Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
Docket #: 178-P01.CA
SPECIFICATION
ISOLATION HOUSING FOR PATIENT HAVING A CONTAGIOUS
DISEASE
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present relates to patient isolation enclosures,
and more particularly to isolation enclosures to isolate a
patient having a highly contagious disease such as that caused
by viral, fungal, bacterial or protozoal infections.
BACKGROUND
[0002] When a human patient contracts a highly contagious
disease caused by microorganisms, such as viruses, fungi,
bacteria or protozoans, isolating the infected patient from
healthy people is an effective way to significantly reduce or
to prevent spread of the disease.
This is particularly
important when the patient is housed in a hospital
environment. The risk of disease transmission to caregivers,
such as doctors and nurses, and other patients, is high.
Furthermore, the risk of disease transmission increases when
family members, who may be exposed to the patient during the
infectious phase of the disease, leave the immediate area near
the patient and travel elsewhere. Also, first responders such
as paramedics, who may be called to a person's home when they
are initially taken ill and need transportation to a hospital,
are at high risk of catching the disease. Moreover, further
transmission of the disease to others by contact with
contaminated clothing is a significant problem.
[0003] For diseases that infect the respiratory airways,
isolation is particularly important especially if the disease
is spread by aerosolization of droplets containing virus or
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Docket #: 178-P01.CA
SPECIFICATION
bacteria particles such as when the patient coughs or sneezes.
In some cases, infectious agents can spread to healthy people
if they contact bodily fluids such as blood, sweat, urine or
fecal matter.
[0004] It is well known that an effective way to isolate an
infected patient is to place a physical barrier between the
patient and the caregiver. However, even if the patient is
isolated behind the barrier, the virus or bacteria may still
be present in the area on or around the patient, which puts at
risk caregivers if they need to take blood samples or carry
out routine nursing duties.
[0005] A number of groups have noted the need to isolate
patients and have designed a number of isolation units which
provide a physical barrier between the patient and the
caregiver. Several examples of these are shown below:
[0006] Published United States patent application number
US20020087045 for "Transparent disposable cover for patient
transport";
[0007] Published United States patent application number
US20030116566 for "Collapsible restraining enclosure for a
bed";
[0008] Published United States patent application number
US20040261324 for "Self-contained living environment";
[0009] Published United States patent application number
U520050235418 for "Bed enclosure";
[00NO] Published United States patent application number
U520050283913 for "Patient cooling system";
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SPECIFICATION
[00011] Published United States patent application number
US20060020159 for "Portable isolation enclosure";
[00012] Published United States patent application number
US20060021621 for "Sterile environments";
[00013] Published United States patent application number
US20060247487 for "Apparatus and method for providing
continuous access to an isolation space while maintaining
isolation";
[00014] Published United States patent application number
US20080041399 for "Sterile Enclosures"; and
[00015] Published United States patent application number
US20170273844 for "Patient Isolation Tent".
[00016] While many of the above-noted designs protect
caregivers from catching the disease, the care of the patient
during isolation appears to be overlooked, especially if the
patient is to be in isolation for an extended period.
Disadvantageously, the examples given above do not allow for
expansion of the isolation tent so that they can be used with
hospital beds of different sizes. Most, if not all of the
tents shown above are a "one size fits all" design and do not
allow for expansion and contraction of the tent, and thus do
not provide comfort for the patient. For patients in prolonged
isolation, this can cause feelings of claustrophobia, which
may lead to mental health problems. Furthermore, the designs
shown above do not effectively provide an inexpensive means by
which the caregiver can quickly access the patient. While the
use of separate patient contact areas are available, they
appear to be overly complex. In most cases, a separate part
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SPECIFICATION
of the isolation tent is designed so that the hands and arms
enter, albeit covered, the isolated space occupied by the
patient. The patient access areas include materials that are
complimentary to the size and shape of the caregivers' hands
and arms, but of course this increases the complexity and
therefore the cost of manufacturing. Finally, since patients
have different sizes and shapes, there is a need for a bespoke
isolation tent design which can be modified according to the
needs of the patient.
[00017] Thus, there is clearly an unmet need for an improved
patient isolation system that not only provides a safe barrier
through which caregivers can administer care to the infected
patient, but also provides a living volume that improves the
experience during a prolonged hospital stay
BRIEF SUMMARY
[00018] We have designed a modular isolation enclosure (also
called an "isolation tent") for use primarily in hospital
environments that significantly reduces, or essentially
eliminates, the problems of "patient-to-caregiver" transfer of
highly contagious diseases such as those caused by viral,
fungal, protozoal, or bacterial infections, which spread
either by direct patient contact or via aerosolization of
mucosal droplets. Our enclosure provides a very simple, yet
effective and reliable way to protect caregivers against
airborne infectious disease spread. Our invention provides a
novel and unobvious flexible and expandable frame system,
which allows rapid expansion and contraction to accommodate
patients or beds of various sizes. Unlike conventional static
isolation tents, our enclosure addresses the problem of
patient access and patient claustrophobia, by allowing the
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Docket #: 178-P01.CA
SPECIFICATION
caregiver to quickly and easily slide the barrier sheet up
over the flexible rod system and then quickly resealing the
enclosure using a variety of closing means. In one example
the flexible rod system can create a patient-friendly arcuate
configuration with significant volume above the patient's
body. Moreover, the robust barrier provides improved patient
visibility and a significant reduction in patient
claustrophobia.
The enclosure provides a universal fit on
hospital bed frames via multiple sleeves and/or available
adaptor boots for intravenous (IV) poles and/or via altogether
flexible frame members or member components. Our design uses
clips, bungees, strings, adhesive tape fastener compatible to
provide an aerosol (virus) hermetic enclosure so that the
patient is enclosed in a sealed environment.
[00019] Since the enclosure is connected directly to the bed,
it provides a stable structure, which will not slip-off the
mattress and compromise the seal, unlike conventional
isolation tents, some of which merely rest on the bed and can
move about or even slide off the bed thereby compromising the
seal around the patient.
[00020] Another advantage our enclosure has over conventional
enclosures is that it can be shipped from a storage warehouse
to point of delivery in a very compact, pre-loaded manner. A
unique design of articulated structure (hinges) and/or
inserted telescoping posts structure aid the compact storage
and transportation.
Upon arrival at the destination, the
enclosure can be quickly and safely deployed by two people in
less than 30 seconds. Finally, after use, the enclosure can be
destroyed by incineration or transported to a landfill site
after de-contamination because the materials used in
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SPECIFICATION
construction are low weight, low volume materials and low
cost.
Furthermore, a key advantage that our new isolation
housing provides is the ability to minimize the height and
width of the bed if or when a patient needs to be transported
between rooms in the hospital, such as for X-rays and the like
which may be located remote from the intensive care unit. Our
isolation housing allows for rapid lowering or narrowing of
the frame to move through doors or into/out of elevators.
[00021] For extended stay patients, the enclosure can be
modified to permit use of a backrest enclosure.
Pull-out end
flap allows the enclosure to be further extended to maintain
upper body coverage when the bed is adjusted to allow the
patient to sit up, while still maintaining a seal therearound.
[00022] Desirably, the enclosure can incorporate existing fan
and filter breathing systems via available fasteners and/or
adaptor plates and printed cutout templates. This embodiment
allows for ambient air to circulate within the enclosure
should the patient's condition require such.
[00023] Accordingly, in one embodiment there is provided an
apparatus for isolating a patient, the apparatus comprising:
[00024] a frame connected to a first portion of a support body
on which the patient is located, the frame having first and
second spaced apart rod members sized and shaped for location
away from the patient; and
[00025] a barrier sheet connected to the frame to define a
living volume of a size sufficient to substantially enclose
the patient therein, the barrier sheet having a patient access
portion to permit a caregiver access to the patient
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SPECIFICATION
[00026] In one example, each of the rod members includes a rod
length modifier located at one end thereof to permit the rod
member to extend and contract along a path of travel so as to
modify the distance between the frame and the patient. The
first and second spaced apart rod members includes first and
second spaced apart flexible rods, each rod flexible rod
having: i) first and second rod length modifiers located at
first and second rod ends; and ii)a passageway extending
between the first and second rod ends to slidably receive
therein the rod length modifiers. The first and second rod
length modifiers include a telescoping member slidably mounted
in the passageway, the telescoping member being mounted in the
passageway using an interference fit so that the telescoping
member moves along a restricted path of travel. The first and
second rod length modifiers include at least one lock to lock
the flexible rod when a desired rod length is achieved. Each
of the flexible rods includes a connecting end for connecting
the flexible rod to the support body. The connecting end is
connected to an intravenous (IV) pole receiver using an
interference fit.
[00027] In another example, each of the flexible rods includes
a connecting end for connecting the flexible rod to a support
body frame.
[00028] In another example, the first and second flexible rods
each include at least one first hinge to permit a lower
portion of each flexible rod to hinegably move away from the
patient. The at least one hinge permits movement of the lower
portion of the flexible rod from an upstanding configuration
to a orthogonally disposed configuration.
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SPECIFICATION
[00029] In yet another example, the first and second spaced
apart flexible rods are moveable relative to each other along
a longitudinal path so as to accommodate support bodies having
different lengths. Each flexible rod is made from a material
that is sufficiently flexible to permit forming of the rod
into a desired shape to accommodate the barrier sheet and the
support body.
[00OO] In yet another example, the first and second flexible
rods are arcuate.
[00031] In still another example, the support body is a
hospital bed. The hospital bed includes a hospital bed frame,
the frame being connected thereinto. The frame is mounted on
the floor around the hospital bed.
The support body is a
wheeled hospital gurney. The support body is an ambulance
stretcher.
[00032] In one example, the barrier sheet is shaped for
location over the first and second flexible rods, the barrier
sheet being secured to the rod members using one or more sheet
connectors. The sheet connectors are clip members located
along the length of each rod member to permit a caregiver to
sealingly connect the barrier sheet to the flexible rods. The
clip members extend around the perimeter of the support body
to secure the barrier sheet to the support body. The barrier
sheet includes first and second spaced apart sleeves into
which the first and second flexible rods are slidably mounted.
The barrier sheet includes first and second spaced apart
adhesive strips against which the first and second flexible
rods adhere. The barrier sheet is transparent.
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SPECIFICATION
[00033] In another example, the barrier sheet includes an
inner surface disposed towards the patient, and an exterior
side surface disposed outwardly towards the caregiver. The
barrier sheet is coated substantially across the entire
surface area with an antimicrobial material.
[00034] In another example, the barrier sheet includes a main
barrier sheet and an upper body enclosure sheet portion
configured to accommodate the patient's upper body when the
patient is permitted to sit up, the upper body enclosure sheet
being located rearwardly of a moveable upper body portion of
the support body.
[00035] In another example, the upper body enclosure sheet
portion being of sufficient volume to permit the patient's
head and upper body to move between a prone position and an
upright position.
[00036] In another example, the barrier sheet drapes
substantially over the four sides of the support body and
contacts the ground so as to completely enclose the patient
and the support body.
[00037] In yet another example, the patient access portion
includes a barrier sheet panel that is contiguous with the
barrier sheet, the barrier sheet panel having two opposing
sides temporarily sealed to the barrier sheet, the barrier
sheet panel being slidable along the along the flexible rods
to provide a temporary opening of sufficient size to allow the
caregiver access to the patient, and thereafter to re-seal the
temporary opening.
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Docket #: 178-P01.CA
SPECIFICATION
[00038] In yet another example, the at least one second hinge
located between the sleeves to allow collapse of the barrier
sheet and the frame for transportation.
[00039] In one example, an air pump and fan is connected to
the barrier sheet to communicate ambient air, and carbon
dioxide into and out of the living volume around the patient
through a filter.
[00040] In still another example, the patient has a highly
contagious disease. The highly contagious disease is a viral
infection or a bacterial infection. The viral infection is
COVID-19.
[00041] Accordingly, in another embodiment, there is provided
a method for deploying an isolation enclosure for location
around a patient having a highly infectious disease, the
method comprising:
[00042] locating first and second caregivers at respective
first and second ends of a collapsed and substantially
flattened isolation enclosure, the enclosure having first and
second spaced apart flexible arcuate-shaped rods, and a
barrier sheet connected to the flexible rods; and
[00043] applying a pulling force to the respective first and
second ends of the collapsed enclosure to fully deploy the
enclosure for location around the patient so that the patient
has a living volume therearound.
[00044] In one example, the method further comprises:
adjusting the flexible rod member lengths by extending or
contracting the rod member lengths using rod length modifiers
located at first and second rod ends so that the barrier sheet
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Docket #: 178-P01.CA
SPECIFICATION
defines a living volume of a size sufficient to substantially
enclose the patient therein.
[00045] Accordingly, in another embodiment, there is provided
a two-dimensional pattern for assembling an isolation
enclosure to isolate a patient, the patient having a highly
contagious disease, the two-dimensional pattern comprising:
[00046] a sheet of transparent material having a generally
rectangular-shaped central panel and first and second spaced
apart joints;
[00047] first and second end panel sheets each connected to
the respective spaced apart joints;
[00048] first and second spaced apart sleeve attachment
portions located on one side of the transparent material and
shaped to receive therein respective first and second flexible
rods; and
[00049] first and second substantially rhomboidal spaced apart
panels extending away from the rectangular-shaped central
panel, the sleeve attachment portions each extending from the
rhomboidal panels across the rectangular-shaped panel for
receiving therein the flexible rods during assembly of the
isolation enclosure.
[00OO] In one example, the first and second sleeve attachment
portions include an arcuate top portion and two concave side
portions contiguous therewith. The arcuate top portion and the
two concave portions are moustache shaped.
[00051] Accordingly, in yet another embodiment, there is
provided a two-dimensional pattern for assembling an isolation
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Docket #: 178-P01.CA
SPECIFICATION
enclosure to isolate a patient, the patient having a highly
contagious disease, the two-dimensional pattern comprising:
[00052] a sheet of transparent material having a generally
rectangular-shaped central panel and first and second spaced
apart joints;
[00053] first and second end square-shaped panel sheets each
connected to the respective spaced apart joints; and
[00054] first and second spaced apart sleeve attachment
portions located on one side of the transparent material and
shaped to receive therein respective first and second flexible
rods, the sleeve attachment portions each extending across the
rectangular-shaped central panel for receiving therein the
flexible rods during assembly of the isolation enclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[00055] These and other features of that described herein will
become more apparent from the following description in which
reference is made to the appended drawings wherein:
[00056] FIG. 1 is a perspective view an embodiment of an
isolation enclosure showing the location of two arcuate-shaped
flexible rods and a barrier sheet connected thereto;
[00057] FIG. 2 is an end view of the isolation enclosure
showing the location of a patient with arrows showing
modification of the height and width relative to the patient;
[00058] FIG. 3 is an end view diagrammatic representation of a
bed showing the isolation enclosure mounted on the bed;
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SPECIFICATION
[00059] FIG. 4 is an end view diagrammatic representation of a
bed showing the isolation enclosure mounted around the bed;
[00060] FIG. 5 is a representation of various shaped isolation
enclosures shown in end views;
[00061] FIG. 6 is a representation of various shaped isolation
enclosures shown in side views;
[00062] FIG. 7 is a partially exploded view of a flexible rod
showing a telescoping member;
[00063] FIG. 8 is a hinge member locked in a 90-degree
configuration;
[00064] FIG. 9 is the hinge member of FIG. 8 shown in a locked
longitudinal configuration;
[00065] FIG. 10 is an end view of a rod showing a telescoping
and the location of hinge members;
[00066] FIG. 11 is a side view of a barrier sheet showing a
problematic curvature of the sheet;
[00067] FIG. 12 is a sideview showing (with arrows) forces
applied by use of two flexible rods that straighten the
curvature showing in FIG. 11;
[00066] FIG. 13 is a side view of three locations of flexible
rods to straighten the curvature showing in FIG. 11 (bed
length adjustment);
[00069] FIG. 14 is an end view of a flexible rod showing
barrier sheet connectors connecting a barrier sheet thereto
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SPECIFICATION
and rod length modifiers with an expanded view of a lock
member;
[00070] FIG. 15 is a longitudinal side view of an isolation
enclosure showing barrier sheet connectors around the bed and
an upper body enclosure sheet folded behind the patient's
head;
[00071] FIG. 16 is a longitudinal side view of an isolation
enclosure showing the upper body enclosure sheet pulled away
from the enclosure;
[00072] FIG. 17 is a top view of an isolation enclosure
showing the location of the upper body enclosure sheet in a
storage configuration;
[00073] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an isolation
enclosure showing a patient access portion in which a panel is
moved in an accordion configuration;
[00074] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an isolation
enclosure showing a patient access portion in which a panel is
shown pushed up along the rods (solid arrow) or pushed down
along the rods (hashed arrows);
[00075] FIG. 20 is a diagrammatic representation of an
isolation enclosure showing a patient access portion in the
form of a sealable flap;
MON FIG. 21 is a diagrammatic representation of an
isolation enclosure showing a patient access portion in the
form of two sealable doors;
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Docket #: 178-P01.CA
SPECIFICATION
[00077] FIG. 22 is a diagrammatic representation of an
isolation enclosure showing patient access portions in the
form of sealable slits located on two barrier sheet panels;
[00078] FIG. 23 is a diagrammatic representation of an
isolation enclosure showing a patient access portion in the
form of a separate window made from a deformable material;
[00079] FIG. 24 is a diagrammatic representation of a hand
moving into the deformable material and causing the material
to cover the hand;
[00080] FIG. 25 is a top view of a flattened barrier sheet
showing sleeves, two rods and a number of hinges;
[00081] FIG. 26 is a side view of a partially collapsed
isolation enclosure showing an upper body portion;
[00082] FIG. 27 is a close-up side view of two sleeve with two
rods located therein;
[00083] FIG. 28 is a top view of an example of a flattened
barrier sheet showing two sleeves for receiving two rods;
[00084] FIG. 28A is a top view of another example of a
flattened barrier sheet showing two sleeves for receiving two
rods and a strip of shrink film (the arrows show the direction
of rod sliding);
[00085] FIG. 29 is a top view of another example of a
flattened barrier sheet showing two moustache-shaped sleeves
for receiving two rods;
MOW FIG. 30 is an end view of an isolation enclosure
showing an air vent/fan system;
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SPECIFICATION
[00087] FIG. 31 is a side view of the air vent/fan system of
FIG. 30 showing the location at one end of the bed; and
[00088] FIG. 32 is a side view of alternative embodiment of a
air vent/fan system located in different areas of the barrier
sheet.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Definitions
[00089] Unless otherwise specified, the following definitions
apply:
[00090] The singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include
corresponding plural references unless the context clearly
dictates otherwise.
[00091] As used herein, the term "comprising" is intended to
mean that the list of elements following the word "comprising"
are required or mandatory but that other elements are optional
and may or may not be present.
[00092] As used herein, the term "consisting of" is intended
to mean including and limited to whatever follows the phrase
"consisting of". Thus, the phrase "consisting of" indicates
that the listed elements are required or mandatory and that no
other elements may be present.
[00093] Referring now to FIGs 1 and 2, there is generally
illustrated at 10 an apparatus for isolating a patient 12.
Generally speaking, the patient 12 has contracted, or is
suspected of having contracted, a highly contagious disease
such as a viral infection, fungal infection or a bacterial
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SPECIFICATION
infection.
Examples of highly contagious diseases include,
but are not limited to, coronavirus, SARS, chickenpox,
measles, whooping cough, tuberculosis, diphtheria, and Ebola.
The diseases are generally spread by aerosolization of bodily
fluids and while the infection zone around the patient may be
relatively small, the viral particles may linger in the
atmosphere or on surfaces for some time. A
current very
pertinent example is when the patient has COVID-19, a highly
contagious viral disease. Therefore, any attempt by a
caregiver to administer care to the patient becomes a high-
risk endeavor.
The apparatus 10 includes a general frame
system 14, which is connected to a first portion 16 of a
support body 18, and a barrier sheet 20 connected to the frame
system 14.
Together, the frame system 14 and the barrier
sheet 20 form an isolation enclosure and thus a living volume
13 for the patient 12.
The support body 18 is a standard
hospital bed, a modified hospital bed such as those used in
intensive care units, a wheeled hospital gurney or an
ambulance stretcher. In one example, the support body 18 is a
hospital bed that includes a hospital bed frame 22 into which
the frame 14 is connected. In another example, the frame
system 14 is mounted on the hospital floor around the hospital
bed.
[00094] A person skilled in the art will readily understand
that the apparatus 10 for isolating the patient can be used
either as a stand-alone modular unit which is assembled and
then placed over the patient and located onto the bed, as
illustrated in FIG. 3, or is pre-assembled around the bed, as
illustrated in FIG. 4.
Furthermore, in impoverished areas
where beds may be unavailable, the isolation apparatus 10 can
be placed directly over the patient, if the patient is, for
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SPECIFICATION
example, lying on a mattress or in extreme conditions, lying
on the floor. In any case, the ability of the apparatus 10 to
provide isolation quickly and inexpensively, is highly
advantageous.
[00095] Still referring to FIG. 1, the frame 14 includes two
flexible rod members 24, 26 which are sized and shaped for
location away from the patient 12. The flexible rod members
24, 26 are made from a flexible material such as for example,
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) or cross-linked polyethylene, which
permits forming into various shapes. To provide additional
strength to the rod members 24, 26, a fiber glass rod insert
can be used. While it is possible to use fiber glass rods as
the frame system 14, their inherent brittle nature and
potential for "whiplash" makes fiber glass rods hazardous for
use. As used in the examples herein, the rod members 24, 26
are curved into an arcuate shaped upper portion 27 for reasons
that will be become clear below.
[00096] Depending on the nature of isolation or the
surrounding equipment, or on the preferred design by the
hospital, other shapes, as illustrated in FIGs 5 and 6, can
also be used as isolation enclosures. It is possible to
manufacture such shapes using plastic extrusion technology.
As material science technology advances, the inventors
envisage the use of carbon fiber, nanomaterials and the like,
which may improve the useable lifetime of the isolation
enclosure.
[00097] One of the key advantages of the present isolation
enclosure design is the ability of the caregivers to modify
the size of the living volume 13 in which the patient 12 is
being isolated.
In this example, each of the flexible rod
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SPECIFICATION
members 24, 26 includes a rod length modifier 28 located at
one end 30 thereof. The rod length modifier 28 is connected
either to the bed frame 22 or to a separate mounting system 32
adjacent the bed frame 22. The rod length modifier 28 allows
each of the rod member 24, 26 to extend and contract along a
path of travel 34. Each of the flexible rod members 24, 26
includes the arcuate shaped upper portion 27 located at a top
portion 36 of the frame system 14. Each flexible rod member
24, 26 includes first and second linear rod portions 38, 40
which extend downwardly from the arcuate shape upper potion
27.
The first and second linear rod portions 38, 40 are
spaced apart and are generally orthogonal to the support body
18.
The rod length modifier 28 are located to vary the
distance between the top portion 36 of the frame system 14 and
the patient 12. Referring specifically to FIG. 2, if desired,
a third rod length modifier 41 is located at the top portion
36 of the rod. The third rod length modifier 41 allows the
frame to be widened along a horizontal plane (as seen by the
arrows 43).
This is desirable if the bed width does not
permit location of the frame over the patient 12.
[00098] Referring again to FIG. 2 and also specifically now to
FIG.7, each of the flexible rod member 24, 26 includes a
passageway (or a lumen) 42 which extends between first and
second rod connecting ends 44, 46.
The passageways 42 are
sized to slidably receive therein each of the rod length
modifiers 28. If the arcuate shaped upper portion 27 of the
frame system 14 houses a length of fiberglass rod, the
fiberglass rod can also extend at least partially down the
passageway 42 of each of the linear rod portions 38, 40. The
first and second rod length modifiers 28 include a telescoping
member 48 which is slidably mounted in the passageway 42. To
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Docket #: 178-PO1.CA
SPECIFICATION
permit a snug fit, the telescoping member 48 is mounted in the
passageway 42 using an interference fit so that the
telescoping member 48 moves along a restricted path of travel.
The telescoping member 48 includes a lower ring 53 and a plug
55 which prevents the rod from moving or becoming disengaged
when secured in place.
The combination of the telescoping
member 48, the button 49 and the plug 55 create an "anti-
disassembly mechanism".
[00099] One skilled in the art will readily recognize that
many different rod length modifiers are available and can be
use either "off the shelf" or modified for use with the
flexible rod member described herein. Modifications may be
achieved by adding or removing physical elements to the rod
assembly for example, multiple posts for height adjustment. In
the examples illustrated, the rod length modifiers 28 includes
at least one lock member 50. The lock member 50 allows the
caregiver to lock the frame system in place once the desired
rod lengths and therefore the desired living volume are
achieved. In the example shown, the lock member 50 is a button
49 which can be pressed either by hand or during insertion of
the telescoping member 48 into the rod passageway 42 and
engage one or more openings 51 in the telescoping member 48.
[000100] The rod connecting ends 44,46 are used to connect the
flexible rods to the support body 18. In one example, the
connecting ends are connected to an intravenous (IV) stand
using an interference fit. In another example, the flexible
rods are connected directly to the support body frame (the bed
frame 22). Also located between the lock
50 and the
insertion pin 32, which is static, is a flexible piece 29,
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SPECIFICATION
which adds to the flexibility of the lower end of the rods and
makes for easier assembly.
[000101] Referring now to FIGs, 7, 8, 9 and 10, the first and
second flexible rods 24, 26 can include one or more first
hinges 52. If desired, the hinges 52 are operable to permit a
lower portion 54 of each of the flexible rods 24, 26 to
hinegably move away from the patient 12. The hinges 52 may be
located on one side of enclosure to allow the enclosure to be
lifted up on one side only, or the hinges can be used to allow
patient access on one side. In the example shown in FIG. 10,
the lower portion 54 of the flexible rods 24, 26 is shown to
be moveable towards and away from (in dotted lines) the living
volume 13, either in an upstanding configuration to a
orthogonally disposed configuration. The use of hinges 52 may
be useful to provide access to the patient or during collapse
of the enclosure prior to transportation of the enclosure to
the location where needed. The hinge 52, once located in the
desired orientation is locked in place using a locking system
56.
[000102] Still referring to FIG. 10, an external I.V pole
adapter 61 can extend from the bed 18 to securely receive
therein an I.V. pole (not shown). If desired, a swivel joint
63, which can rotate about a swivel axis 65 to align an I.V.
post connector 67 with the exterior or interior of the
isolation housing. Moreover, the use of the swivel joint 63
allows for transportation and collapse of the frame if the
embodiment to be used includes optional attachments for an
I.V. pole.
[000103] As seen in FIG. 1, the first and second spaced apart
flexible rods 24, 26 are moveable relative to each other along
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Docket #: 178-P01.CA
SPECIFICATION
a longitudinal path 58 (as illustrated by the arrow) so as to
accommodate support bodies having different lengths.
[000104]Each flexible rod 24, 26 is made from a material that
is sufficiently flexible to permit forming of the rods into a
desired shape to accommodate the barrier sheet and the support
body.
[000105] As is seen in FIGs. 11, 12, and 13, one problem that
may be encountered in the use of flexible rods 24, 26 and the
barrier sheet 20 is that when assembled, the barrier sheet 20
forms a concave curvature 58 in the middle. The weight of the
barrier sheet 20 may pull the flexible rods 24, 26 inwardly,
thereby increasing the size of the curvature (as seen in the
three rod locations in FIG. 13).
To address this, the
inventors are able to pull outwardly (in the direction of the
arrows as seen in FIG. 12) on the end-flaps 57 and maintain
the rolled take-up on the rods using (1) Velcro strips (or
other fasteners on the flaps 57), or, by (2)friction and/or by
using (3) a tightening rope/cord located inside the sleeves
for cases when either / both end-flaps are open. The cord
inside the sleeves is optional.
Additionally, the barrier
sheet 20 often displays creases 45 which may impede the
visibility of the patient.
An added advantage of
straightening the curvature 58 is the creases 45 are smoothed.
Furthermore, the barrier sheet 20 may have an optional shrink
film portion 59, or indeed the whole sheet may be made from
shrink film, which by its properties helps maintain a tight
fit on the flexible rods.
[000106]Referring back to FIG. 1, the barrier sheet 20 is
connected to the frame system 14, which defines the living
volume 13 of a size sufficient to substantially enclose the
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Docket #: 178-P01.CA
SPECIFICATION
patient 12 and the support body 18 therein. The barrier sheet
20 is shaped for location over the first and second flexible
rod members 24, 26.
[000107]Referring now to FIGs. 14, 15 and 16, the problem of
ensuring a seal around the living volume 13 is vitally
important. The barrier sheet 20 is secured to the rod members
24, 26 using a plurality of sheet connectors 60 such as clip
members 62 or Velcro strips located along the length of each
rod member 24, 26 to permit a caregiver to sealingly connect
the barrier 20 to the rods 24, 26. The clip members 62 extend
around the perimeter of the support body 18 to secure the
barrier sheet 20 to the support body 18. The barrier sheet 20
may also include first and second spaced apart adhesive strips
against which the first and second flexible rod members
adhere. The barrier sheet 20 is also sealed along the side of
the bed 18 by the use of the sheet connectors 60. In the
example shown in FIG. 14, another lock 64 is exemplified in
which the caregiver can twist the lock 64 to either lock or
unlock the rod length modifier 28.
[000108] As best seen in FIGs 15, 16 and 17, there may be
instances, especially when the patient is towards the end of
the isolation period when they may wish to sit up in bed.
Many hospital beds include an upper body portion 66 which can
be articulated upwards at an angle to allow the patient 12 an
additional body position. In this case, the barrier sheet 20
can accommodate the patient by including an upper body
enclosure sheet portion 68 configured to accommodate the
patient's upper body when the patient is permitted to sit up.
The upper body enclosure sheet portion is contiguous with a
main barrier sheet. The upper body enclosure portion 68 has a
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Docket #: 178-P01.CA
SPECIFICATION
sufficient volume to permit the patient's head and upper body
to move between a laying, prone position and an upright or
angled sitting position. Although not illustrated, a similar
design may be used for the lower body.
The lower body
enclosure would be useful should the patient require washing
of the lower extremities, for example
[000109] Referring now to FIGs. 18 and 19, the barrier sheet 20
includes a patient access portion 70 to permit a caregiver
access to the patient. When the caregiver needs access to the
patient, they must exercise extreme care so as not to
contaminate themselves with the infectious agent, or let the
infectious agent escape from the isolation enclosure.
The
patient access portion 70 includes a barrier sheet panel 72
that is contiguous with the barrier sheet 20. The barrier
sheet panel has two opposing sides 74, 76 that is temporarily
sealed to the barrier sheet 20. To open the patient access
portion, the barrier sheet panel 72 is slidable up along the
along the flexible rods 24, 26 to provide a temporary opening
of sufficient size to allow the caregiver access to the
patient, and thereafter to re-seal the temporary opening. The
barrier sheet panel 72 is moved up in an accordion fashion or
as a partial roll.
[000110] As seen in FIGs 2 through 24, there are a number of
contemplated patient access portions 70, which are known to
those skilled in the art, all of which can be temporarily
sealed. One preferred example is shown in FIG. 23, which may
be used in extreme cases of highly infectious diseases. A
separate window 78 made from a deformable material provides
"no touch" access to the patient 12. The material forms a
skin around the caregiver's hands 80 and allows administration
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Docket #: 178-P01.CA
SPECIFICATION
of care without direct patient contact. It is desirable to
have the patient access portion 70 located adjacent the
patient's right-hand side near the patient's head, and also
adjacent the top of the patient's head. This permits the
caregiver to have specific access to the patient's body part
where drug administration can take place or access to the
patient if they are intubated.
[000111] Also, if desired, a pre-formed glove or gloves(not
shown) may be provided in the window 78.
In FIG. 22, a
closabe "slit" can be sealed using Velcro or self-adhesive
tape surface fasteners. Also included with a "slit" could be a
zipper type closure. The zipper would permit the caregiver
easy access and closure through the zippered slit.
[000112] Referring back to FIGs. 18 and 19, the barrier sheet
20 is made from transparent material. The barrier sheet 20
includes an inner surface 82 disposed towards the patient, and
an exterior side surface 84 disposed outwardly towards the
caregiver. For additional protection both to the patient and
the caregiver, the barrier sheet 20 can be coated
substantially across the entire surface area with an
antimicrobial material such as an anti-viral material or an
anti-bacterial material. A person skilled in the art will
readily recognize that there exists transparent materials
currently on the market that have anti-microbial properties
and which could easily be used as an additional layer on the
inner or outer surfaces of the barrier sheet 20.
[000113] One of the main advantages of the isolation enclosure
is its ability to provide quick and easy transportation and
assembly. Referring now to FIGs. 25 to 28, and 28A, the
barrier sheet 20 includes first and second spaced apart
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Docket #: 178-P01.CA
SPECIFICATION
sleeves 86, 88 into which the first and second flexible rod
members 24, 26 are slidably inserted. Once fully deployed,
the barrier sheet 20 drapes substantially over the four sides
of the support body 18 and, in some cases, contacts the ground
so as to completely enclose the patient and the support body.
Another set of hinges 90 can be located between the sleeves
86, 88 to allow collapse of the barrier sheet 20 and the frame
14 for transportation.
[000114]Referring now to FIGs 28 and 28A, the barrier sheet 20
is generally supplied as a two-dimensional pattern 100 for
assembling the isolation enclosure 10. The barrier sheet 20
includes a generally rectangular-shaped central panel 102 and
two end square-shaped panel sheets 104, 106 are each connected
to the respective spaced apart joints 108, 110.If desired, the
barrier sheet 20 includes the strip of shrink film which
permits tightening of the sheet and reduces sagging in the
middle once the isolation housing is erected.
Optional
reinforcement (auxiliary) panels 109 can be connected between
the panel 104, 106, and the central panel 102. Stitching 87
or some other means of securing the sleeves 86, 88 around the
rods so that they can slide therethrough along the illustrated
arrows 91.
[000115] Two spaced apart sleeve attachment portions 86, 88
located on one side of the barrier sheet and shaped to receive
therein respective first and second flexible rods. The sleeve
attachment portions 86, 88 each extend across the rectangular-
shaped central panel 102 for receiving therein the flexible
rods during assembly of the isolation enclosure. The sheet of
transparent material has a generally rectangular-shaped
central panel and first and second spaced apart joints.
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Docket #: 178-P01.CA
SPECIFICATION
[000116] In another barrier sheet example as shown in FIG. 29,
two spaced apart sleeve attachment portions 112, 114 are
located on one side of the sheet 20 and shaped to receive
therein the flexible rods. In this example, two substantially
rhomboidal spaced apart panels 116, 118 extending away from
the rectangular-shaped central panel 120.
The first and
second sleeve attachment portions 112, 114 include an arcuate
top portion 120 and two concave side portions 122, 124
contiguous therewith. The arcuate top portion 120 and the two
concave portions 124 are moustache shaped.
[000117] Referring now to FIGs. 30, 31 and 32, an alternative
embodiment can include the apparatus 200 has an air pump and
fan 202 that is connected to the barrier sheet 20 to
communicate oxygen and carbon dioxide into and out of the
volume around the patient. The air pump and fan 202 can be
located at the patient's foot area or above the patient's
body.
This modification is especially important if the
atmosphere around the patient becomes saturated with a high
concentration of carbon dioxide. In one example, an additional
filter 204, such as a Hepa filter can be incorporated into the
design
Operation of the System
[000118] Using the isolation enclosure described herein is very
straightforward. It begins with delivery of a collapsed unit.
The infected patient is typically located on a bed.
Two
caregivers are employed to grab the two ends of the collapsed
enclosure, either using handles which may be located at either
end panel of the collapsed enclosure or by simply grabbing
both upright portions of the frame.
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Docket #: 178-P01.CA
SPECIFICATION
[000119] Each caregiver will then exert a pulling force on the
end panels to pull apart the enclosure. The flexibility of
the two flexible rods 24, 26 will cause the enclosure to
spring open when released from the shipping container.
Depending on the bed size and/or the size of the patient, the
caregivers can immediately adjust the height of the enclosure
so as to provide a comfortable living volume around the
patient or if the patient or bed is unusually long, the
enclosure can be extended using extension panels. Once the
appropriate sided enclosure if desired, the caregivers then
secure the enclosure to the bend frame or locate it on the
floor.
[000120] If the patient needs attention during isolation, the
patient access portion is used either by quickly sliding the
panel up over the two flexible rods or by opening one of the
other opening designs. After the patient is cared for, the
access opening is then re-sealed to maintain isolation.
[000121] Once the patient is fit to leave isolation, the
enclosure can be taken down, collapsed and either
decontaminated or immediately disposed of using incineration.
Other Embodiments
[000122] From the foregoing description, it will be apparent to
one of ordinary skill in the art that variations and
modifications may be made to the embodiments described herein
to adapt it to various usages and conditions.
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Date Recue/Date Received 2020-08-07
