Patent Application
20240342325
Infections contracting with a healthcare environment continue to affect patient health and health care costs. The complexities around routinely disinfecting surfaces and tools can contribute to lack of following sterility protocols. Furthermore, medical devices may be damaged by heat, gas exposure and radiation of current disinfecting processes. Exposure to ultraviolet light has been shown to kill microorganisms and thus reduce infection. However, the use of UV light exposure do disinfect surfaces and medical devices may not be incorporated into sterility protocol as much as it could be.
Disclosed here are systems, devices and methods that utilize UV light to disinfect surfaces and devices in a healthcare setting.
Disclosed herein is a medical disinfection system that, according to some embodiments, includes a handheld disinfection device. The handle held disinfection device includes a device body and a number of ultraviolet (UV) light sources coupled with the device body, where the UV light source are configured to project a UV light having away from a projection surface of the device body. The handle held disinfection device further includes a console operatively coupled with the UV light source, where the console includes a processor and a memory having stored thereon logic that, when executed by the processor, causes operations of the handheld disinfection device including (i) activating the UV light source to project the UV light, and (ii) deactivating the UV light source. In some embodiments, the UV light includes a wavelength within the range of 207 nm to 222 nm.
In some embodiments, the UV light is configured to disinfect a skin surface of a patient prior to breaching a dermal layer, and in some embodiments, breaching the dermal layer includes accessing a vasculature.
In some embodiments, the operations include activating the UV light source in response to pressing a button disposed on the device body.
In some embodiments, the handheld disinfection device further includes a proximity sensor configured to determine a distance between the projection surface and the skin surface, and the operations further include preventing activation the UV light source unless the projection surface is positioned within a predefined distance from the skin surface.
In some embodiments, the operations further include preventing activation the UV light source unless the projection surface is positioned within a predefined distance from the skin surface.
In some embodiments, the operations further include deactivating the UV light source after a predefined duration of UV light activation.
In some embodiments, the handheld disinfection device is combined with at least one of an ultrasound probe, a sterile remote controller, or an adherable arm band.
In some embodiments, the handheld disinfection device includes a UV shield having a cylindrical wall extending around and away from the projection surface of the device body, where the UV shield is configured to limit UV exposure to a disinfection area of the skin surface proximate an open end of the UV shield. In some embodiments, a material of the shield includes one or more of cerium oxide, titanium oxide, carbon black, plastic acrylics, polystyrene, or polycarbonate.
In some embodiments, the UV shield is configured to contact the skin surface at the open end, and a length of the UV shield to defines a minimum distance between the skin surface and the projection surface. In some embodiments, the handheld disinfection device further includes a contact sensor coupled with the console, where the contact sensor is configured to detect a physical contact between the open end of the shield and the skin surface, and the operations further include at least one of (i) preventing activation of the UV light source in the absence of the physical contact, or (ii) activating the UV light source in response to the physical contact.
Also disclosed herein is a method of disinfecting a skin surface of a patient that, according to some embodiments, includes positioning a handheld disinfection device proximate the skin surface, where the hand held device includes a device body and a number of ultraviolet (UV) light sources coupled with the device body, and where the UV light source are configured to project a UV light away from a projection surface of the device body. The handheld disinfection device further includes a console operatively coupled with the UV light source, where the console includes a processor and a memory having stored thereon logic that, when executed by the processor, causes operations of the handheld disinfection device, and where the method further includes activating the UV light source to disinfect the skin surface.
In some embodiments of the method, activating the UV light source to disinfect the skin surface is performed in preparation of performing a vascular access procedure, and in some embodiments of the method, activating the UV light source includes pressing a button disposed on the device body.
In some embodiments of the method, the handheld disinfection device further includes a proximity sensor configured to determine a distance between the projection surface and the skin surface, and logic of the handheld disinfection device prevents activation of the UV light source unless the projection surface is positioned within a predefined distance from the skin surface. In such embodiments, the method further includes positioning the projection surface within the predefined distance to allow activation of the UV light source.
In some embodiments of the method, the logic of the handheld disinfection device automatically deactivates the UV light source after a predefined duration of UV light activation.
In some embodiments of the method, the handheld disinfection device includes a UV shield having a cylindrical wall extending around and away from the projection surface of the device body, where the UV shield is configured to limit UV exposure to a disinfection area of the skin surface proximate an open end of the UV shield. The UV shield is configured to contact the skin surface at the open end, and a length of the UV shield to defines a minimum distance between the skin surface and the projection surface.
In some embodiments of the method, the handheld disinfection device further includes a contact sensor coupled with the console, where the contact sensor is configured to detect a physical contact between the open end of the shield and the skin surface, and where activating the UV light source includes contacting the skin surface with the open end of the shield.
Also disclosed herein is a medical disinfection system that, according to some embodiments, includes a handheld disinfection device that includes (i) a device body; (ii) an ultraviolet (UV) light source coupled with the device body, where the UV light source is configured to project a UV light away from a projection surface of the device body; and (iii) a UV shield disposed proximal the UV light source, where the UV shield is configured to prevent passage of UV light therethrough and allow passage of visible light therethrough. In some embodiments, the UV light is configured to disinfect a skin surface of a patient.
In some embodiments, the UV shield is positioned between a clinician and the UV light source so that the clinician is protected from exposure to the UV light. In some embodiments, the UV shield extends laterally upward away from the device body. In some embodiments, a wall of the UV shield is formed of a refractory material such that UV light entering the wall is prevented from exiting the wall.
In some embodiments, the handheld disinfection device further includes a visible light source coupled with the device body, where the visible light source is configured to visibly illuminate the skin surface.
In some embodiments, the device further includes a console operatively coupled with the UV light source, where the console includes a processor and a memory having stored thereon logic that, when executed by the processor, causes operations, including deactivating the UV light source after a defined duration.
In some embodiments, the defined duration includes at least one of (i) any one of a number of preset time increments stored in the memory, or (ii) a time increment set by the clinician.
In some embodiments, the handheld disinfection device further includes a proximity sensor configured to determine a distance between the projection surface and the skin surface, and the operations further include preventing activation the UV light source unless the projection surface is positioned within a predefined distance from the skin surface.
Also disclosed herein is a method of disinfecting a skin surface of a patient that, according to some embodiments, includes positioning a handheld disinfection device proximate the skin surface. The hand held device includes a device body and an ultraviolet (UV) light source coupled with the device body, and the UV light source is configured to project a UV light away from a projection surface of the device body. The method further includes (i) activating the UV light source to disinfect the skin surface and (ii) viewing the skin surface through a UV light shield of the handheld disinfection device.
In some embodiments, the method further including activating a visible light source of the handheld disinfection device to visibly illuminate the skin surface.
In some embodiments of the method, the handheld disinfection device further includes a proximity sensor configured to determine a distance between the projection surface and the skin surface and a console operatively coupled with the UV light source and the proximity sensor. The console includes a processor and a memory having stored thereon logic that, when executed by the processor, causes operations of the handheld disinfection device that include preventing activation of the UV light source unless the projection surface is positioned within a predefined distance from the skin surface. In such embodiments, the method further includes positioning the projection surface within the predefined distance to allow activation of the UV light source.
In some embodiments of the method, the logic of the handheld disinfection device automatically deactivates the UV light source after a defined duration of UV light activation. In some embodiments, the defined duration includes at least one of (i) any one of a number of preset time increments stored in the memory or (ii) a time increment set by the clinician.
Also disclosed herein is a medical disinfection system that, according to some embodiments, includes an enclosure configured for placement of a person therein and a plurality of ultraviolet (UV) light sources coupled with the enclosure, where the UV light sources are configured to project UV light onto a person exterior to disinfect the person exterior.
In some embodiments, a perimeter wall of the enclosure is configured to contain the UV light within the enclosure. In some embodiments, the UV light sources are dispersed across an interior surface of the perimeter wall, the UV light sources configured to project the UV light radially inward onto the person exterior.
In some embodiments, the system further includes a frame within the enclosure, where the frame is rotatable about a centrally located vertical axis, and where the UV light sources are attached to the frame such that rotation of the frame causes the UV light sources to travel along a circular path around the person.
In some embodiments, the UV light sources are arranged to define a plane of UV light such that rotation of the frame causes projection of the UV light around an entire circumference of the person exterior.
In some embodiments, the system further includes a UV light detection system configured to detect a UV light exposure on the person exterior. In some embodiments, where the UV light detection system is configured to determine an intensity of the UV light exposure. In some embodiments, the UV light detection system includes a first UV light detector coupled with the enclosure, where the first UV light detector is configured to detect UV light emanating from the person exterior. In some embodiments, the UV light detection system includes a second UV light detector attached to the person exterior, where the second UV light detector is configured to detect the UV light received by the person exterior.
In some embodiments, the system further includes a console operatively coupled with the UV light sources and the UV light detection system, the console including a processor and a memory having stored thereon logic that, when executed by the processor, causes operations of the medical disinfection system that include one or more of (i) activating the UV light sources, (ii) recording a disinfecting event, or (iii) determining a profile of UV light exposure on the person exterior. In some embodiments, the profile of UV light exposure includes a coverage assessment of the UV light exposure.
Also disclosed herein is a method of disinfecting a person exterior that, according to some embodiments, includes (i) placing the person within an enclosure of a medical disinfection system having a plurality of ultraviolet (UV) light sources coupled with the enclosure, where the UV light sources are configured to project UV light onto a person exterior of the person to disinfect the person exterior; and (ii) activating the UV light sources.
In some embodiments of the method of disinfecting a person, the UV light sources are coupled with a rotatable frame within the enclosure, and the method further includes rotating the frame around the person.
In some embodiments of the method of disinfecting a person, the medical disinfection system further includes a UV light detection system configured to detect a UV light exposure on the person exterior, and the method further includes determining a profile of UV light exposure on the person exterior.
In some embodiments the method of disinfecting a person further includes recording a disinfecting event, where parameters of the disinfecting event include one or more of (i) a date of the disinfecting event; (ii) a time of the disinfecting event; (iii) a duration of the UV light source activation; (iv) an intensity of UV light exposure on the person exterior; or (v) the profile of UV light exposure.
Also disclosed herein is a medical disinfection system that, according to some embodiments, includes a UV light system coupled with a patient transport vehicle, where the UV light system includes a number of ultraviolet (UV) light sources configured to expose objects within the patient transport vehicle to UV light to disinfect the objects.
In some embodiments, the patient transport vehicle includes at least one of an ambulance or a helicopter. In some embodiments, windows of the patient transport vehicle are configured to inhibit transmission of the UV light therethrough.
In some embodiments the UV light sources are configured to attached to inside surfaces of the patient transport vehicle, and in some embodiments, the UV light system includes reflective surfaces configured to reflect the UV light, thereby further exposing the objects to the UV light.
In some embodiments, the UV light system is configured to activate the UV light sources during periods of non-operation of the patient transport vehicle.
In some embodiments, the UV light system is portable between at least a first compartment and a second compartment of the patient transport vehicle. In some embodiments, the first compartment includes a medical personnel compartment and UV light system is configured to disinfect objects within the medical personnel compartment. In some embodiments, the UV light system is configured to deactivate the UV light sources when an occupant is present within the medical personnel compartment. In some embodiments, the second compartment includes a patient compartment and UV light system is configured to disinfect objects within the patient compartment. In some embodiments, the UV light sources are coupled with an overhead ceiling surface of the patient compartment.
In some embodiments, the UV light system includes a remote control such that a user may remotely activate and deactivate the UV light sources, and in some embodiments, the UV light system includes a timer configured to deactivate the UV light sources after a defined activation time period.
In some embodiments, the UV light system is electrically coupled with an electrical system of the patient transport vehicle, and in some embodiments, the UV light system includes a battery power source.
Also disclosed herein is a medical disinfection system that, according to some embodiments, includes an ultraviolet (UV) light system configured to expose a high-touch surface of a patient care environment to a UV light configured to disinfect the high-touch surface, the UV light system comprising an ultraviolet (UV) light source optically coupled with the high-touch surface. In some embodiments, the high-touch includes one of a handle or a latch.
In some embodiments, the high-touch surface is an exterior surface of an object, where the object includes a material transparent to the UV light, and where the UV light source is disposed beneath the exterior surface such that the UV light propagates through the material to the exterior surface.
In some embodiments, the UV light source is configured to project the UV light onto the high-touch surface. In some embodiments, the UV light source is configured to focus the UV light onto the high-touch surface.
In some embodiments, the UV light system includes a shroud configured to at least partially encapsulate the high-touch surface, and the UV light source is coupled to an inside surface of the shroud. In some embodiments, the inside surface includes a reflective surface.
In some embodiments, the shroud is configured to transition between (i) an deployed position, wherein the shroud at least partially encapsulates the high-touch surface; and a retracted position, wherein the shroud is disposed away from the high-touch surface to allow access to the high-touch surface.
In some embodiments, the UV light source includes an array of light emitting diodes. In some embodiments, the UV light source includes an optical fiber, and in some embodiments, the optical fiber is configured to project the UV light laterally away from the optical fiber along a length of the optical fiber.
Also disclosed herein is a medical disinfection system that, according to some embodiments, includes an ultraviolet (UV) light system coupled with a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) system, where the UV light system includes a UV light source extending along a tube of the CPAP system, and where the UV light source is configured to expose an interior of the tube to a UV light configured to disinfect the interior of the tube.
In some embodiments, the UV light source is disposed within the tube.
In some embodiments, the tube includes a material that is not damaged by the UV light.
In some embodiments, the UV light system is battery operated.
In some embodiments, the UV light source is selectively (i) inserted within the tube and (ii) removed from the tube. In some embodiments, the UV light source includes at least one of a stylet, a probe or a scope.
In some embodiments, the UV light system includes a notification system configured to indicate a status of a disinfection cycle of the UV light system, and the notification system includes at least one of a visual indicator or an audible indicator.
In some embodiments, the UV light system is electrically coupled with the CPAP system. In some embodiments, the notification system is incorporated into the CPAP system.
In some embodiments, the UV light system is configured to automatically initiate the disinfection cycle.
In some embodiments, the UV light system includes a sensor configured to detect a contamination of the tube, and the UV light system is configured to initiate the disinfection cycle based on a detection of the contamination.
Also disclosed herein is a medical disinfection system that, according to some embodiments, includes an ultraviolet (UV) light system coupled with a saliva ejector, where the UV light system includes an elongate member configured for placement with a lumen of the saliva ejector. The elongate member includes a UV light source configured to expose an inside surface of the lumen to a UV light configured to disinfect the inside surface.
In some embodiments, the UV light source includes an optical fiber. In some embodiments, the optical fiber is configured to project the UV light radially outward from the optical fiber along a length of the optical fiber. In some embodiments, the optical fiber is includes a coating configured to disperser the UV light within the lumen.
In some embodiments, the UV light source is configured for insertion into the lumen from proximal end of the lumen. In some embodiments, the UV light source is configured for repeatable placement within and removal from the lumen so as to repeatedly disinfect the inside surface, and in some embodiments, the UV light source is configured for storage within a casing of the saliva ejector when the UV light source is removed from the lumen.
In some embodiments, the UV light system includes a liquid absorbing device coupled to the elongate member, where the liquid absorbing device is configured to remove a liquid from the lumen. In some embodiments, wherein the liquid absorbing device includes a disposable cloth member configured for attachment to and detachment from the elongate member.
Also disclosed herein is a medical disinfection system that, according to some embodiments, includes an enclosure configured for placement of medical devices therein and an ultraviolet (UV) light source coupled with the enclosure, where the UV light source is configured to expose the medical devices to a UV light to disinfect the medical devices. In some embodiments, the medical devices include dental instruments.
In some embodiments, the enclosure is a storage cabinet for the medical devices. In some embodiments, the enclosure is configured for use within a patient transport vehicle. In some embodiments, a perimeter wall of the enclosure is configured to contain the UV light within the enclosure.
In some embodiments, the UV light source includes a plurality of individual UV light sources arranged in an array within the enclosure so that an entire interior of the enclosure is exposed to the UV light. In some embodiments, the plurality of UV light sources are dispersed across an interior surface of the perimeter wall, the UV light sources configured to project the UV light inward onto the medical devices.
In some embodiments, the enclosure includes a number of shelves configured for placement of the medical devices thereon. In some embodiments, the shelves are configured for transmission of the UV therethrough. In some embodiments, one or more of the UV light sources are disposed between adjacent shelves.
In some embodiments, the system further include a number of cassettes configured for placement of the medical devices therein, where the cassettes are configured for placement within the enclosure, and where the cassettes are formed of a material transparent to the UV light.
In some embodiments, at least a first subset of the UV light sources include light emitting diodes, and in some embodiments, at least a second subset of the UV light sources include optical fibers, where each optical fiber is configured to project the UV light laterally away from the optical fiber.
In some embodiments, the system further includes a console operatively coupled with the UV light source. The console includes a processor and a memory having stored thereon logic that, when executed by the processor, causes operations that include activating the UV light source.
In some embodiments, the operations further include receiving input from a user and adjusting a duration of UV light activation based on the input from the user.
In some embodiments, the system further includes a medical device identification system configured to identify at least one medical device disposed within the enclosure. In some embodiments, the medical device identification system is coupled with the console and the operations further include adjusting the duration of UV light activation based on an identification of the at least one medical device.
In some embodiments, the system further includes a temperature control system configured to at least one of warm or cool the medical devices disposed within the enclosure.
Also disclosed herein is a medical disinfection system that, according to some embodiments, includes a plurality of UV light sources arranged in a two-dimensional array and a frame coupled with the plurality of UV light sources, where the frame defines a disinfection area. The plurality of UV light sources define a deflectable surface extending across the disinfection area, where the deflectable surface is configured to receive a medical device thereon such that the deflectable surface conforms to an external surface of the medical device, and where the plurality of UV light sources are configured to project a UV light away from the deflectable surface onto the external surface to disinfect the external surface.
In some embodiments, each UV light source includes an elongate member, and each UV light source is configured to project the UV light away from a free end of the elongate member. In some embodiments, each UV light source is directly coupled with the frame. In some embodiments, the frame includes a plate extending across the disinfection area, and each UV light source is individually displaceable with respect to the plate. In some embodiments, the plate includes a plurality of apertures extending through the plate, and each elongate member is slidably disposed within a corresponding aperture.
In some embodiments, each UV light source includes a light guide extending along the elongate member, and in some embodiments, each light guide includes an optical fiber.
Also disclosed herein is a medical device package that, according to some embodiments, includes a container configured for exposure to an ultraviolet (UV) light, the UV light configured to disinfect medical devices. The container includes first and second compartments, where each of the first and second compartments includes an inside wall surface configured to reflect the UV light. The container further includes a cover that includes a first cover portion extending across an open end of the first compartment and a second cover portion extending across an open end of the second compartment. A first medical device is disposed within the first compartment, where the first medical device is configured to receive a first dose of the UV light to disinfect the first medical device, and a second medical device is disposed within the second compartment, where the second medical device configured to receive a second dose of the UV light to disinfect the second medical device, and where the second dose greater than the first dose.
In some embodiments, the first cover portion is configured to allow the first dose of the UV light to enter the first compartment to disinfect the first medical device, and the second cover portion is configured to allow the second dose of the UV light to enter the second compartment to disinfect the second medical device.
In some embodiments, the cover includes multiple layers, and at least a subset of the multiple layers are configured to limit transmission of the UV light therethrough. In some embodiments, the first cover portion includes a first number of the multiple layers and the second cover portion includes a second number of the multiple layers, where the second number is less than the first number. In some embodiments, at least one of the first or second cover portions includes the cover having one or more of the multiple layers removed therefrom.
In some embodiments, at least one of the first or second compartment includes a UV light pathway extending between an interior and exterior of the at least one of the first or second compartments, and in some embodiments, the UV light pathway includes one or more of a tube, a window, a light pipe, or an optical fiber.
In some embodiments, at least one of the first or second compartments includes a probe at least partially disposed within the compartment, the probe configured to emit the UV light.
These and other features of the concepts provided herein will become more apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the accompanying drawings and following description, which describe particular embodiments of such concepts in greater detail.
Before some particular embodiments are disclosed in greater detail, it should be understood that the particular embodiments disclosed herein do not limit the scope of the concepts provided herein. It should also be understood that a particular embodiment disclosed herein can have features that can be readily separated from the particular embodiment and optionally combined with or substituted for features of any of a number of other embodiments disclosed herein.
Regarding terms used herein, it should also be understood the terms are for the purpose of describing some particular embodiments, and the terms do not limit the scope of the concepts provided herein. Ordinal numbers (e.g., first, second, third, etc.) are generally used to distinguish or identify different features or steps in a group of features or steps, and do not supply a serial or numerical limitation. For example, “first,” “second,” and “third” features or steps need not necessarily appear in that order, and the particular embodiments including such features or steps need not necessarily be limited to the three features or steps. Labels such as “left,” “right,” “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “back,” and the like are used for convenience and are not intended to imply, for example, any particular fixed location, orientation, or direction. Instead, such labels are used to reflect, for example, relative location, orientation, or directions. Singular forms of “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
The phrases “connected to,” “coupled with,” and “in communication with” refer to any form of interaction between two or more entities, including but not limited to mechanical, electrical, optical, magnetic, electromagnetic, fluid, and thermal interaction. Two components may be coupled with each other even though they are not in direct contact with each other. For example, two components may be coupled with each other through an intermediate component. Two components that are directly coupled with each other may be in direct contact with each other.
The term “logic” may be representative of hardware, firmware or software that is configured to perform one or more functions. As hardware, the term logic may refer to or include circuitry having data processing and/or storage functionality. Examples of such circuitry may include, but are not limited or restricted to a hardware processor (e.g., microprocessor, one or more processor cores, a digital signal processor, a programmable gate array, a microcontroller, an application specific integrated circuit “ASIC”, etc.), a semiconductor memory, or combinatorial elements.
Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. References to approximations are made throughout this specification, such as by use of the term “substantially.” For each such reference, it is to be understood that, in some embodiments, the value, feature, or characteristic may be specified without approximation. For example, where qualifiers such as “about” and “substantially” are used, these terms include within their scope the qualified words in the absence of their qualifiers. For example, where the term “substantially straight” is recited with respect to a feature, it is understood that in further embodiments, the feature can have a precisely straight configuration.
Any methods disclosed herein include one or more steps or actions for performing the described method. The method steps and/or actions may be interchanged with one another. In other words, unless a specific order of steps or actions is required for proper operation of the embodiment, the order and/or use of specific steps and/or actions may be modified. Moreover, sub-routines or only a portion of a method described herein may be a separate method within the scope of this disclosure. Stated otherwise, some methods may include only a portion of the steps described in a more detailed method. Additionally, all embodiments disclosed herein are combinable and/or interchangeable unless stated otherwise or such combination or interchange would be contrary to the stated operability of either embodiment.
The handheld disinfection device (device) 110 includes a device body 111 defining a distal end 111A and a proximal end 111B. The device 110 includes a UV light source 120 coupled with the device body 111 where UV light source 120 may include any number (e.g., 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 or more) of individual light sources (e.g., light emitting diodes). The UV light source 120 is configured to project the UV light 121 away from a projection surface 123 of the device body 111. The device 110 further includes a console 115 operatively coupled with the UV light source 120. The console 115 includes a processor 115A, a memory 115B (e.g., non-transitory computer-readable medium), and a power source 115C (e.g., a battery). Logic stored on the memory, when executed by the processor, performs operations of the device 110, where the operations may include (i) activating the UV light source 120 to project the UV light 121 and/or (ii) deactivating the UV light source to halt the projection of the UV light 121.
The UV light 121 may include any wavelength spectrum suitable for disinfecting a surface. For example, the UV light may include a UV-C wavelength spectrum range of 100 nm to 280 nm. In some embodiments, the UV light 121 may include the Far UV-C spectrum range of 207 nm to 225 nm.
In the illustrated embodiment, the device 110 includes a button 116 disposed on the device body 111 and in some embodiments, the logic may be configured to activate the UV light source 120 in response to pressing the button 116.
In some embodiments, the device 110 may include a proximity sensor 117 configured to determine a distance between the projection surface 123 and the skin surface 50. The logic may govern activation and/or deactivation of the UV light source 120 based the distance between the projection surface 123 and the skin surface 50 as determined by the proximity sensor 117. For example, the logic may prevent activation the UV light source 120 unless the projection surface 123 is positioned within a predefined distance from the skin surface 50. Similarly, the logic may automatically deactivate the UV light source 120 when the projection surface 123 is moved away from the skin surface 50 such that the distance between the projection surface 123 and the skin surface 50 is greater than the predefined distance. In some embodiments, the logic may deactivate the UV light source 120 after a predefined duration of UV light activation so as to prevent over exposure of the UV light 121.
The device 110 may be a stand-alone unit or the device 110 may be combined with another medical device or apparatus, such as an ultrasound probe, a remote controller of another medical device/system, or an arm band configured to attach/adhere the device 110 to a clinician, for example
The device 110 may include a UV shield 130 coupled with or incorporated into the device body 111, according some embodiments. The UV shield 130 may include a cylindrical wall 132 extending around and away from the projection surface 123 of the device body 111. The UV shield 130 is generally configured to prevent exposure of the UV light 121 to items, people, or portions of the patient 40 other than the insertion site area 51 of the skin surface 50 proximate an open end 131 of the shield 130, i.e., the UV shield 130 is configured to limit UV light exposure to a disinfection area of the skin surface 50 proximate the open end 131 of the UV shield 130. A material of the shield 130 may include one or more of cerium oxide, titanium oxide, carbon black, plastic acrylics, polystyrene, or polycarbonate. As may be appreciated by one of ordinary skill, the UV shield 130 may take any suitable tubular shape, such as cylindrical, polygonal, or oval, for example.
The UV shield 130 may be configured to contact the skin surface 50 at the open end 131. In the illustrated embodiment, a length 133 of the UV shield may define a minimum distance between the skin surface 50 and the projection surface 123, where the minimum distance may limit the intensity of the UV light 121 projected onto the skin surface 50. In some embodiments, the device 110 further may include a contact sensor 118 coupled with the console 115, where the contact sensor 118 is configured to detect a physical contact between the open end 131 of the UV shield 130 and the skin surface 50. In such embodiments, the logic may prevent activation of the UV light source 120 in the absence of the physical contact. Similarly, in some embodiments, the logic may activate the UV light source 120 in response to the physical contact, i.e. when the contact sensor 118 detects the physical contact.
A method of disinfecting a skin surface of a patient may include all or any subset of the following steps, actions or processes, according to some embodiments. The method may include positioning a handheld disinfection device proximate the skin surface, where the hand held device includes a device body and a number of ultraviolet (UV) light sources coupled with the device body, and where the UV light source is configured to project a UV light away from a projection surface of the device body. The handheld disinfection device further includes a console operatively coupled with the UV light source, where the console includes a processor and a memory having stored thereon logic that, when executed by the processor, causes operations of the handheld disinfection device. The method may further include activating the UV light source to disinfect the skin surface.
In some embodiments of the method, activating the UV light source to disinfect the skin surface may be performed in preparation of performing a vascular access procedure, and in some embodiments of the method, activating the UV light source may include pressing a button disposed on the device body.
In some embodiments of the method, the handheld disinfection device further includes a proximity sensor configured to determine a distance between the projection surface and the skin surface, and logic of the handheld disinfection device prevents activation of the UV light source unless the projection surface is positioned within a predefined distance from the skin surface. In such embodiments, the method may further include positioning the projection surface within the predefined distance to allow activation of the UV light source.
In some embodiments of the method, the logic of the handheld disinfection device automatically deactivates the UV light source after a predefined duration of UV light activation.
In some embodiments of the method, the handheld disinfection device includes a UV shield having a cylindrical wall extending around and away from the projection surface of the device body, where the UV shield is configured to limit UV exposure to a disinfection area of the skin surface proximate an open end of the UV shield. The UV shield is configured to contact the skin surface at the open end, and a length of the UV shield to defines a minimum distance between the skin surface and the projection surface.
In some embodiments of the method, the handheld disinfection device further includes a contact sensor coupled with the console, where the contact sensor is configured to detect a physical contact between the open end of the shield and the skin surface. In such embodiments of the method, activating the UV light source includes contacting the skin surface with the open end of the shield.
Referring to
The UV shield 230 is positioned between a clinician and the UV light source 220 so that the clinician is protected from exposure to the UV light 221. In some embodiments, the UV shield 230 extends laterally upward away from the device body 221. In some embodiments, a wall 232 of the UV shield 230 is formed of a refractory material such that the UV light 221 entering the wall 232 is prevented from exiting the wall 232.
In some embodiments, the device 210 further includes a visible light source 225 coupled with the device body 211, where the visible light source 225 is configured to project a visible light 226 onto the skin surface 50 to visibly illuminate the skin surface 50. In some embodiments, the visible light source 225 may project the visible light 226 away from the projection surface 223. The visible light source 225 may include one or more of a laser, an optical fiber, a light emitting diode, or any other suitable device configured to emit visible light.
In some embodiments, the device 210 further includes a console 215 operatively coupled with the UV light source 220, where the console 215 includes a processor and a memory having stored thereon logic that governs the operation of the device 210. For example, the logic may deactivate the UV light source 220 after a defined duration. The defined duration may include one of a number of time increments (e.g., 1, 2, 5, or more seconds) stored in the memory or a time increment set by the clinician.
In some embodiments, the device 210 may further include a proximity sensor 217 configured to determine a distance 233 between the projection surface 223 and the skin surface 50. In some embodiments, the logic may prevent activation the UV light source 220 unless the projection surface 223 is positioned within a predefined distance 233 from the skin surface 50.
A method of disinfecting a skin surface of a patient may include all or any subset of the following steps, actions or processes, according to some embodiments. The method may include positioning a handheld disinfection device proximate the skin surface. The hand held device includes a device body and an ultraviolet (UV) light source coupled with the device body, and the UV light source is configured to project a UV light away from a projection surface of the device body. The method may further include (i) activating the UV light source to disinfect the skin surface and (ii) viewing the skin surface through a UV light shield of the handheld disinfection device.
In some embodiments, the method may further include activating a visible light source of the handheld disinfection device to visibly illuminate the skin surface.
In some embodiments of the method, the handheld disinfection device further includes a proximity sensor configured to determine a distance between the projection surface and the skin surface and a console operatively coupled with the UV light source and the proximity sensor. The console includes a processor and a memory having stored thereon logic that, when executed by the processor, causes operations of the handheld disinfection device that include preventing activation of the UV light source unless the projection surface is positioned within a predefined distance from the skin surface. In such embodiments, the method may further include positioning the projection surface within the predefined distance to allow activation of the UV light source.
In some embodiments of the method, the logic of the handheld disinfection device automatically deactivates the UV light source after a defined duration of UV light activation. In some embodiments, the defined duration includes at least one of (i) any one of a number of preset time increments stored in the memory or (ii) a time increment set by the clinician.
In some embodiments, the perimeter wall 311 may be configured to contain the UV light 321 within the enclosure 310, i.e., the perimeter wall 311 may be prevent exposure of the UV light 321 to objects disposed outside the enclosure 310. In some, embodiments the perimeter wall 311 may be formed of a material transparent to visible light. The enclosure 310 may include an opening (not shown), such as a doorway, to enable ingress and egress of the enclosure 310. In some embodiments, the enclosure 310 may include a temporary structure configured for temporary setup and use within a medical environment, where the medical environment may include any environment where a medical procedure may take place, such as a hospital, a clinic, or an emergency medical environment, (.e., a military medical tent), for example.
The UV light sources 320 may be dispersed across an interior of the enclosure 310 in any suitable fashion such that the UV light 321 is projected radially inward onto the person exterior 51. In some embodiments, the UV light sources 320 may be dispersed across substantial entirety of a perimeter wall 311, such that the person 50 is bathed in the UV light 321 (i.e., a substantial entirety of the person exterior 51 is exposed to the UV light 321) when the person 50 is standing within the enclosure 310. In other embodiments, the UV light sources 320 may be coupled with the perimeter wall 311 such that the UV light 321 is projected in one or more discreet directions onto the person exterior 51. In such embodiments, the person 50 may rotate (i.e., turn around) to enable the UV light 321 to be projected onto a substantial entirety of the person exterior 51. By way of one example, the UV light sources 320 may be arranged in a vertical linear array along opposing vertical sides of the perimeter wall 311. In such an embodiment, the person 50 may rotate 180 degrees to enable the UV light 321 to be projected on the substantial entirety of the person exterior 51.
The system 300 may include a console 315 including a processor and a memory (a non-transitory computer-readable medium) having logic stored thereon, where the logic governs operation of the system 300. The console 315 is coupled with the UV lights sources 320 so that the logic may activate and/or deactivate the UV lights sources 320. The logic may be configured to record a disinfecting event, where parameters of the disinfecting event may include one or more of a date of the disinfecting event, a time of the disinfecting event, or activation duration of the UV lights sources 320.
In some embodiments, the system 300 may further include a UV light detection system 340 configured to detect an exposure of the UV light 321 on the person exterior 50, e.g., determine when the person exterior 50 is exposed to the UV light 321. In some embodiments, the UV light detection system 340 may be configured to determine an intensity of the UV light exposure, where the intensity of the UV light exposure may be related to a level of disinfection.
In some embodiments, the UV light detection system 340 may include a first UV light detector 341 (or multiple first UV light detectors 341) physically coupled with the enclosure 310. The first UV light detector 341 may be configured to detect UV light emanating from the person exterior 51, e.g., reflecting off the person exterior 51, and in some embodiments, the first UV light detector 341 may be configured to determine the intensity of the UV light emanating from the person exterior 51, where the UV light emanating from the person exterior 51 may be related to the UV light 321 projected onto the person exterior 51. In some embodiments, the first UV light detector 341 may be configured to scan the person exterior 51 to determine if the substantial entirety of the person exterior 51 is exposed to the UV light 321. For example, the first UV light detector 341 may detect if any portion of the person exterior 51 is not exposed to the UV light 321. In some embodiments, the first light detector 341 may be communicatively coupled with the console 315.
In some embodiments, the UV light detection system 340 may include, in lieu of or in addition to the first UV light detector 341, a second UV light detector 342, where the second light detector 342 is configured to be attached to the person exterior 51. The second UV light detector 342 is configured to detect the UV light 321 received by the person exterior 51. In some embodiments, the UV light detection system 340 may include multiple second UV light detectors 342. In some embodiments, the second light detector 342 may be communicatively coupled with the console 315. The logic may be configured to determine a profile of UV light exposure on the person exterior 51. The profile of UV light exposure may include a coverage assessment of the UV light exposure. In other words, the logic receive signals or data from the first and/or second UV light detectors 341, 342 and determine therefrom what portions of the person exterior 51 have been exposed to the UV light 321 and/or what portions of the person exterior 51 have not been exposed to the UV light 321.
A method of disinfecting a person exterior may include all or any subset of the following steps, actions or processes, according to some embodiments. The method may include placing the person within an enclosure of a medical disinfection system having a plurality of ultraviolet (UV) light sources coupled with the enclosure, where the UV light sources are configured to project UV light onto a person exterior of the person to disinfect the person exterior; and (ii) activating the UV light sources.
In some embodiments of the method of disinfecting a person, the UV light sources are coupled with a rotatable frame within the enclosure, and the method may further include rotating the frame around the person.
In some embodiments of the method of disinfecting a person exterior, the medical disinfection system further includes a UV light detection system configured to detect a UV light exposure on the person exterior, and the method may further include determining a profile of UV light exposure on the person exterior.
In some embodiments the method of disinfecting a person exterior further includes recording a disinfecting event, where parameters of the disinfecting event include one or more of (i) a date of the disinfecting event; (ii) a time of the disinfecting event; (iii) a duration of the UV light source activation; (iv) an intensity of UV light exposure on the person exterior; or (v) the profile of UV light exposure.
The UV light sources 420 may be configured to attach to inside surfaces of the patient transport vehicle 60, and the UV light sources 420 may be configured to project the UV light 421 inward away from the inside surfaces to expose the objects to the UV light 421. In some embodiments, the UV light system 419 may include one or more reflective surfaces 422 configured to reflect the UV light 421 and thereby enhance the exposure of the objects to the UV light 421. As the patient and other medical personal may occupy the patient transport vehicle 60, the UV light system 419 may be configured to activate the UV light sources during periods of non-operation of the patient transport vehicle 60. For example, the system 400 may be configured disinfect the patient transport vehicle 60 between patient transport events.
The UV light system 419 may be configured for selective placement within different arears or compartments of the patient transport vehicle 60, i.e., the UV light system 419 may be portable. Similarly, the UV light system 419 may be configured for selective placement within different patient transport vehicles 60 as needed. In the illustrated embodiment, the UV light system 419 may be portable between at least a first compartment and a second compartment of the patient transport vehicle 60. In some embodiments, the first compartment may include a medical personnel compartment 62 (i.e., a cab of the vehicle) and the UV light system 419 is configured to disinfect objects within the medical personnel compartment 66. In some embodiments, the UV light system 419 may be configured to deactivate the UV light sources 420 when an occupant is present within the medical personnel compartment 66 to prevent exposure of the occupant to the UV light 421. In some embodiments, the second compartment may include a patient compartment 63 and the UV light system 419 may be configured to disinfect objects within the patient compartment 63. In some embodiments, the UV light sources 420 may be coupled with an overhead ceiling surface 63A of the patient compartment 63.
In some embodiments, the UV light system 419 may include a remote control 414 configured to enable a user of the system 400 to remotely activate and deactivate the UV light sources 420. In some embodiments, the UV light system 419 may include a timer 415 operatively coupled with the UV light sources 420, where the timer 415 may be configured to at least deactivate the UV light sources 420 after a defined activation time period. In some embodiments, the timer 415 may also be configured to activate the UV light sources 420 according to a defined schedule or time increments. The UV light system 419 may be electrically coupled with an electrical system 67 of the patient transport vehicle 60. In some embodiments, the UV light system 419 may include a battery (not shown) in leu of or in addition to being coupled with the electrical system 67.
In some embodiments, the shroud 583 is configured to transition between a deployed position 583A and a retracted position 583B (shown in phantom lines). In the deployed position 583A, the shroud 583 may substantially cover (or encapsulate) the high-touch surface 581A so that the UV light source 521 may effectively expose a substantial entirety of the high-touch surface 581A to the UV light 521. Conversely, in the retracted position 583B, the shroud 583 may substantially uncover the high-touch surface 581A, i.e., the shroud 583 may be disposed sufficiently away from the high-touch surface 581A, to allow the user to access to the handle 581.
The UV light source 620, including the elongate member 630, is configured to be selectively inserted within the tube 655 and removed from the tube 655. In some embodiments, the user may insert the UV light source 620 into the tube 655 to disinfect the tube 655 between CPAP events. In some embodiments, the UV light source 620 includes a single light source 620 at the free end 631. In such embodiments, the UV light source 620 may disinfect portions of segments of the interior 655A during advancement or retraction of the UV light source 620 along the length of the tube 655. In other embodiments, the UV light source 620 includes a plurality of UV light sources 620 disposed along a length of the elongate member 630. In such other embodiments, the UV light source 620 may disinfect the interior 655A after placement of the elongate member 630 within the tube 655, i.e., while the elongate member 630 resides within the tube 655.
In some embodiments, the UV light system 619 may include a notification system 617 configured to indicate a status of a disinfection cycle of the UV light system 619. In some embodiments, the notification system 617 may include a light or other visual indicator configured to indicate the status of the disinfection cycle (e.g., an “on” of “off” condition of the UV light source 620). In other embodiments, the notification system 617 may include an audible indicator to indicate the status of the disinfection cycle. In still other embodiments, the notification system 617 may include both the visual indicator and the audible indicator.
The UV light source 620, including the elongate member 632, is configured for automatic advancement within the tube 655 and retraction from the tube 655. More specifically, an actuator (not shown) of CPAP module 654 may insert the UV light source 620 into the tube 655 to disinfect the tube 655 between CPAP events. In some embodiments, the UV light source 620 includes a single light source 620 at the free end 631, such that the UV light source 620 disinfects portions or segments of the interior 655A during advancement and/or retraction of the UV light source 620 along the length of the tube 655. In other embodiments, the UV light source 620 includes a plurality of UV light sources 620 disposed along a length of the elongate member 632. In such other embodiments, the UV light source 620 may disinfect the interior 655A after advancement of the elongate member 632 within the tube 655 and before retraction of the elongate member 632 from the tube 655. In some embodiments, the CPAP module 654 may contain the elongate member 632 when the elongate member 632 is not disposed within the tube 355, i.e., between disinfecting events.
In some embodiments, the light source 620 may include a light emitting diode (LED) 620A at the free end 633. In other embodiments, the light source 620 may include a light emitting diode 620B disposed within the CPAP module 654. In such other embodiments, the elongate member 632 may be configured to propagate the UV light 621 along the elongate member 632 and project the UV light 621 away from the elongate member 632. In some embodiments, the light source 620 may include an optical fiber extending along the elongate member 632. In some embodiments, the notification system 617 may be incorporated into the CPAP system 650.
As the UV light system 619 is incorporated into the CPAP system 650, the UV light system 619 may be configured to automatically initiate the disinfection cycle in accordance with operation of the CPAP system 650. For example, UV light system 619 may automatically initiate a disinfection cycle between CPAP events or according to a defined schedule, such as during periods of non-sleep of the user.
In some embodiments, the UV light system 619 may include a sensor 660 configured to detect a contamination of the tube 655. In such embodiments, the UV light system 619 may be configured to initiate the disinfection cycle based on a detection of the contamination. For example, the UV light system 619 may be configured to initiate the disinfection cycle only if or when the contamination of the tube 655 is detected. The sensor 660 may include any suitable sensor for detecting the contamination, such as an optical sensor, a capacitance sensor, an inductance sensor, or an ultrasonic sensor, for example.
The UV light system 719 includes a UV light source 720 coupled with or incorporated into the elongate member 730. In the illustrated embodiment, the UV light source 720 includes an optical fiber 723 which may extend along the length 733. The UV light source 720 is generally configured to expose the inside surface 752 to a UV light 721, where the UV light 721 is configured to disinfect the inside surface 752. The optical fiber 723 is configured to project the UV light 721 radially outward from the optical fiber 723 along the length 733. In some embodiments, the optical fiber 723 includes a coating 736 configured to disperser the UV light 721 within the lumen 751. In some embodiments, the UV light system 719 may be configured for single use such that the UV light system 719 is discarded after the single use. In other embodiments, the UV light system 719 may be configured for repeated use.
In some embodiments, the medical disinfection system 700 further includes a liquid absorbing device 760. The liquid absorbing device 760 may be attached to the elongate member 730, such as at a distal end of the elongate member 730, for example. The liquid absorbing device 760 is configured to remove a liquid (e.g., residual saliva) from the lumen 751. In other words, the liquid absorbing device 760 is configured to dry the lumen 751. In some embodiments, the liquid absorbing device 760 includes a cloth member configured to swab the inside surface 752 during insertion of the elongate member 730 into the lumen 751 and/or removal of the elongate member 730 from the lumen 751. In some embodiments, the liquid absorbing device 760 may be configured for attachment to and detachment from the elongate member 730 by the user.
The UV light system 719 is transitionable between a use state and a storage state. In the storage state, the elongate member 734 is disposed in a proximal position such that the distal portion 737A and the UV light source 720 are disposed within the casing lumen 756 as illustrated in
The enclosure 810 includes a perimeter wall 811 configured to contain the UV light 821 within the enclosure 810. In some embodiments, the UV light source 820 includes a plurality of UV light sources 820 that are dispersed across an interior surface 811A of the perimeter wall 811. As such, the UV light sources 820 are configured to project the UV light 821 inward onto the medical devices 830.
The enclosure 810 may include a number of shelves 812 disposed within the enclosure 810 and the shelves 812 are configured for placement of the medical devices 830 thereon. In some embodiments, one or more of the UV light sources 820 are disposed between adjacent shelves 812.
In some embodiments, at least a first subset of the UV light sources 820 include light emitting diodes (not shown). In some embodiments, at least a second subset of the plurality of UV light sources 820 includes optical fibers (not shown), where each optical fiber is configured to project the UV light 821 laterally away from the optical fiber so as to expose the medical devices 830 with the UV light 821.
The medical disinfection system 800 may include a console 815 that is operatively coupled with the UV light source 820. The console 815 includes a processor and a memory (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable medium) having stored thereon logic that, when executed by the processor, causes operations of the medical disinfection system 800. The operations may include at least activating the UV light source 820. In some embodiments, the operations further include receiving input from a user and adjusting a duration of UV light activation based on the input from the user.
In some embodiments, the system 800 further includes a medical device identification system 860. The medical device identification system 860 is configured to identify at least one medical device 830 or more than one medical device 830 disposed within the enclosure 810. The medical device identification system 860 may include any suitable identification mechanism, such as a bar code reader, or a radio frequency identification reader, for example. According to one embodiment, the medical device identification system 860 may include a camera (not shown) coupled with the console 815 where the camera is configured to obtain an image of the at least one medical device 830. The logic may be configured to compare the obtained image with medical device images stored in the memory. Based on the comparison, the medical device identification system 860 may identify the at least one medical device 830. In some embodiments, the logic may automatically adjust the duration of UV light activation based on the identification of the at least one medical device 830.
In some embodiments, the medical disinfection system 800 may further include a temperature control system 870. The temperature control system 870 may including a heating system configured to warm the medical devices 830 disposed within the enclosure 810 and/or a cooling system (e.g., a refrigeration system) configured to cool the medical devices 830 disposed within the enclosure 810.
In some embodiments, each UV light source 920 includes an elongate member 925 (e.g., an elongate pin), and each UV light source 920 is configured to project the UV light 921 away from a free end 925A of the elongate member 925. In some embodiments, each UV light source 920 is directly coupled with the frame 910. In some embodiments, the frame 910 includes a plate 911 extending across the disinfection area 905, and each UV light source 920 is individually displaceable with respect to the plate 911. The plate 911 includes a plurality of apertures 912 extending through the plate 911, and each elongate member 925 is slidably disposed within a corresponding aperture 912. In some embodiments, each UV light source 920 includes a light guide 926 (e.g., an optical fiber) extending along the elongate member 925. In some embodiments, the medical disinfection system 900 may include a light module 921 that includes a number of UV light emitting devices 921A (e.g., light emitting diodes) optically coupled with the UV light sources 920.
The package 1000 generally includes a container 1010 and a cover 1011. The container 1010 includes a number (e.g., 1, 2, 3, or more) of compartments such as a first compartment 1010A and a second compartment 1010B. A first medical device 1030A is disposed within the first compartment 1010A and a second medical device 1030B is disposed within the second compartment 101B. Each of the first and second medical devices 1030A, 1030B are configured to be disinfected (e.g., sterilized) via exposure to a dose of the UV light 1021. In some embodiments, a dose of UV light is defined by a combination of UV light intensity and a duration of exposure. In some embodiments, a medical device may require at least a defined dose (or dose range) of UV light in order to be adequately disinfected. Further in some embodiments, the medical device may be damaged by a dose of UV light that exceeds the defined dose (or dose range). Further still, some medical devices may require a greater dose than other medical devices. In the illustrated embodiment, the first medical device 1030A is configured to receive a first dose of the UV light 1021 to disinfect the first medical device 1030A, and the second medical device 1030B is configured to receive a second dose of the UV light 1021 to disinfect the second medical device 1030B. For purpose of description, the second dose is greater than the first dose. The container 1010 is configured to facilitate exposure of the first and second medical devices 1030A, 1030B to the UV light 1021. The inside wall surfaces 1010C may be configured to reflect the UV light 1021 so that a substantial entirety of the first and second medical devices 1030A, 1030B are exposed to the UV light 1021.
The cover 1011 is generally configured to retain the first and second medical devices 1030A, 1030B within the first and second compartments 1010A, 1010B, respectively. The cover 1011 is removeably coupled with the container 1010 so as to extend across open ends (e.g., open top ends) of the first and second compartments 1010A, 1010B. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 1011 includes a first cover portion 1011A extending across the open end of the first compartment 1010A and a second cover portion 1011B extending across the open end of the second compartment 1010B. In use, a user may peel the cover 1011 from the container 1010 to gain access to the first and second medical devices 1030A, 1030B. The first cover portion 1011A and the second cover portion 1011B may be removed individually from the first and second compartments 1010A, 1010B, respectively.
In some embodiments, the cover 1011 may be configured to allow transmission of the UV light 1021 through the cover 1011. In the illustrated embodiment, the first cover portion 1011A is configured to allow the first dose of the UV light 1021 to enter the first compartment 1010A (i.e., pass through the first cover portion 1011A) to disinfect the first medical device 1030A. Similarly, the second cover portion 1011B is configured to allow the second dose of the UV light 1021 to enter the second compartment 1010B (i.e., pass through the second cover portion 1011A) to disinfect the second medical device 1030B.
The layers 1012 may each be configured to limit or control the transmission of the UV light 1021 through the cover 1011. For example, the first layer 1012A may be configured to prevent the transmission of the UV light 1021, and the second and third layers 1012B, 1012C may be configured to allow a limited transmission of the UV light 1021. By way of example, the user may remove the first layer 1012A from the first cover portion 1011A. In such an instance, the remaining second and third layers 1012B, 1012C may allow the first dose of UV light 1021 to enter the first compartment 1010A to disinfect the first medical device 1030A. By way of another example, the user may remove the first and second layers 1012A, 1012B from the second cover portion 1011B. In such an instance, the remaining third layer 1012C may allow the second dose of UV light 1021 to enter the second compartment 1010B to disinfect the second medical device 1030B.
While some particular embodiments have been disclosed herein, and while the particular embodiments have been disclosed in some detail, it is not the intention for the particular embodiments to limit the scope of the concepts provided herein. Additional adaptations and/or modifications can appear to those of ordinary skill in the art, and, in broader aspects, these adaptations and/or modifications are encompassed as well. Accordingly. departures may be made from the particular embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the scope of the concepts provided herein.
This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/458,500, filed Apr. 11, 2023, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety into this application.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63458500 | Apr 2023 | US |
