Summary:
UCLA researchers from the Department of Orthopedic Surgery have developed a portable gadget for handling medical packaging in the healthcare space.
Background:
Healthcare workers operate in a dynamic environment where they use a variety of medical supplies including gauze pads, pills, and face masks. Disposable supplies can be packaged in layers of plastic wrap, cardboard, and tamper-proof contraptions. Currently, there is no accepted standard for dealing with this wide array of packaging. As a result, nurses will frequently use their nails, keys, or other tools that may not be suited for the healthcare setting and can introduce contamination. Through a survey of nurses in Los Angeles, many indicated a willingness to try using a tool specifically designed to open packages in a medical setting. The time spent handling packaging reduces the time available to care for patients. This issue is compounded by the growing nursing shortage that is projected to grow as our population ages. Therefore, it is vital that hospitals and clinics provide nursing staff with cost-effective tools to optimize their work.
Innovation:
UCLA researchers led by Veronica Pellegrino developed a two-piece system to aid nurses in opening packages. The top consists of a cover and lanyard adapter while the bottom consists of a finger port and the package opening tool. This design makes the tool easily accessible as well as hygienic; it is protected from the outside environment with its cover. The tool is operated by the finger, and various modifications have been proposed to control how the finger interfaces with the tool. This device has the potential to reduce the time nurses spend handling medical packaging while also mitigating contamination risks.
Press Release:
UCLA nurse’s invention may save millions of work hours
Pitch Presentation:
YouTube: A Nurse-Centered Innovation
Patent:
Portable, lanyard-attachable pill-popper gadget
Potential Applications:
• Medical package removal
• Pill bottle opener
• Nursing care
• Home healthcare
Advantages:
• Two-piece system reduces risk of contamination
• Modular design for handling various packaging materials
• Ease-of-use and accessibility
Development to Date:
A survey of registered nurses revealed that most nurses do not use a device made specifically for opening medical packaging, but that they are willing to use one. A prototype has been shown to aid in opening pill packages. Various other modules have been conceived for application in the medical setting.
Reference:
UCLA Case No. 2022-238
Lead Inventor:
Veronica Pellegrino