respectively. The physiological parameters and the environmental parameters may be configured and presented based on user input. The physiological parameters 400 and 402 present blood pressure level value and heart rate value in real-time to the user. The environmental parameters 404 and 406 may present humidity level value and heart rate value in real-time. The user (i.e. caregiver) will be aware of the
physiological parameter values and the environmental parameter values and, thus can themselves ascertain any variation in the physiological condition of the patient due to variation in environmental parameter. In another embodiment, the physiological parameters 400 and 402 may be configured to present an alert signal, if these parameter values cross their respective thresholds. For example, when any of the physiological parameter 400 or 402 (in the form of UI elements) moves outside their threshold value, then it may glow to communicate the alert signal. The UI element may glow in a particular color. The color code for a physiological parameter can be assigned by the user. In an embodiment, the physiological parameters 400 and 402 may have different color codes to indicate alert signals. The physiological parameters 400 and 402 may show corresponding parameter values and glow to present alert signals at the same time. In another scenario, the physiological parameters 400 and 402 may only glow to present alert

signals. The physiological parameter 400 or 402 moves outside their thresholds due to variation in the environmental parameters. Thus, the environmental parameters 404 and/or 406 may glow to present an alert signal to indicate that it has moved outside its corresponding threshold. In an embodiment, the environmental parameters 404 and 406 may have different color codes. The color codes may be configured by the user. In an alternate embodiment, the physiological parameters 400 and 402 may have a particular color code, when parameter values are within desired levels, and another color code, when these parameter values move outside their thresholds. It should be appreciated that other methods of alerting a parameter outside its threshold are envisioned within the scope of this disclosure. For example, the parameter may flash, or the font may become bolded.
[0047] In another embodiment, the user interface 218 may have other UI elements for
presenting the alert signals. The UI elements are an alert 408 and an alert 410. Even though there are only two UI elements i.e., the alerts 408 and 410 illustrated in FIG. 4, it may be appreciated that user interface 218 can have more or less number of similar UI elements for presenting the alert signals. Further in an embodiment, the user may be able to decide and configure the UI elements (such as add or reduce UI elements) associated with an alert signal in the user interface 218. In an embodiment, the alert 408 may present an alert signal, when a physiological parameter value moves outside of its threshold. Further, the alerts 408 and 410 may be also configured to present an alert signal indicating an environmental parameter value that moved outside of its threshold. In an example, when there are two physiological parameters e.g. the blood pressure level and the heart rate that are outside of their respective thresholds, the alerts 408 and 410 are configured to present the alerts. The alerts 408 and 410 may be assigned same color codes. Alternatively, the alerts 408 and 410 may be assigned different color codes. In another exemplary scenario, the alert 408 indicates that a physiological parameter is outside its threshold, and at the same time, the alert 410 indicates that an environmental parameter causing a variation in the physiological parameter is outside its threshold. These alerts enable the caregiver to associate the environmental parameter variation to change in the physiological parameter. The caregiver can then take appropriate steps to control the environmental parameter. Moreover, in yet another embodiment, the alerts 408 and 410 may be presented along with an audio alert signal. The audio alert signal may be in form of alarm sounds that can get the attention of the care giver. When the alerts 408 and 410 present the alert signals, the

physiological parameters 400 and 402, and the environmental parameters 404 and 406 present respective parameter values as well.
[0048] Now moving on to FIG. 5 illustrating an exemplary user interface 500 presenting
recommendations to the caregiver according to an embodiment. The exemplary user interface 500 presents the physiological parameters 400 and 402 and the environmental parameters 404 and 406. Further, the alert signals may be presented by the alerts 408 and 410 as discussed in detail in conjunction with FIG. 4. Whenever there is a change in the physiological parameter beyond a desired level due to change in the environmental value, the alerts 408 and 410 may be presented. However, it would be beneficial for the caregiver to receive a recommendation of how to bring the physiological parameter(s) of the patient back into the normal or acceptable range. Thus, a recommendation 502 may be configured to present, for example, a message that a vibration level (environmental parameter) experienced in a wall is outside its threshold which needs to be controlled so that blood pressure level (for example, auscultatory or oscillometric NIPB levels) of the patient can be brought back into a normal or acceptable range. In an embodiment, the recommendation 502 may also convey where the vibration is occurring so that the care giver can easily identify. The location of vibration can be determined by the sensor placed in the wall. The auscultatory or oscillometric NIBP level elevation or variation occurs may be due to anxiety in the patient in response to high vibration. The caregiver can be made aware of the cause of physiological condition of the patient by viewing the recommendation 502, and accordingly rectify the issue. This may result in bringing the patient’s condition back to normal sooner.
[0049] The recommendation 502 may also indicate the criticality associated with changes in
the physiological parameter of patient. This enables the care giver to understand the urgency of controlling the environmental parameter. Moreover, in an alternate embodiment, if the environmental parameter has maintained a variation outside a threshold range for a set duration which is critically affecting the patient, then the recommendation 502 may present the trend in the variation of the environmental parameter over a period of time. In case the spiked variations are between some intervals of normalcy, and still causing an alarming variation in the physiological parameter, the caregiver can take immediate action to control the varying environmental parameter.

[0050] In some care scenarios, the caregivers may be moving around and may not be always
near to the patient. Hence, if recommendations and alerts are still received when the caregivers are remote, then they can be aware of patient’s condition and attend to the patient. FIG. 6 illustrates the patient monitor 210 communicating with mobile devices 602 and 604 according to an embodiment. The patient monitor 210 monitors the patient’s condition and processor 214 processes the environmental parameter data received from multiple sensors. As discussed earlier, there may be scenarios when the patient’s condition varies in response to change in environmental parameters around the patient. When a physiological parameter varies due to change in the environmental parameter, an alert 606 may be presented in the user interface 218. The alert 606 is generated when the physiological parameter value is outside its threshold range. In another embodiment, a recommendation 608 may be also presented informing which environmental parameter is affecting the physiological parameter and that needs to be controlled. The recommendation 608 may indicate to what level the environmental parameter should be controlled considering a predefined threshold. For example, any environmental parameter value below than a predefined threshold may not affect the physiological parameter.
[0051] The alert 606 and the recommendation 608 may be transmitted to the mobile devices
602 and 604. The mobile devices 602 and 604 may be carried by caregivers in remote location. The mobile device 602 or 604 may be also held by a doctor located remotely. The alert 606 enables the caregiver or doctor to be cognizant of the emergency patient condition remotely and monitor the patient. The caregiver can attend to the patient to control the environmental parameter so that the physiological parameter also regains normalcy.
[0052] In an embodiment, the alert 606 and the recommendation 608 may be communicated
in the form of a message to the mobile devices 602 and 604. In another embodiment, there may be an application running in the mobile device 602 and 604 for viewing the patient monitor 210. This application can receive the alert 606 and the recommendation 608 and present to the user in the mobile devices 602 and 604. The alert 606 and the recommendation 608 can be presented in different forms in the mobile devices. In addition to the alert 606 and recommendation 608, trends in the variation of the environmental parameters and the physiological parameters of the

patient over a period of time can be presented in the mobile devices. In an embodiment, these trends may be part of the recommendation 608.
[0053] It may be appreciated that even though mobile devices are illustrated in FIG. 6 to
present the recommendations and alerts to the caregiver, it may be envisioned that in other exemplary embodiments, the alerts and recommendations can be presented to the caregiver through any wearable electronic devices or portable electronic devices or other electronic devices within the scope of this disclosure.
[0054] FIG. 7 illustrates a method 700 for managing an environment around a patient
according to an embodiment. At step 702, an environmental parameter is monitored with a sensor positioned at a location in the patient environment. There may be a single sensor or multiple sensors placed in the patient environment. In one embodiment, each sensor may be used to monitor different environmental parameters. In another embodiment, there may be multiple sensors in various locations to monitor a single environmental parameter. The physiological parameters of the patient may be also monitored using physiological sensors positioned on the patient’s body. The monitored environmental parameter data is communicated to a patient monitoring device or the patient monitor at step 704. Different sensors may transmit corresponding monitored environmental parameter data to the patient monitor. The patient monitor processes these environmental parameter data to determine if there is any variation in any environmental parameter. The patient monitor also monitors the physiological parameters to determine if there is a variation in any of the physiological parameters.
[0055] The correlation between the variation in environmental parameter and the variation in
physiological parameter is determined at step 706. If there is change in the physiological parameter due to the environmental parameter, then a notification recommending a change to the environmental parameter affecting the physiological parameter is presented at step 708. The notification is presented as a recommendation in a user interface of the patient monitor. In an embodiment, the recommendation can also mention to the level which the environmental parameter varies so that the patient’s physiological parameter can be acceptable. The caregiver can view this recommendation and take steps to control the environmental parameter. As a result, the physiological parameter of the patient can return to a normal or acceptable range.

[0056] FIG. 8 illustrates a method 800 for managing an environment around a patient
according to another embodiment. At step 802, environmental parameters of the patient environment and physiological parameters of the patient are monitored. Different sensors are located in various positions in the patient environment for monitoring the environmental parameters. Further, physiological parameters are monitored by sensors placed or connected to the patient’s body. Environmental parameters and the physiological parameters need to be maintained at normal levels so that patient’s condition remains stable. Thresholds for environmental parameters and the physiological parameters may be set. In one embodiment, the thresholds may be set by a user operating the patient monitor. In another embodiment, the thresholds may be predefined or preset in the patient monitor.
[0057] The thresholds may be defined in the form of a threshold range having a lower
threshold value and an upper threshold value. If the environmental parameter value moves below the lower threshold value or moves above the upper threshold value, a change in the patient’s condition may result. In another scenario, the threshold may be a single value. Here, if the environmental parameter value moves above the threshold, the patient’s condition may be affected.
[0058] A check is then performed to determine if the environmental parameter is outside its
threshold at step 804. In the event, the environmental parameter value is outside the threshold, it is checked if the physiological parameter is outside a threshold at step 806. If yes, at step 808, then an alert is generated and presented in a user interface of the patient monitor. In another embodiment, the step 806 can be performed before step 804. In other words, a check is performed to determine if the physiological parameter is outside a threshold, and if it is yes, then it is checked whether the environmental parameter is outside its threshold. In case the environmental parameter is also outside its threshold, then an alert is generated at step 808. In an embodiment, alert may be presented along with a recommendation. The recommendation

mentions the steps to be taken for controlling the environmental parameter. In case the physiological parameter is not outside the threshold, then the change in environmental parameter has not affected the physiological parameter, and hence the method returns to the monitoring step.
[0059] In the case where there is no variation in the environmental parameter checked at step
804, but it is determined the physiological parameter is outside a threshold at step 810, the patient needs to be monitored at step 812. The changes in physiological parameter in this scenario are unrelated to the environmental parameter and hence there may be other factors which are contributing to the change in the patient’s physiological parameter. In the case where there is no variation in the environmental parameter checked at step 804, but it is determined the physiological parameter is not outside a threshold at step 810, then method returns to monitoring step.
[0060] FIG. 9 illustrates a method 900 for managing an environment around a patient
according to yet another embodiment. At step 902, environmental parameters of the patient environment and physiological parameters of the patient are monitored. Different sensors are located in various positions in the patient environment for monitoring the environmental parameters. Further, physiological parameters are monitored by sensors placed or connected to the patient’s body. Environmental parameters and the physiological parameters need to be maintained at normal levels so that patient’s condition remains stable. Thresholds for environmental parameters and the physiological parameters may be set. In one embodiment, the thresholds may be set by a user operating the patient monitor. In another embodiment, the thresholds may be predefined or preset in the patient monitor.
[0061] A check is performed to determine if there is a change in physiological parameter of
the patient at step 904. In the event, there is a variation in the physiological parameter, it is checked if the physiological parameter is outside a threshold at step 906. If yes, at 908, then it is checked if the environmental parameter is outside a threshold. In case it is yes, then an alert is generated at step 910 and presented in the user interface of the patient monitor. The patient is monitored at step 912. In case the environmental parameter is not outside the threshold at step

908, then patient is monitored are step 914 due to variation in physiological parameter outside its threshold.
[0062] Whereas in the event, there is no variation in the physiological parameter outside its
threshold, then method returns to monitoring step. Further in case there is no variation in physiological parameter at step 904, the method returns to monitoring step.
[0063] From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that the above disclosed is an environmental
surveillance system that can monitor environmental factors that affect a physiological parameter of the patient and provides recommendations or alerts to a caregiver. The system enables correlating the environmental changes that can result in any physiological variation in the patient to the physiological parameters affected. The caregiver can modify these environmental changes to ideal condition, Moreover, alerts may be presented to the remote caregivers indicating the physiological condition of the patient. Thus, the care giver can know of any adverse condition of the patient and react to such. The patient monitor also provides recommendations that suggest the action to be taken by the caregiver, for example, to control a particular environmental parameter that is affecting the physiological parameter. The recommendations and alerts enable the caregiver to take action immediately to control the external environmental stresses.
[0064] The various embodiments and/or components, for example, the modules, or
components and controllers therein, also may be implemented as part of one or more computers or processors. The computer or processor may include a computing device, an input device, a display unit and an interface, for example, for accessing the Internet. The computer or processor may include a microprocessor. The microprocessor may be connected to a communication bus. The computer or processor may also include a memory. The memory may include Random Access Memory (RAM) and Read Only Memory (ROM). The computer or processor further may include a storage device, which may be a hard disk drive or a removable storage drive such as a floppy disk drive, optical disk drive, and the like. The storage device may also be other similar means for loading computer programs or other instructions into the computer or processor.

[0065] As used herein, the term “computer” or “module” may include any processor-based
or microprocessor-based system including systems using microcontrollers, reduced instruction set computers (RISC), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), logic circuits, and any other circuit or processor capable of executing the functions described herein. The above examples are exemplary only, and are thus not intended to limit in any way the definition and/or meaning of the term “computer”.
[0066] The computer or processor executes a set of instructions that are stored in one or
more storage elements, in order to process input data. The storage elements may also store data or other information as desired or needed. The storage element may be in the form of an information source or a physical memory element within a processing machine.
[0067] The methods described in conjunction with figures can be performed using a processor
or any other processing device. The method steps can be implemented using coded instructions (e.g., computer readable instructions) stored on a tangible computer readable medium. The tangible computer readable medium may be for example a flash memory, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), any other computer readable storage medium and any storage media. Although the method of projecting images onto one or more walls and a ceiling using in-built image projecting units in a medical imaging apparatus is explained with reference to the flow chart of figures, other methods of implementing the method can be employed. For example, the order of execution of each method steps may be changed, and/or some of the method steps described may be changed, eliminated, divide or combined. Further the method steps may be sequentially or simultaneously executed for managing an environment around a patient using an environment surveillance system.
[0068] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best
mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any computing system or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims,

or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

We Claim:
1. An environmental surveillance system comprising:
a sensor configured to monitor an environmental parameter; and a patient monitor comprising a processor configured to:
receive environmental parameter data from the sensor;
receive patient physiological parameter data from a physiological sensor;
determine a variation in a patient physiological parameter affected by the environmental parameter; and
output a notification signal indicating the patient physiological parameter affected by the environmental parameter.
2. The environmental surveillance system of claim 1, wherein the environmental parameter is one of an external stress parameter and an interference parameter, wherein the external stress parameter is at least one of noise, vibration, humidity, gravitational force, environmental temperature and environmental pressure, and the interference parameter is at least one of electrical disturbance, signal disturbance, and signal interference.
3. The environmental surveillance system of claim 1, wherein the sensor is a plurality of sensors positioned in an environmental space around a patient.
4. The environmental surveillance system of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to recommend an action to change the environmental parameter affecting the patient physiological parameter.

5. The environmental surveillance system of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to output an alarm signal indicating a patient physiological parameter value is outside of a predefined threshold range.
6. The environmental surveillance system of claim 1, wherein the patient monitor further comprises a user interface configured to:
display at least one physiological parameter and at least one environmental parameter; and
present an alert associated with the physiological parameter affected by the environmental parameter.
7. The environmental surveillance system of claim 6, wherein the alert is a visual alert.
8. The environmental surveillance system of claim 7, wherein the processor is further configured to:
assign the physiological parameter affected by the environmental parameter with a color code indicating the alert; and
provide a color code to the environmental parameter.
9. The environmental surveillance system of claim 1, wherein the processor is further
configured to:
analyze the environmental parameter data;
determine if the environmental parameter is outside an environmental parameter threshold; and

generate an alert indicating that an environmental parameter is outside the environmental parameter threshold.
10. A patient monitoring device comprising:
a processor configured to:
receive data relating to an environmental parameter from an environmental sensor; and
determine a variation in a patient physiological parameter due to the environmental parameter; and
a display for presenting to a user a recommended change in the environmental parameter affecting the patient physiological parameter.
11. The patient monitoring device of claim 10, wherein the environmental parameter is one of an external stress parameter and an interference parameter, wherein the external stress parameter is at least one of humidity, noise, vibration, humidity, gravitational force, environmental temperature and environmental pressure, and the interference parameter is at least one of electrical disturbance, signal disturbance, and signal interference
12. The patient monitoring device of claim 10, wherein the processor is further configured to output an alarm signal indicating a patient physiological parameter value outside of a predefined threshold range.

13. The patient monitoring device of claim 10, wherein the display is further configured to:
present at least one patient physiological parameter and at least one environmental parameter; and
present an alert associated with the patient physiological parameter affected by the environmental parameter.
14. The patient monitoring device of claim 13, wherein the processor is further configured to assign color code for each patient physiological parameter and color code for each environmental parameter.
15. The patient monitoring device of claim 14, wherein the display is further configured to highlight the physiological parameter affected by the environmental parameter with a color code indicating the alert.
16. The patient monitoring device of claim 13, wherein the display is further configured to highlight the environmental parameter affecting the physiological parameter with a color code.
17. The patient monitoring device of claim 10, wherein the processor is further configured to:
compare the environmental parameter data with an environmental parameter threshold; and
generate an alert indicating that the environmental parameter is outside the environmental parameter threshold.

18. The patient monitoring device of claim 19, wherein the display is further configured to present an alert indicating that the environmental parameter is trending towards the environmental parameter threshold.
19. The patient monitoring device of claim 20, wherein the processor is further configured to communicate to a mobile device at least one of: information indicating the environmental parameter is outside the environmental parameter threshold, information indicating the environmental parameter is trending towards the environmental parameter threshold, and information indicating the at least one environmental parameter causing a change in the patient physiological parameter to the user.
20. A method of managing a patient environment, the method comprising:
monitoring an environmental parameter with a sensor positioned at a location in the patient environment;
communicating the environmental parameter to a patient monitoring device;
determining a variation in a patient physiological parameter due to the environmental parameter; and
presenting a notification recommending a change to the environmental parameter affecting the patient physiological parameter on a display.
21. The method of claim 20, wherein determining a variation in the patient physiological
parameter comprises:
determining a change in the environmental parameter with respect to an environmental parameter threshold;

corresponding a change in the patient physiological parameter to the change in the environmental parameter, wherein change in the environmental parameter affects a change in the patient physiological parameter.
22. The method of claim 23 further comprises presenting an alarm indicating the environmental parameter is outside the environmental parameter threshold.
23. The method of claim 23 further comprises presenting an alarm indicating the environmental parameter is trending towards the environmental parameter threshold.