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Method and apparatus for detecting and identifying device utilization

  • US 8,558,660 B2
  • Filed: 11/17/2009
  • Issued: 10/15/2013
  • Est. Priority Date: 11/19/2008
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A system for detecting the use of a monitored hand hygiene device, the system comprising:

  • an exit/entry detector for detecting an individual entering a room, the exit/entry detector incorporating a transmitter for transmitting a first range limited signal over a limited area upon detecting the individual entering the room;

    a tag wearable by an individual operable in a low power sleep mode and in an active mode, the tag including a receiver configured to receive the first range limited signal or a second range limited signal in a sleep mode and switch to an active mode in response thereto to transmit a signal with a transmitter wherein the signal includes at least an identification code from which a health care provider role of the individual associated with the tag may be determined;

    a control unit including a sensor for detecting a parameter indicating use of the monitored hand hygiene device, the control unit incorporating a receiver and a transmitter for transmitting the second range limited signal upon detecting the parameter indicating use of the monitored hand hygiene device whereby the tag is activated by the transmitted second range limited signal from the control unit to transmit the signal to the receiver with its associated transmitter wherein the signal includes at least the identification code;

    a feedback device in proximity to the monitored hand hygiene device, the feedback device providing the individual using the monitored hand hygiene device with health condition information specific to health conditions for which a patient in the room is being treated and to the health care provider role associated with the tag of the individual wherein the health condition information is provided upon the control unit receiving the signal transmitted from the tag in response to the tag receiving the second range limited signal; and

    a network including a server, the server operable to receive information from at least the tag.

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