Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
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PHARMACEUTICAL DISPENSING DEVICE AND METHODS
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to methods and apparatus for
providing access to items to be dispensed, and may find a
particular use in the dispensing of medical supplies. The
invention further relates maintaining an inventory of the
number and type of items dispensed while providing easy and
convenient access to the items.
In large medical facilities, inventories of medical
supplies are held in storage locations which are often far
removed from the patients who use them. To facilitate
delivery of the medical supplies from the storage area to the
patient, a variety of dispensing systems have been proposed.
In one such system, referred to as a "cart exchange" system,
dispensing carts are distributed at remote dispensing stations
in the medical facility and are periodically exchanged with
fully supplied carts. The "used" cart is returned to a
central supply area where inventory decreases of particular
medical supplies are recorded and the cart is restocked to
predetermined "par" levels. These par levels are intended to
ensure constant availability of required medical supplies.
In a similar system, individual carts are used but
are not removed from their remote locations in the medical
facility. Instead, a larger cart holding a variety of medical
supplies is circulated throughout the facility to restock
individual carts to their par levels.
Although these systems are generally effective in
providing medical supplies to remote locations away from the
storage area, they suffer from a number of drawbacks. One
particular drawback is the potential for stock-outs that can
arise if the inventories of the carts are not closely
monitored. Adequate inventory monitoring can be problematic
due to time limitations on the hospital staff. Depletion of
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certain items from the carts can pose serious risks to the
patients in the medical facility.
To ensure that sufficient supplies are maintained in
the carts, overstocking can occur which in turn increases the
cost of the medical facility's inventory system by requiring
more items to be maintained in inventory than are actually
required. Excessive restocking is also demanding on the
hospital staff who must devote more of their time to
monitoring the carts to ensure that sufficient supplies are
available.
Another drawback of the above-described inventory
systems is the lack of security provided for the supplies
maintained on the carts. Since access to the items can
usually be gained without recording user identification
information, medical personal may neglect or forget to record
removal of the accessed supplies which can introduce errors or
inefficiencies into the medical facility's inventory system.
Lack of security can also discourage the return of unused
supplies. Without a record of user access and removal,
medical personnel may often choose to discard the supplies
rather than taking the time to return them.
In yet another drawback, no direct data transfer
from the supply carts to the hospital inventory and billing
systems is provided. This can lead to further inefficiencies
in the inventory system.
For these and other reasons, it would be desirable
to provide a dispensing system allowing easy and convenient
access to the items to be dispensed while also maintaining an
accurate inventory (including both removal and replacement) of
the number and type of items to be dispensed. Such a system
should reduce the possibility of stock outs and provide
accountability by controlling access to the supplies and
allowing easy return of unused items. The system should also =
allow for inventories to be maintained at minimum levels and
should be able to directly supply inventory information to the
medical facility's inventory and billing systems.
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2. Description of the Background Art
U.S. Patent No. 5,263,596 describes a subassembly
for use in a medical dispenser station which dispenses
pharmaceutical items in single quantities from a locked
storage location.
U.S. Patent No. 3,715,148 describes a medicine
dispensing cabinet having a plurality of sliding drawers and a
plurality of dispensing trays.
U.S. Patent No. 3,556,342 describes a medicine
dispensing apparatus for dispensing medicines from a cabinet
and into a hopper.
U.S. Patent No. 5,047,948 describes a medication
dispensing system for dispensing medicines into a receptacle
in the bottom of a medicine cabinet.
U.S. Patent No. 4,962,491 describes a portable
medication dispenser for visually and audibly indicating the
times at which a patient's medications are to be taken.
U.S. Patent No. 5,014,875 describes a medication
dispenser having a housing with a plurality of locked drawers
which are stocked with selected pharmaceutical items. Access
to the items is allowed upon keyboard entry of a predetermined
access code.
U.S. Patent No. 3,917,045 describes a drug
dispensing apparatus for automatically dispensing one or more
individual drug doses to a common collection area as required
by a patient.
U.S. Patent No. 4,019,793 describes a pharmaceutical
dosage distribution apparatus having an enclosure with a door
and a plurality of trays.
U.S. Patent No. 4,267,942 describes a pharmaceutical
storage and dispensing cabinet for dispensing items into a
retrieval tray for removal.
U.S. Patent No. 4,360,125 describes a medication
dispenser which can provide a medication alert signal in
accordance with a desired medication regimen.
U.S. Patent No. 4,473,884 describes a portable
medical dispensing unit for storing pills. The dispensing
unit is programmed with a medication schedule which causes
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visual and audio signals when it is time for medication to be
consumed.
U.S. Patent No. 4,635,053 describes an apparatus for
monitoring and restricting access to individual items which
are provided with a unique identifying code. The codes are
scanned by a microprocessor to identify removal of the item.
U.S. Patent No. 4,695,954 describes a system and
method for dispensing medications prescribed by a doctor. The
system includes a medical dispenser which can read
prescription information from a memory device and make the
medications available to the patient at the prescribed times.
U.S. Patent No. 4,783,740 describes an inventory
management system having a central control unit and a number
of parts terminal units that are disposed at each parts
container.
U.S. Patent No. 4,785,969 describes a medication
dispensing system for controlled programmed dispensing of
medication to a patient and for creating a retrievable patient
medication record.
U.S. Patent No. 4,811,764 describes a medication
dispenser station having rotatable carousels with vertically
open compartments containing individual doses of a medication.
U.S. Patent No. 4,847,764 describes a system for
dispensing medications in a health care institution.
U.S. Patent No. 4,942,275 describes a control panel
face for mounting to a control member.
U.S. Patent No. 4,967,928 describes a medication
cart for dispensing medicines during a nurse's rounds.
U.S. Patent No. 5,055,660 describes a transaction
monitoring and security system for recording data from the
sale of articles.
U.S. Patent No. 5,069,511 describes a pharmaceutical
cart for retaining a plurality of dispensing bins on shelves.
U.S. Patent No. 5,259,668 describes a medication
cart having a base formed of a pair of molded plates
interconnected by rails. The plates have molded grooves and
holes for receiving structural elements of the cart.
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U.S. Patent No. 5,267,174 describes a medication
delivery device having a housing containing separate storage
locations for holding medication dosages away from access by
= the user.
5
= SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The invention provides a dispensing unit having an
enclosure with an interior. A plurality of storage locations
are distributed over a surface of the enclosure. Sensors are
associated with at least some of the individual storage
locations to sense when the storage locations have been
accessed. A multiplicity of receptacles are disposed within
at least some of the storage locations, and sensors are
associated with at least some of the individual receptacles to
sense when an item has been removed (or in some cases
returned) from the receptacles. A processor is disposed on
the enclosure and connected to receive signals from the
storage location-associated sensors and the receptacles-
associated sensors.
In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the
-storage locations comprises a drawer that can be withdrawn
from the interior of the enclosure. The drawer preferably
includes at least one divider to divide the drawer into the
multiplicity of receptacles. In an exemplary aspect of this
embodiment, the storage-location sensors comprise a switch
disposed near each drawer for sensing when a drawer has been
opened. When the drawer is withdrawn from the interior, the
switch sends a signal to the processor indicating that this
drawer has been accessed. In another exemplary aspect, the
receptacle-associated sensors comprise touch-sensitive
buttons. Preferably, the buttons are disposed in a row on the
surface of the enclosure and in an order which corresponds to
the order of receptacles in the drawer.
In one particular aspect, a signal received from a
switch when one of the drawers is opened is used by the
processor to set the row of buttons to correspond to the
receptacles in the accessed drawer. This configuration allows
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one row of buttons to be used with more than one drawer, and
reduces the number of buttons required for the unit.
In another particular aspect, each button is
assigned a unique button identification symbol, e.g., a
number. The identification symbol is disposed in close
proximity to each of the buttons. The same button
identification symbols are also disposed in close proximity to
each of the receptacles. With this configuration, when one of
the drawers is opened and one of the buttons is selected,
removal (or replacement) of an item from the receptacle having
the same identification symbol as the button is recorded.
In yet another particular aspect, each drawer
includes a unique drawer identification symbol that
corresponds to the unique button identification symbols.
Associating the drawers with the buttons in this manner is
advantageous when providing the unit with means for displaying
a list of items held by the unit, means for entering a
selection from the list of the items held in the dispensing
unit into the processor, and a plurality of visual indicators
connected to the processor and in close proximity to the
buttons. With such a configuration, when a selection from the
list of items is entered, the visual indicator in close
proximity to the button having the same identification symbol
as the drawer containing the item is actuated. This allows a
user to easily identify which drawer contains the selected
item. In a further aspect, when the drawer having the item is
accessed, the visual indicator in close proximity to the
button having the same identification symbol as the receptacle
having the item is actuated. This allows for easy
identification of the receptacle having the item.
In another exemplary aspect, the unit is provided
with a horizontal shelf having the buttons disposed thereon. The drawers are
slidably disposed along the shelf and are
generally aligned with the buttons such that each button
corresponds to the closest drawer. Means are provided for
displaying a list of items held by the unit for entering a
selection from the list of the items held in the dispensing
unit into the processor. A plurality of visual indicators
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connected to the processor and in close proximity to the
buttons are provided, with each button corresponding to the
closest visual indicator. With this configuration, entry of a
= selection from the list of names actuates the visual indicator
corresponding to the drawer having the item. This allows for
easy identification of the drawer having the desired item.
Once the drawer having the item is accessed, the visual
indicator corresponding to the button having the same symbol
as the receptacle having the item is actuated. This allows
for easy identification of the receptacle having the item once
the drawer is opened.
In another exemplary embodiment, at least one of the
storage locations comprises a rack having a plurality of pegs.
The pegs are disposed along the rack to define the
receptacles. In an exemplary aspect, the storage-location
sensors comprise a switch disposed near each rack for sensing
the opening of the racks. In another aspect, the receptacle-
associated sensors comprise touch-sensitive buttons.
Preferably, the buttons are disposed in a row on the surface
of the enclosure.
In one particular exemplary aspect, the signal
received from one of the switches when one of the racks is
open is used by the processor to set the row of buttons to
correspond to the pegs in the accessed rack. This
configuration allows a single row of buttons to be used with
more than one rack. Each time a rack is accessed, the buttons
are set to correspond to that particular rack.
In another particular aspect, the buttons correspond
visually with the pegs by a unique button identification
symbol in close proximity in corresponding to each button and
each peg. When a rack is withdrawn and one of the buttons is
selected, removal (or replacement) of an item from the peg
having the same identification symbol as the button is
recorded.
= 35 In yet another particular aspect, the unit further
includes a horizontal shelf with the buttons being disposed
along the shelf. The racks are slidably disposed along the
shelf and generally aligned with the buttons such that each
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button corresponds to the closest rack. Means are provided
for displaying a list of items held by the unit, and means for
entering a selection from the list of the items held in the
dispensing unit into the processor are provided. A plurality
of visual indicators connected to the processor and in close
proximity to the buttons are provided, with each button
corresponding to the closest visual indicator. With this
configuration, entry of a selection from the list of items
actuates the visual indicator corresponding to the rack having
the item. This allows for easy visual identification of the
rack having the desired item. When the rack having the item
has been accessed, the visual indicator corresponding to the
button having the same identification symbol as the peg having
the item is actuated. This provides for easy visual
identification of the peg having the desired item once the
rack has been withdrawn. As each item is withdrawn, the
associated button is pushed once to record removal.
In still another aspect, the unit further includes
means for selectively preventing access to the storage
locations. Means are also provided for opening the preventing
means to permit access to a desired receptacle in response to
input of patient and user identification information into the
processor. In one aspect, the storage locations comprise a
plurality of racks, and withdrawal of one of the racks causes
the preventing means to block access to all remaining racks.
In another aspect, the storage locations comprise a plurality
of drawers, and withdrawal of one of the drawers causes the
preventing means to block access to all remaining drawers.
In another particular aspect, the interior is
accessible through a doorway, and means are provided across
the doorway for selectively blocking access to the storage
locations while permitting access to the receptacle-associated
sensors at all times. Means for opening the blocking means
are provided to permit access to a desired receptacle selected
from the plurality of receptacles in response to actuation of
the receptacle-associated sensor is provided.
The invention further provides a dispensing unit
comprising an enclosure having an interior. A plurality of
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pull-out compartments on the enclosure are provided with at
least some of the compartments being provided with an array of
receptacles. A sensor is associated with and in close
proximity to each of the receptacles for sensing when an item
has been removed from one of the receptacles. A processor is
disposed on the enclosure and connected to receive signals
from the sensors. In a preferred aspect, the compartments
comprise drawers having dividers to form the receptacles, and
the sensors comprise touch-sensitive buttons disposed on the
drawers.
In one particular aspect, the dividers are
adjustable so that the number and size of the receptacles can
be varied. Sensor covers are provided to prevent access to
selected sensors based on the adjustment of the dividers so
that each receptacle will have only one accessible button.
In a particular preferred aspect, a visual indicator
is disposed in close proximity to each sensor. In another
aspect, means are provided for displaying a list of items held
in the unit and for entering a selection from the list of the
items held in the dispensing unit into the processor. With
this configuration, entry of a selection from the list of
items actuates the visual indicator in close proximity to the
receptacle having the selected item. This allows for
convenient identification of a particular receptacle having
the item.
In another particular aspect, a cover is provided
for each of the receptacles. The covers are preferably
connected to the dividers by hinges so that the receptacles
can be accessed by lifting an edge of the covers. In another
aspect, the covers are preferably substantially transparent to
allow visual access to the receptacles. Sensing means are
provided for sensing when the covers have been displaced. In
one aspect, the sensing means comprises an electromagnetic
sensor or an optical sensor. When one of the covers is
lifted, a signal is sent to the processor to produce a record
of the access. This information can then be used to determine
which users have been accessing the receptacles.
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In another aspect, locks are provided for locking
the cover to the receptacles to prevent access to the
receptacles. The locks are in communication with the
processor which provides signals to lock or unlock the covers.
5 Preferably, the processor sends a signal to unlock one of the
covers after both user, patient, and item identification
information have been entered into the processor.
In still another particular aspect, the buttons are
disposed beneath the covers and an aperture is disposed in
10 each of the covers with the aperture being aligned with the
button. With this configuration, the buttons can be accessed
through the apertures while the covers are closed. Once a
button has been actuated, the cover is unlocked to allow
access to that particular receptacle. This configuration
provides security to the dispensing unit by ensuring that
access to a particular receptacle will not be obtained until
the associated button has been selected to record removal of
an item.
In another aspect of the dispensing unit, at least
some of the compartments comprise racks with the receptacles
being disposed along pegs on the racks. The sensors are
disposed along the racks and near each peg. In one particular
embodiment, the sensors are disposed on the pegs for sensing
when an item has been removed from the associated peg. This
embodiment allows an item to be removed from a peg and to have
the removal automatically recorded. In another embodiment,
the sensors comprise touch-sensitive buttons. With this
embodiment, once an item has been removed (or replaced) from
the peg, the associated button is touched to record removal of
the item.
In a preferable aspect, a visual indicator in close
proximity to each button is provided. Means are provided for
displaying a list of items held by the unit and for entering a
selection from the list of the items held in the dispensing
unit into the processor. Entry of a selection from the list
of the items actuates the visual indicator in close proximity
to the button having the selected item. This allows for easy
visual identification of the peg having the desired item.
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In yet another aspect, the sensor is an optical
sensor disposed along a side of the drawer. When a user's
hand is inserted into the drawer, the optical sensor detects
that one of the receptacles has been accessed.
The invention provides a method for recording
inventory information related to removal and addition of items
from an enclosure. According to the method, a first sensor on
the enclosure is actuated to produce a first signal associated
with the location of a receptacle. A second sensor on the
enclosure is actuated to produce a second signal associated
with the location of the receptacle. An item is transferred
to or from the receptacle, and the transfer is recorded based
on an address of the location which is based at least in part
on the first and second signals.
In an exemplary aspect, the first sensor is actuated
by withdrawing a drawer or rack holding the item at least
partially from the enclosure or by touching a button
associated with the drawer or rack holding the item. In
another aspect, the second sensor is actuated by touching a
button corresponding to the location of the item on the drawer
or rack or by removing the item.
In another aspect, the item to be removed or added
is selected from a list of items, and selection of the item
from the list actuates a visual indicator in close proximity
to the drawer or rack having the item. This indicates which
drawer or rack has the item. In another aspect, a visual
indicator in close proximity to the button which
corresponds to the location of the item in the drawer or on
the rack is actuated after the drawer or rack has been
withdrawn. This indicates the location of the item in the
drawer or on the rack.
In yet another aspect, a unique button
identification symbol is provided for each button. The
symbols are disposed in close proximity to each button and
also near each item location. The button is actuated after
visually locating both the button identification symbol near
the item to be dispensed and the button having the same
identification symbol.
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In still another aspect, access to the items is
prevented until patient identification information has been
entered into the dispensing unit.
The invention provides a method for recording
inventory information related to removal and addition of items
from an enclosure having an array of receptacles disposed in a
holding apparatus. According to the method, the holding
apparatus is at least partially withdrawn from the enclosure
to gain access to the items. An item to be removed or added
is visually located and is then removed or added. A sensor in
close proximity and corresponding to the receptacle having the
item is actuated to record removal or addition of the item,
preferably by touching a touch-sensitive button.
In one particular aspect, access to one of the
receptacles is sensed (independently of sensing the addition
or removal of an item) and a record of the access is produced.
The record of receptacle access can then be compared with the
record of item removal, and the record of the item removal can
then be updated based on the record of receptacle access. In
still another aspect, access to the receptacles is prevented
until both user and patient identification information have
been recorded. In another aspect, access to the receptacles
is prevented until actuation of one of the sensors. In
another aspect, access to a selected number of the receptacles
is prevented based on the user identification information.
This provides heightened security by ensuring that only
selected individuals can gain access to particular items.
The invention provides an exemplary method for
dispensing items from a dispensing unit so that a nurse or
other user will be afforded access only to items in the
dispensing unit for which the nurse is authorized to access.
The dispensing unit preferably includes a plurality of
retractable drawers, with at least some of the drawers having a plurality
receptacles for holding the items. According to
the method, nurse and item identification information are entered into the
dispensing unit. Optionally, patient
identification information may also be input or may be
selected from a list of patients stored in the dispensing
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unit. The nurse identification information is then compared
with an access list to determine which of the drawers the
nurse may be given access. If the nurse may be afforded
access to drawers having the requested items, a first one of
the drawers is unlocked. All other drawers will preferably
remain locked. Optionally, a drawer visual indicator will be
actuated to assist the nurse in locating the unlocked drawer.
The unlocked drawer is then retracted to expose the
receptacles. A receptacle visual indicator adjacent one of
the receptacles having a requested item is actuated to assist
the nurse in locating the requested item. Once the item is
located, the item is removed from the receptacle. Since the
item identification'information was previously input into the
dispensing unit, the dispensing unit will have a record of the
removed item. Optionally, quantity identification information
may also be input into the dispensing unit prior to item
removal to produce a record of the number of items removed.
The lid will preferably be locked until user and item
identification information are entered. Then, upon actuation
of the adjacent visual indicator, the lid will unlock. After
item (or items) is taken from the first receptacle, a visual
indicator adjacent another receptacle will be lighted if there
are more items to be removed from the retracted drawer. If
there are no more items to be dispensed from the retracted
drawer, no visual indicators will be actuated and the drawer
may be closed. Preferably, the drawer will lock when closed.
If there are items to be removed from another drawer, that
drawer will unlock and a visual indicator adjacent the next
receptacle having an item to be removed will be actuated.
This process is repeated until all items from the initially
entered item identification information have been dispensed.
In some cases, a single receptacle will not have a
sufficient inventory of items (e.g. the receptacle may be too
small to hold a large number of items, or the receptacle may
not be sufficiently stocked). In such a case, other
receptacles may be filled with items of the same type (i.e.
the drawer will have multiple bins which are each filled with
multiple items of the same type). When a nurse has emptied
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one of the receptacles, a visual indicator adjacent another
receptacle having the same type of item will be actuated. In
this way, a pre-entered request for items of the same type may
be easily filled even if a single receptacle does not have a
sufficient inventory to fill the request. Preferably, the
visual indicator adjacent the second receptacle will not be
actuated until a lid over the first receptacle is lifted and a
corresponding item button is touched or the lifting of the lid
is sensed.
In one aspect, the drawer will be configured to have
heightened security for the items held therein, and access
will be allowed to only the receptacle (or receptacles) in the
retracted drawer having the requested item (or items). In the
event that access to another receptacle is attempted, an alarm
will be produced.
In another aspect, access may be afforded to any
receptacle of a retracted drawer. However, if a receptacle is
accessed for which an adjacent visual indicator is not
actuated, an alarm will be produced. Alternatively, instead
of producing an alarm, the nurse can optionally be prompted to
enter item identification information into the dispensing unit
for additional items that were not originally selected.
In another aspect of the method, the removing step
comprises at least partially removing a lid covering the
receptacle and sensing removal of the lid. Since item
identification information has been pre-entered into the
dispensing unit, the sensing of lid removal may then be used
to produce a record of item removal, i.e. the sensing of lid
removal will serve to confirm that the pre-selected item (or
items) has actually been removed. As a reminder to close the
lid to prevent further access, an alarm will be produced if
the lid is not closed following removal of the item. In yet
another aspect, witness identification information will be
required to be entered into the dispensing units prior to
allowing access to certain drawers having items with
restricted access. If no lid is provided, each receptacle may
alternatively be provided with an item button which may be
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touched (usually only once) to confirm item removal and the
associated quantity.
In still a further aspect, any emptied receptacles
= will periodically be restocked. For the drawer with
5 heightened security, access to only one receptacle at a time
will be allowed as the receptacles are refilled.
Alternatively, the invention provides for the rapid refilling
of the emptied receptacles by providing simultaneous access to
all of the receptacles in the drawer. In another aspect of
10 the restocking procedure, a list of items and associated
quantities that are to be restocked may be entered into the
dispensing unit prior to restocking. Usually, restock
quantities are input electronically into the dispensing unit
from a central computer which is in communication with various
15 dispensing units located within the health care facility and
maintains an inventory of items held in each dispensing unit.
Further, the drawer may optionally be provided with a touch-
sensitive buttons adjacent each receptacle so that the restock
person may confirm that the receptacle has been restocked with
items corresponding to the pre-entered information. If the
restock person wishes to restock an item or a quantity that is
different from the pre-entered information, such information
may be manually entered into the dispensing unit during the
restocking process.
The invention further provides a method for
dispensing items from a dispensing unit having a plurality of
storage locations, with at least some of the storage locations
having a plurality receptacles for holding the items. The
method is particularly well suited for dispensing items which
do not need to be stored under heightened security. According
to the method, nurse identification information, item
identification information, and item quantity information are
entered into the dispensing unit. A receptacle visual
indicator which is adjacent one of the receptacles having an
item (or items) from the entered item identification
information is then actuated to assist the nurse in locating
the item. A touch-sensitive button adjacent the receptacle
having the actuated visual indicator is touched to confirm
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access to that receptacle. Touching of the button may also
serve to confirm the pre-entered quantity has been removed.
The item is then removed from the receptacle adjacent the
actuated visual indicator.
After the item (or items) has been removed from the
first receptacle, a second receptacle visual indicator adjacent a second
receptacle having another item from the
entered item identification information will be actuated. In
this way, the nurse will be directed to the next receptacle so
that items may continue to be dispensed. In one aspect of the
method, an alarm is produced if a touch-sensitive button is
pushed for a receptacle other than the receptacle having the
actuated visual indicator.
The invention provides a method for returning a
previously dispensed item to a dispensing unit. Such a method
is provided to maintain an accounting of items that are
dispensed and for some reason are not delivered to the patient
(e.g. if the wrong item was dispensed or if the item was
contaminated after removal). According to the method, nurse
(and preferably also patient) identification information are
entered into the dispensing unit. Item identification
information for the item to be returned is also entered into
the dispensing unit. The entered item identification
information is then compared with a list of items requiring
the presence of a witness when returning the item. If a
witness is required, a request for witness identification
information to be entered into the dispensing unit is
provided. The item is then placed into the dispensing unit.
In one particular aspect, a request for an
explanation of why the item is being returned is produced. In
another aspect, a request for the quantity of the item being
returned is produced. In still a further aspect, the placing
step comprises inserting the item into a receptacle having a
one-way door. In a preferable aspect, a record of returned
items will be produced. Periodically, the returned items will
be removed from the dispensing unit and compared to the record
of returned items to determine any discrepancies between the
record of returned items and the items actually returned.
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17
The invention provides a method for recording
inventory information related to removal and addition of items
to or from an enclosure having at least one retractable
drawer. The drawer includes a plurality of receptacles which
are sized to each hold only a single item. According to the
method, nurse and item identification information are entered
into the dispensing unit. The nurse identification
information is compared with an access list to determine
whether the nurse may be given access to the drawer. if
access may be afforded, the drawer is at least partially
retracted from the enclosure to gain access to at least one of
the receptacles. A lid from the accessed receptacle is then
at least partially removed and its removal is sensed. The
item is then withdrawn from the receptacle and a record of the
item's removal is produced.
In one aspect, the record is produced at least in
part by sensing removal of the lid. Alternatively, the record
may be produced by touching an item button in close proximity
to the receptacle of the withdrawn item. In this way, a
record of the sensed lid removal may be compared with the
record of item removal. In a further aspect, the step of
removing the lid comprises sliding the lid from the receptacle
to provide access to the item. Alternatively, the lid may be
lifted from the receptacle to provide access to the item. In
still a further aspect, items are periodically restocked into
emptied receptacles. In a preferable aspect, the restocking
step comprises simultaneously removing all lids from the
drawer to gain access to the receptacles.
The invention provides an exemplary dispensing unit,
particularly useful in the dispensing of pharmaceutical items
in single unit doses. The dispensing unit includes an
enclosure having an interior and at least one drawer. A
processor is provided for receiving user and item
identification information. The drawer includes a plurality
of receptacles, with each receptacle being sized to hold a
single item. A visual indicator is provided for each
receptacle (or for an array of the receptacles), with the
visual indicators being in close proximity and corresponding
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18
to each receptacle or array of receptacles. A blocking means
is provided for the drawer and for each receptacle. Such
blocking means are provided for selectively preventing access
to the drawer and to each of the receptacles. The processor
is in communication with the drawer and the receptacle
blocking means and is configured to send a signal to unlock
the drawer or receptacle blocking means based on the user
and/or item identification information. In this way, the user
may be afforded access to selected drawers and receptacles
based on the entered identification information. For example,
the processor can be employed to limit access to selected
drawers based on the user identification information.
Further, access to selected receptacles within the drawers can
be limited to those having items from the entered item
identification information. The dispensing unit further
includes a sensing means for sensing access to the
receptacles.
The processor is preferably in communication with
the sensing means so that a record of removal may be recorded
each time a lid is removed. Optionally, a touch sensitive
button may be provided for each receptacle so that recordation
may occur by touching the button. In some cases, the touch-
sensitive button and the visual indicator may be incorporated
into a single button.
In one preferable aspect, the receptacle blocking
means comprises a plurality of lids, with a separate lid being
disposed over each receptacle. In one aspect, at least some
of the lids are transparent. To provide additional security
to the items in the drawers, at least some of the lids may be
opaque to prevent visual access to the items. In one
particular aspect, the sensing means comprises a sensor
associated with each lid for detecting at least partial
removal of each lid from its associated receptacle. With such
a configuration, transfer of an item may be recorded by the
associated touch-sensitive button while access to each
receptacle is recorded upon removal of the lid. In this way,
the removal record and the access record may later be compared
to determine any discrepancies.
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19
In one particular aspect, the receptacles comprise
bins having lids that are slidably held over each of the
receptacles. Alternatively, the lids may be attached over
each of the receptacles by a hinge. In another aspect, the
receptacle comprises a groove formed in a rotatable cylinder.
The cylinder is covered by a lid and preferably includes a
plurality of grooves so that more than one item may be held
beneath a single lid. The cylinder may then be rotated each
time the lid is opened so that a single item is available for
removal upon each request.
In another aspect, the sensor comprises an
electrical circuit, and the lid includes an electrically
conductive element for closing the circuit upon removal of the
lid. Alternatively, the sensor comprises a photodetector and
a light source. In still a further aspect, at least one
drawer includes a waste compartment for receiving returned
items. The waste compartment preferably includes a one-way
door for inserting the items to be returned. In yet a further
aspect, a touch sensitive button disposed on the drawer for
requesting access to the drawer.
The invention provides an exemplary drawer for a
dispensing unit. The drawer is particularly useful in holding
single doses of pharmaceutical items and includes a plurality
of receptacles, with each receptacle being sized to hold a
single item. A plurality of lids are provided for covering at
least some of the receptacles. A plurality of touch-sensitive
item buttons are provided, with the item buttons being in
close proximity to and corresponding to selected ones of the
receptacles. A means are provided for simultaneously removing
all of the lids to gain access to the receptacles. In a
preferable aspect, the drawer further includes a touch-
sensitive drawer button for requesting access to the drawer.
CA 02239546 2006-11-17
19a
Various embodi.ments of this invention provide a
dispensing unit comprising: an enclosure having an interior;
a plurality of storage locations distributed over a surface
of the enclosure; actuators associated with at least some of
the storage locations; a multiplicity of receptacles disposed
within at least some of the storage locations; actuators
associated with at least some of the receptacles; and a
processor disposed on the enclosure and connected to receive
signals from the storage location-associated actuators and
the receptacle-associated actuators, wherein the processor
includes a record of the number and type of items held in the
receptacles; wherein access to one of the storage locations
sends a signal from the storage-associated actuator to the
processor, the processor using the signal to set the
receptacle-associated actuators to correspond to the
receptacles in the accessed storage location, and wherein
removal of an item from one of the receptacles and actuation
of the corresponding receptacle-associated actuator updates
the record of items held in the receptacle.
Other embodiments of this invention provide a
dispensing unit comprising: an enclosure having an interior;
a plurality of pull-out compartments on the enclosure,
wherein at least some of the compartments include an array of
receptacles; an actuator adjacent to and associated with each
of the recieptacles, the actuators being disposed in the
compartments, wherein transfer of an item to or from each
receptacle is recorded by actuation of the sensor; a
processor disposed on the enclosure and connected to receive
signals from the actuators; a compartment-associated visual
indicator on each pull-out compartment; a receptacle-
associated visual indicator in close proximity and
corresponding to each receptacle, the receptacle-associated
visual indicators being separate from the compartment
CA 02239546 2006-11-17
19b
associated receptacles and being held within the enclosure
when the pull-out compartment is an a closed position; means
for displaying a list of items held by the unit; means for
entering a selection from the list of the items held in the
dispensing unit into the processor; and wherein entry of a
selection from the list of items actuates the compartment-
associated visual indica.tor on the compartment having the
item and the receptacle-associated visual indicator in close
proximity to the receptacle having the selected item.
Other embodiments of this invention provide a
dispensing unit comprising: an enclosure having an interior;
a plurality of storage locations distributed over a surface
of the enclosure; actuators associated with at least some of
the individual storage locations; a multiplicity of
receptacles disposed within at least some of the storage
locations; actuators associated with at least some of the
individual receptacles; a processor disposed on the enclosure
and connected to receive signals from the storage location-
associated actuators and the receptacle-associated actuators;
means for displaying a 1.ist of items held by the unit; means
for entering a selectior.i from the list of the items held in
the dispensing unit into the processor; and a plurality of
visual indicators on the enclosure which are connected to the
processor, wherein each visual indicator is associated with a
unique identification symbol; wherein each storage location
is marked with a unique identification symbol corresponding
to at least some of the visual indicator-associated
identification symbols, and wherein each receptacle is marked
with a unique identification symbol corresponding to at least
some of the visual indicator-associated identification
symbols; wherein entry of a selection from the list of items
actuates the visual indicator associated with the same
identification symbol as the storage location containing the
CA 02239546 2006-11-17
19c
item, and wherein access to the storage location having the
item actuates the visual, indicator having the same
identification symbol as the receptacle having the item,
Other embodiments of this invention provide a
dispensing unit comprising: an enclosure having an interior;
a plurality of pull-out compartments on the enclosure,
wherein at least some of the compartments include an array of
receptacles; an actuator associated with and in close
proximity to each of the receptacles; a processor disposed on
the enclosure and connected to receive signals from the
actuators; wherein at least some of the compartments comprise
drawers having fixed dividers and adjustable dividers to form
the receptacles, whereiri the actuators comprise touch-
sensitive buttons disposed along the fixed dividers so that
each receptacle has at least one button, wherein at least
some of the receptacles have more than one touch-sensitive
button bas(=d on placemerit of the adjustable dividers, and
wherein the unit further comprises actuator covers which are
disposed over some of the actuators so that each receptacle
has only one uncovered actuator.
Other embodiments of this invention provide a
method for recording inventory information related to removal
and addition of medical or pharmaceutical items from a
location within a dispensing unit defining an enclosure, said
enclosure including a pr_ocessor having a record of number and
type of the items stored in the enclosure based on their
location in the enclosure, said method comprising: accessing
the enclosure and sensing access with a first actuator on the
enclosure to produce a first signal associated with the
location of a receptacle, wherein the first actuator senses
access by withdrawing a drawer or a rack holding the item at
least partially from the enclosure; accessing a location on
the drawer or rack holding the item; sensing access of the
CA 02239546 2006-11-17
19d
receptacle with a seconcl actuator on the enclosure to produce
a second signal associated with the location of the
receptacle; transferrincr an item from or to the receptacle;
and recording the transf:er in the processor based on an
address of the location based at least in part on the first
and second signals.
Other embodiments of this invention provide a
method for recording inventory information related to removal
and addition of items tc> or from a dispensing unit having
arrays of _receptacles disposed in a plurality of holding
apparatus, with each array being disposed in a separate
holding apparatus, the nlethod comprising: inputting item
identification informati_on into the dispensing unit to select
an item to be transferred; actuating a first visual indicator
on the holding apparatus having the selected item and a
second visual indicator adjacent the receptacle having the
selected item; at least partially withdrawing the holding
apparatus having the actuated first visual indicator;
visually locating the actuated second visual indicator on the
withdrawn holding apparatus to locate the selected item;
transferring the selected item to or from the receptacle; and
actuating a touch-sensitive button in close proximity and
corresponding to the receptacle having the item to record the
removal or the addition of the item.
Other embodiments of this invention provide a
method for recording inventory information related to removal
and addition of items from an enclosure having an array of
receptacles disposed in a holding apparatus, the method
comprising: at least partially withdrawing the holding
apparatus from the enclosure; visually locating the item to
be removed or added; removing the item from the receptacle or
placing the item into the receptacle; sensing when the
receptacle has been accessed and producing a record of the
CA 02239546 2006-11-17
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access; providing an actuator in close proximity and
corresponding to the receptacle having the item, wherein
touching the actuator records transfer of the item; comparing
the record of receptacle access with the record of item
transfer to determine if: a discrepancy exists between the
record of receptacle access and the record of item transfer;
preventing access to the receptacles until user and patient
identification information have been recorded; and preventing
access to a selected number of the receptacles based on the
user identification information.
Other embodiments of this invention provide a
method for dispensing pharmaceutical and medical supply items
from a dispensing unit comprising a cabinet having a
processor and a plurality of retractable drawers, with at
least some of the drawers having a plurality of receptacles
for holding the items and with at least some of the drawers
having loc:kable lids for at least some of the receptacles in
the drawer, the method comprising: entering user
identification information into the processor to identify a
user that is requesting access to the pharmaceutical or
medical supply items held in the dispensing unit; entering
pharmaceutical or medical supply item identification
information into the processor, the pharmaceutical or medical
supply itei:n identification information identifying specific
pharmaceutical or medical supply items that the user requests
to remove from the dispensing unit; comparing the user
identification information with an access list having
informatio:n as to which of the requested pharmaceutical or
medical supply items that the user may be given access based
on the previously entered user identification information to
determine one or more of the drawers to which the user may be
given access; unlocking one of the drawers having one of the
requested pharmaceutical or medical supply items when the
CA 02239546 2006-11-17
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access list indicates that the user may have access to the
requested pharmaceutical or medical supply item in that
drawer; retracting the unlocked drawer; actuating a
receptacle visual indicator adjacent one of the receptacles
in the retracted drawer having the requested pharmaceutical
or medical supply item; unlocking the lid adjacent the
actuated visual indicator when the retracted drawer includes
at least some lockable lids to allow access to the receptacle
adjacent the actuated visual indicator while preventing
access to the other receptacles having lockable lids; and
removing the requested pharmaceutical or medical supply item
from the receptacle adjacent the actuated visual indicator.
Other embodiments of this invention provide a
method for dispensing pharmaceutical or medical supply items
from a dispensing unit comprising a cabinet having a
processor and a plurality of retractable drawers, with at
least some of the retractable drawers having a plurality of
receptacles for holding the items and with at least some of
the receptacles including lids which cover the receptacles,
the method comprising: entering user identification
information into the processor to identify a user that is
requesting access to the pharmaceutical or medical supply
items held in the dispensing unit; entering pharmaceutical or
medical supply item identification information into the
processor, the pharmaceutical or medical supply item
identification information identifying specific types of
pharmaceutical or medical supply items that the user requests
to remove from the dispensing unit; entering the quantity of
each type of pharmaceutical or medical supply item into the
processor that the user wishes to remove from the dispensing
unit; actuating a receptacle visual indicator adjacent one of
the receptacles having one of the requested types of
pharmaceutical or medical supply items if the drawer has
CA 02239546 2006-11-17
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multiple receptacles; manually moving the lid covering the
receptacle adjacent the actuated visual indicator and sensing
movement o:E the lid to produce a record that access to the
receptacle was attempted; and removing the previously entered
quantity of the requested pharmaceutical or medical supply
item from the receptacle adjacent the actuated visual
indicator.
Other embodiments of this invention provide a
method for dispensing medical supply or pharmaceutical items,
the method comprising: providing a dispensing unit
comprising a processor and a cabinet having at least one
lockable door and a plurality of shelves or drawers behind
the door having storage locations for holding pharmaceutical
or medical supply items, the cabinet further including a
visual indicator and a touch button located adjacent each of
the storage locations and being in communication with the
processor; entering user_ identification information into the
processor to identify a user that is requesting access to one
of the pharmaceutical or medical supply items held in the
dispensing unit; entering pharmaceutical or medical supply
item identification information into the processor to
identify at least one pharmaceutical or medical supply item
that the user requests to remove from the dispensing unit;
sending a signal from the processor to unlock the door if the
processor determines from the user identification information
that the user may have access to the requested pharmaceutical
or medical supply item; actuating the visual indicator
adjacent the storage location on the shelf or in the drawer
having the requested item; removing the requested item from
the storage location; and touching the touch button adjacent
the storage location having the requested item to send a
signal to the processor confirming the removal of the item.
CA 02239546 2006-11-17
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Other embodiments of this invention provide a
method for dispensing medical supply or pharmaceutical items,
the method comprising: providing a dispensing unit
comprising a processor and a cabinet having a plurality of
drawers which are lockable within the cabinet by a locking
mechanism, wherein the drawers include a plurality of bins
for holding the pharmaceutical or medical supply items, with
at least some of the biris having lids equipped with a sensor
that communicates with the processor to indicate when the lid
is lifted, and wherein the processor includes a record of the
items held within each drawer and which items may be accessed
by specific users or user types; entering user identification
information into the processor to identify a user that is
requesting access to one of the pharmaceutical or medical
supply items held in the dispensing unit; determining with
the processor which drawer or drawers may be unlocked for
access by the user by comparing the user identification
information with the record of which items may be accessed by
specific users; sending a signal from the processor to unlock
at least one of the drawers to which the user may have
access; locating a desired pharmaceutical or medical supply
item in a bin of the unlocked drawer; lifting the lid of bin
having the desired pharmaceutical or medical supply item;
removing the desired pharmaceutical or medical supply item
from the bin, wherein lifting of the lid sends a signal to
the processor to confirin removal of the desired
pharmaceutical or medical supply item.
Other embodiments of this invention provide a
method for dispensing pharmaceutical or medical supply items
from a dispensing unit comprising a cabinet having a
processor and a plurality of retractable drawers, with at
least some of the drawers having a plurality of receptacles
for holding items and with at least some of the drawers
CA 02239546 2006-11-17
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having lockable lids for at least some of the receptacles,
the method comprising: entering user identification
information into the processor to identify a user that is
requesting access to the pharmaceutical or medical supply
items held in the dispensing unit; entering pharmaceutical or
medical supply item identification information into the
processor, the pharmaceutical or medical supply item
identification information identifying specific
pharmaceut:Lcal or medical supply items that the user requests
to remove from the dispensing unit; comparing the user
identification information with an access list having
information as to which of the requested pharmaceutical or
medical supply items that the user may be given access based
on the previously entered user identification information to
determine one or more of: the drawers to which the user may be
given access; unlocking one of the drawers having one of the
requested pharmaceutical or medical supply items when the
access list indicates that the user may have access to the
drawer having the requested pharmaceutical or medical supply
item; retracting the unlocked drawer; unlocking the lid of
the receptacle having the requested item when the retracted
drawer contains at least some lockable lids to allow access
to the requested item while preventing access to other
receptacles having lockable lids; and removing the requested
pharmaceutical or medical supply item from the receptacle
having the unlocked lidõ
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Fig. 1 illustrates a dispensing unit having a
plurality of touch-sens_Ltive buttons and corresponding visual
indicators for recording inventor information.
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Fig. 2 illustrates a dispensing unit having a row of
touch-sensitive buttons with corresponding visual indicators
which correspond to a plurality of pull-out drawers below the
row of buttons according to the present invention.
5 Fig. 3 illustrates a portion of a dispensing unit
having a plurality of pull-out racks, with each rack being
provided with a plurality of pegs for holding an inventory of
items according to the present invention.
Fig. 3A is a detailed view of one of the pegs of
10 Fig. 3 and further showing a sensor associated with the peg
for sensing removal of an item from the peg according to the
present invention.
Fig. 3B is an alternative embodiment of the
dispensing unit of Fig. 3 showing a door that is provided with
15 an aperture to allow access to the touch-sensitive buttons and
visual indicators when the door is closed.
Fig. 3C is a further alternative embodiment of
Fig. 3 showing the touch-sensitive buttons and visual
indicators disposed along the racks according to the present
20 invention.
Fig. 4 illustrates a portion of a dispensing unit
having a row of touch-sensitive buttons and visual indicators,
and a plurality of drawers disposed below the buttons with at
least some of the drawers having a plurality of receptacles
according to the present invention.
Fig. 5 illustrates a portion of a dispensing unit
having a row of touch-sensitive buttons and visual indicators,
and a plurality of bins disposed above the buttons on a shelf,
with at least some of the bins having a plurality of
receptacles.
Fig. 6 illustrates a portion of a dispensing unit
having a pull-out drawer with a plurality of receptacles
therein, with each receptacle being provided with a touch-
sensitive button and visual indicators.
Fig. 7 illustrates an alternative embodiment of
Fig. 6 showing a plurality of covers for each of the
receptacles.
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21
Fig. 8 is an alternative embodiment of the drawer of
Fig. 7 showing an aperture in the cover to allow access to the
touch-sensitive button and observation of the associated
visual indicator when the cover is closed.
Fig. 9 illustrates another alternative embodiment of
the drawer of Fig. 6 showing a plurality of optical sensors
disposed within the drawer for sensing access to the
receptacles.
Fig. 10 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a
dispensing unit particularly useful in dispensing
pharmaceutical items according to the present invention.
Fig. 10A is a flowchart of an exemplary method for
dispensing pharmaceutical items from the dispensing unit of
Fig. 10 according to the present invention.
Figs. 10B-10D are flowcharts of alternative methods
for dispensing pharmaceutical items from the dispensing unit
of Fig. 10 according to the present invention.
Fig. 11 is an exploded perspective view of an
exemplary bin for holding pharmaceutical items according to
the present invention.
Fig. 12 is a side view of the bin of Fig. 11 showing
operation of a sensor used to detect access to the bin.
Fig. 13 is a perspective view of an alternative lid
and sensor for a pharmaceutical bin according to the present
invention.
Fig. 14 is a more detailed view of the sensor of
Fig. 13.
Fig. 15 is a perspective view of an alternative bin
arrangement according to the present invention.
Figs. 16 and 17 illustrate operation of a sensor
that is used to detect access to the bin of Fig. 15.
Fig. 18 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a
drawer for the dispensing unit of Fig. 10 having a wastage
container for receiving wasted items according to the present
invention.
Fig. 18A is a flowchart of an exemplary method for
wasting previously dispensed items according to the present
invention.
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22
Fig. 19 illustrates a further alternative embodiment
of a drawer for the dispensing unit of Fig. 10 having a
plurality of receptacles for holding single doses of
pharmaceutical items according to the present invention.
Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the drawer of
Fig. 19.
Figs. 21 and 22 illustrate an exemplary method for
removing items from the drawer of Fig. 19.
Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a lid of the
drawer of the Fig. 19 having an optical sensor according to
the present invention.
Fig. 24 is a perspective view of an alternative
sensor for the lids of the drawer of Fig. 19.
Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional side view of the sensor
of Fig. 24.
Fig. 26 is a perspective view of a further
alternative embodiment for the lids and sensors of the drawer
of Fig. 19 according to the present invention.
Fig. 27 is a perspective view of the drawer of Fig.
19 having the cover lifted to simultaneously expose all the
receptacles for restocking according to the present invention.
Fig. 28 is a perspective view of an alternative
drawer for the dispensing unit of Fig. 10.
Fig. 29 illustrates an exemplary method for gaining
access to a bin of the drawer of Fig. 28.
Figs. 30 and 31 are side views of a lid and sensor
for the drawer of Fig. 28.
Fig. 32 is a perspective view of a further
alternative embodiment of a drawer for the dispensing unit of
Fig. 10 according to the present invention.
Figs. 33-36 illustrate an exemplary method for
gaining access to the receptacles of the drawer of Fig. 32.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS
The invention provides improved methods and
apparatus for adding and removing items to or from a
dispensing unit and for maintaining an inventory of the items.
The methods and apparatus of the invention are particularly
CA 02239546 2006-11-17
23
useful with the dispensing unit as described generally in
international application WO 95/03587.
Such a unit allows a user
to visually locate an item to be removed and to record removal
of the item by pressing a touch-sensitive button in close
proximity to the storage location of the item. A similar
procedure is used when placing items into the unit.
An exemplary dispensing unit of the type just
described is shown in Fig. 1. Briefly, the dispensing unit 10
includes an enclosure 12 and a plurality of adjustable
shelves 14. Optionally, the enclosure 12 can be divided into
a plurality of compartments 16 to increase the number of
shelves 14 that can be disposed in the enclosure 12. Each
shelf 14 can be further subdivided to form a plurality of
storage locations 18. Disposed on the shelves 14 and near
each storage location 18 are touch-sensitive buttons 20. The
buttons 20 are connected to a processor 22 which receives
signals from the buttons 20 when actuated.
The buttons 20 are disposed on the shelves 14 so
that each storage location 18 is associated with a button 20.
When an item is to be placed in or removed from a shelf 14,
the button 20 in close proximity to the storage location 18
holding the item is actuated. Actuation of the button 20
sends a signal to the processor 22 to record removal of an
item from or placement of an item into that particular storage
location 18.
A return item button 23 is disposed at the end of
each shelf 14. Actuation of the return item button 23 sends a
signal to the processor 22 to place the buttons 20 on that
particular shelf 14 in a credit mode. An item can then be
returned to one of the storage locations 18 on that particular
shelf 14, and the associated button 20 depressed to record
replacement of the item.
A plurality of visual indicators 24 are also
disposed on the shelves and near each of the buttons 20 so
that each button 20 has a corresponding visual indicator 24.
The visual indicators 24 are used to assist in locating an
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24
item to be removed from the dispensing unit 10. The
processor 22 contains a list of all of the items held in the
dispensing unit 10. From this list, a user can select the
desired item to be removed by entering the selection into the
processor 22. The processor 22 then sends a signal to actuate
the visual indicator 24 in close proximity to the storage
location 18 having the item.
The dispensing unit further includes a plurality of
doors 26 which can be used to provide security for the items
held in the unit 10. The doors 26 are preferably transparent
and can be locked to prevent access to the items in the unit
as described in more detail hereinafter.
The dispensing unit 10 has proven to be generally
successful in maintaining an inventory of items dispensed from
the unit. The invention as described in detail hereinafter
provides improvements to dispensing units of the type
described in Fig. 1. In one aspect of the invention, the
storage locations are configured such that they can at least
partially be pulled out or withdrawn from the dispensing unit.
This configuration allows easier access to the storage
locations. Exemplary apparatus for providing pull-out storage
locations include drawers, racks, bins, hangars, and the like.
Another particular advantage in using pull-out storage
locations is that the storage locations can be further
subdivided into a plurality of receptacles. The receptacles
can be arranged in either one-dimensional or a multi-
dimensional array. For example, in the case of drawers,
dividers can be placed therein to form either a single row of
receptacles or a plurality of rows. This allows the drawer to
be subdivided in a desired manner according to the number and
size of the receptacles required.
When providing the dispensing unit with a plurality
of receptacles, a separate sensor can be provided for each
receptacle to maintain an inventory of items either placed in
or removed from that particular receptacle. For example, in
the case of a drawer having a plurality of receptacles, each
receptacle would be provided with a sensor so that when an
item is withdrawn from one of the receptacles, the associated
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sensor can be actuated to record removal of the item from the
receptacle. In a similar manner, the sensor could also be
used to record placement of an item into the receptacle.
Exemplary sensors for maintaining a record of the inventory of
5 the items in the receptacles include touch-sensitive buttons,
weight sensors, optical sensors, electromagnetic sensors,
capacitative sensors, and the like.
In another aspect of the invention, a second set of
sensors can be utilized to determine when the storage
10 locations have been accessed. Use of storage location-
associated sensors is particularly advantageous when having a
plurality of storage locations with a plurality of receptacles
in at least some of the storage locations. By providing the
storage location-associated sensors, a common set of
15 receptacle-associated sensors can be used for the receptacles
of each of the storage locations rather than providing each
receptacle with a separate sensor. When a particular storage
location is accessed, the storage location-associated sensor
sends a signal to the processor indicating that that
20 particular storage location has been accessed. The processor
can then use this information to set the common set of
receptacle-associated sensors to correspond to the receptacle
locations of the accessed drawer. After an item has been
removed from a particular receptacle, the associated sensor
25 can then be actuated to record removal of the item from that
particular receptacle. Providing a common set of receptacle-
associated sensors is advantageous because it reduces the
circuitry otherwise required to provide each receptacle with a
separate sensor. Exemplary sensors for sensing when a
parti~.:ilar jtorage locat3En-has--been -accessed-inciude-
electromechanical switches, optical sensors, electromagnetic
sensors, capacitative sensors, and the like.
In another particular aspect, the dispensing unit
can be placed in a return item mode by actuating a return item
sensor near each of the storage locations. Actuation of the
return item sensor sends a signal to the processor to place
the receptacle-associated sensors in return mode. An item can
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26
then be replaced and the associated receptacle sensor actuated
to record replacement of the item.
Security for the items held in the dispensing unit
can be provided by a variety of devices. One such device is a
lock disposed near each pull-out storage location to prevent
withdrawal of the drawer until certain information, such as
user identification and patient identification information,
has been entered into the processor. When the required
information has been entered into the processor, the processor
can send a signal to unlock all of the storage locations, or
only the particular storage location having the item.
Locks can also be provided for the pull-out storage
locations so that once a storage location has been withdrawn,
all remaining storage locations are locked. Locking the
remaining storage locations in this manner is advantageous in
preventing confusion as to which receptacles correspond to the
common set of receptacle-associated sensors. Since only one
storage location can be accessed at a time, the receptacle-
associated sensors will correspond to the receptacles of the
withdrawn storage location.
In the case where all of the storage locations are
unlocked by the processor, withdrawal of one of the storage
locations will preferably cause all of the remaining storage
locations to become locked. This ensures that only one
storage location can be accessed at a time. When an item is
removed from a receptacle having the item, the associated
receptacle sensor can be actuated to record removal of the
item. In a preferred aspect, if the user was diligent in
recording removal by actuating the sensor, the processor sends
the signal to unlock all of the storage locations so that a
subsequent item can be removed. This allows a user access to
all of the storage locations as long as the user is diligent
in recording removal of an item from an accessed storage
location. If a particular storage location has been
withdrawn, and a receptacle-associated sensor was not
actuated, all of the storage locations will become locked upon
closure of the accessed storage location. To gain further
access to the storage locations, the user will be required to
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27
re-enter identification information into the processor. An
emergency by-pass switch can be provided on the unit so that
all of the storage locations can be accessed without being
required to enter identification information into the
processor. Exemplary locking devices include
electromechanical locks, electromagnetic locks, and the like.
When more than one item is to be removed from or
placed into a particular receptacle, the associated receptacle
sensor can be actuated according to the number of items to be
removed or added. For example, if three items were to be
removed from a particular receptacle, the sensor could be
actuated three different times to record removal of the three
items.
To assist the user in determining whether the sensor
has been actuated, the sensor can optionally be provided with
an audio indicator. For example, if the receptacle sensor
were a touch-activated sensor, when the button is depressed, a
beep would be produced to indicate that the button has been
actuated. In addition, the number of items taken can be
visually displayed on the screen of the associated processor.
This serves as verification that the touch-activated sensor
has been depressed the correct number of times.
Referring now to Fig. 2, an exemplary embodiment of
a dispensing unit 28 having a row of touch-sensitive buttons
30. The row of buttons 30 are common to a plurality of
drawers 32 that are slidably disposed within a frame 34. The
dispensing unit 28 can be a stand alone unit, or can
alternatively be a portion of a larger dispensing unit of the
type shown in Fig. 1. At least some of the drawers 32 are
provided with a plurality of receptacles 36 for holding items.
Preferably, each button 30 will be provided with a
unique button identification symbol 38, which will usually be
a numeral. The receptacles 36 of each drawer 32 will
preferably be provided with the same unique reference symbol
38 as its corresponding button 30. For example, as shown in
Fig. 2, if the unit 20 is provided with six touch sensitive
buttons 30, the buttons 30 can numbered one to six.
Accordingly, the receptacles 36 for each of the drawers 32
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28
will also be numbered from one to six (or any number less than
six if there are fewer than six receptacles in the drawer).
Of course, this assumes that the number of receptacles 36 will
be equal to or less than the number of buttons 30 so that a
receptacle 36 will always have a corresponding button 30.
Associated with each drawer 32 is a sensor 40 for
sensing when the drawer 30 has been pulled out from the
frame 34. Each of the sensors 40 and the buttons 30 are
connected to a processor (not shown) for receiving signals
from the sensors 40 or the buttons 30. When a particular
drawer 32 is opened, the associated sensor 40 sends a signal
to the processor indicating access to the drawer 32. The
processor then sends a signal to set the buttons 30 to
correspond to the receptacles 36 of the withdrawn drawer 32.
An item can then be either placed into or removed from a
particular receptacle and the button 30 having the same
identification symbol 38 as the accessed receptacle 36 is
touched to record removal or addition of the item to or from
the dispensing unit 28. Additional items can also be removed
or added from or to the receptacles 36 of the withdrawn drawer
32 with an inventory being maintained by selecting the
associated button 30. Once the drawer 32 is closed, another
can be withdrawn for removal of items in the same manner.
To assist in locating a particular item, a plurality
of visual indicators 42 are disposed near each of the
buttons 30 and each of the drawers 32 are provided with a
unique drawer identification number 44 that correspond to the
button identification symbols 38. With this configuration,
the processor can send a signal to actuate the visual
indicator 42 near the button 30 having the same identification
symbol as the drawer identification symbol 44 for the drawer
32 having the item. Once the drawer 32 having the item is
withdrawn, the processor can send another signal to actuate
the visual indicator 42 near the button 30 having the same
identification symbol as the receptacle 36 having the item.
Alternatively, instead of providing the drawer identification
symbols 44, a second set of visual indicators can optionally
be provided on the drawers 32, with each drawer 32 having a
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29
separate visual indicator. The processor can then send a
signal to actuate the drawer-associated visual indicator on
the drawer 32 having the item.
The sensors 40 can optionally be combined with
locking mechanisms, e.g., mechanical, electromagnetic, or the
like, such that when one drawer 32 is pulled out the others
are locked until the extended drawer 32 is returned. This
insures that the buttons 30 will always correspond to the
receptacles 36 of the withdrawn drawer 32.
A return item button 39 can be provided at the end
of the row of touch-sensitive buttons 30 for placing the
dispensing unit 28 in return mode. When return item button 39
is depressed, a signal is sent to the processor to place the
touch-sensitive buttons in return mode. A drawer 32 can then
be accessed, the item returned to the appropriate receptacle
36, and the associated touch-sensitive button 30 depressed to
record replacement of the item.
Shown in Fig. 3, is another embodiment of a
dispensing unit 46 having a plurality of pull-out racks 48.
The racks 48 are slidably disposed along a shelf 50. The
dispensing unit 46 can be a stand alone unit, or can
alternatively be used in a larger dispensing unit. At least
some of the racks 48 include a plurality of pegs 51 for
holding items 52. Exemplary items to be held on the pegs 51
include catheters which can be vertically hung from the pegs
51. Disposed near each of the racks 48 are a set of touch-
sensitive buttons 54 for recording removal or addition of
items. The dispensing unit 46 further includes a plurality of
sensors 56 for sensing when the racks 48 have been withdrawn
from the shelf 50. Both the buttons 54 and the sensors 56 are
connected to a processor (not shown). Optionally, the sensors
56 can also be provided with locks so that when one rack 48 is
pulled out the others are locked until the extended rack 48 is
returned. This insures that the buttons 54 will always
correspond to the pegs 51 of the withdrawn rack 48.
When a particular rack 48 is withdrawn from the
shelf 50, a signal is sent from the sensor 56 to the processor
to indicate withdrawal of the rack 48. The processor then
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sets the buttons 54 to correspond to the pegs 51 in a manner
similar to the embodiment previously described in connection
with Fig. 2. Also as previously described, a set of button
identification symbols 58 can be provided for each button 54
5 and for each peg 51 so that removal of an item 52 from one of
the pegs 51 can be recorded by touching the button 54 having
the same identification symbol 58 as the peg 51 having the
item 52.
A plurality of visual indicators 60 can be disposed
10 near each of the buttons 54, with each button 54 having a
separate visual indicator 60. The visual indicators 60 are
used to identify which rack 48 and which peg 51 on the rack 48
contains the desired item. For instance, to locate a
particular item, the processor can send a signal to the visual
15 indicator 60 near the rack 48 having the item. Preferably,
both the buttons 54 and the visual indicator 60 will be
disposed above and generally aligned with each of the racks 48
so that each button 54 and each visual indicator 60 correspond
to an aligned rack 48. Once the proper rack 48 has been
20 identified and withdrawn, the processor can send a signal to
the visual indicator 60 near the button 54 having the same
identification symbol 58 as the peg 51 having the item.
Alternatively, a second set of visual indicators could be
disposed near each peg to indicate which peg 51 has the item.
25 A return item button 59 can be provided at the end
of the row of touch-sensitive buttons 54 for placing the
dispensing unit in return mode. When return item button 59 is
depressed, a signal is sent to the processor to place the
touch-sensitive buttons 54 in return mode. A rack 48 can then
30 be accessed, the item returned to the appropriate peg 51, and
the associated touch-sensitive button 54 depressed to record
replacement of the item.
The dispensing unit 46 further includes a door 62
which can be used to provide security for the items held in
the unit 46 as described in more detail hereinafter.
Referring to Fig. 3A, a detailed view of one of the
pegs 51 of the dispensing unit 46 is shown. The peg 51 is
provided with a sensor 64 for sensing when one of the items 52
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31
has been removed from or added to the peg 51. The sensor
includes a lever 66 that is connected to the rack 48 by a
hinge 68. A microswitch 70 is disposed beneath the lever 66
to detect when the lever 66 has been lifted from the peg 51.
When the microswitch 70 is actuated, a signal is sent to the
processor indicating that one of the items 52 has been either
removed from or placed onto the peg 51. This embodiment is
particularly advantageous because it eliminates the need for
the touch-sensitive buttons 54 described in Fig. 3. The
sensor 64 is able to maintain an inventory of the items 52
without requiring the user to touch one of the buttons 54.
Shown in Fig. 3B is an alternative embodiment of the
dispensing unit 46 having an aperture 72 in the door 62. The
aperture 72 is disposed near the touch-sensitive buttons 54 so
that the buttons 54 are accessible even when the door 62 is
closed. As described generally in co-pending U.S. Application
Serial No. 08/250,223, filed May 27, 1994 (Attorney Docket No.
16166-1-1), the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by
reference, the door 62 is locked until appropriate
identification information, such as item identification
information, has been entered into the processor. When the
required information has been entered into the processor, a
signal is sent to unlock the door 62 to provide access to the
items in the unit 46. One way to enter item identification
information into the processor is to actuate the buttons 54.
The aperture 72 provides access to the buttons 54 when the
door 62 is closed and locked so that one of the buttons 54 can
be selected to indicate that an item is to be removed. Once
the button 54 is selected, the door 62 is unlocked to allow
access to the items.
In an exemplary method, access to one of the items
52 held in the unit 46 is as follows. After entering user
identification information and patient identification
information into the processor, the user selects the rack 48
having the item 52 by pressing the button 54 disposed above
the rack 48. In one particular aspect, the visual indicator
60 will then be actuated to remind the user which rack 48 was
selected. Actuation of the button 54 unlocks the door 62.
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When the door 62 is opened, the user can pull out the selected
rack 48 and remove the item 52 from the peg 51. Removal of
the item 52 is then recorded by pressing the button 54 having
the same identification number 58 as the peg 51 having the
item 52.
Referring to Fig. 3C, another alternative embodiment
of the dispensing unit 46 of Fig. 3 is shown with the touch-
sensitive buttons 54 being disposed along the racks 48. Each
peg 51 is provided with its own button 54 so that removal or
addition of an item 52 to or from the peg 51 can be recorded
by simply touching the button 54 disposed in closest proximity
to the peg 51 having the item 52. To assist in locating the
correct rack, visual indicators 60 can be disposed above each
of the racks 48. Actuation of one of the visual indicators 60
- signifies which rack 48 has the item to be removed. Once the
rack 48 has been withdrawn, the peg 51 having the item 52 can
be visually located by actuating the visual indicator 60
having the same button identification symbol as the peg 51
having the item 52. Alternatively, a second set of visual
indicators 61 can be provided near each of the buttons 54 to
indicate which peg 51 has the item.
Shown in Fig. 4 is another embodiment of a
dispensing unit 80 having a plurality of drawers 82 disposed
along rows 83. The dispensing unit 80 can be a stand alone
unit, or can alternatively be part of a larger dispensing
unit. Each row 83 of drawers 82 has an associated row of
touch-sensitive buttons 84 disposed on a panel 86, with each
button 84 being generally aligned with a drawer 82. At least
some of the drawers 82 include dividers 86 for dividing the
drawers 82 into a plurality of receptacles 88. Optionally, a
plurality of button identification symbols 90 can be provided
for each of the buttons 84 and for each of the receptacles 88
as previously described in Figs. 2 and 3. The unit 80 further
includes a plurality of visual indicators 92, with each button
84 having an associated indicator 92.
The dispensing unit 80 operates in a manner similar
to the dispensing unit 46 of Fig. 3 with the drawers 88
corresponding to the racks 48 and the receptacles 88
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33
corresponding to the pegs 51. A plurality of sensors 94 are
disposed near each drawer 82 and connected with a processor
(not shown) so that withdrawal of one of drawers 82 sends a
signal to the processor to indicate access of that particular
drawer. The processor then sets the row of buttons 84 over
the withdrawn drawer 82 to correspond to the particular
receptacles 88 of the withdrawn drawer 82. Removal of an item
or placement of an item into one of the receptacles 88 can be
recorded by actuating the button 84 having the same
identification symbol as the accessed receptacle 88. A return
item button 89 is provided at the end of the row of touch-
sensitive buttons 84 for placing the dispensing unit 80 in
return mode as previously described.
The dispensing unit 80 can further be provided with
a door 96 for providing security to the items held in the unit
80. The door 96 can be provided with a plurality of apertures
to correspond to the buttons 84 in a manner similar to the
apertures previously described in connection with Fig. 3B.
Referring to Fig. 5, the dispensing unit 80 can be
provided with a plurality of removable bins 98 instead of or
in addition to the drawers 82 described in Fig. 4. Removal of
one of the bins 98 is detected by a sensor (not shown) near
the bin 98 which sends a signal to the processor to set the
buttons 84 to correspond to a set of receptacles 100 in the
bin 98. To record removal of an item from the withdrawn
receptacle 100, the button 84 having the same identification
symbol 90 as the receptacle 100 having the item is actuated.
Turning to Fig. 6, an exemplary drawer 110 for a
dispensing unit of the type previously described in connection
with Fig. 1 will be described. The drawer 110 is slidably
mounted by a sliding mount 112 to a frame 114. The frame 114
is the same frame used to hold the shelf 116. The shelf 116
is essentially identical to the shelves 14 previously
described in connection with Fig. 1 and includes a plurality
of storage locations 118, a plurality of touch-sensitive
buttons 120, and a plurality of visual indicators 122.
The drawer 110 can be subdivided into a plurality of
receptacles 124 by dividers 126. The dividers 126 are
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34
adjustable so that the number and size of the receptacles 124
can be varied depending on the size or number of items to be
held in the receptacles 124. Disposed near each receptacle
124 is a touch-sensitive button 128 and a corresponding visual
indicator 130. Button covers 132 can be provided for covering
unnecessary buttons so that only one button 120 will be
associated with each receptacle 124.
The buttons 120 and the visual indicators 130 are
connected to a processor (not shown). When an item is removed
from or placed into a particular receptacle 124, removal or
placement of the item can be recorded by touching the
button 128 disposed adjacent the receptacle 124 having the
item. To assist in locating the receptacle 124 having the
item, the processor can send a signal to actuate the visual
indicator 130 disposed near the receptacle 124 having the
item.
As shown in Fig. 7, the drawer 110 can be provided
with a plurality of receptacle covers 134. The covers 134 are
preferably connected to the drawer 110 by a hinge 136 so that
the covers 134 can be lifted from the drawer 110 to obtain
access to the receptacles 124. The covers 132 can be provided
with a knob 138 to assist in lifting the cover 134.
A sensing mechanism comprising an electromagnetic
sensor 140 and a magnet 142 are provided to sense when the
cover 134 has been lifted. Alternatively, an optical sensor,
a capacitative sensor, or the like could also be used to sense
when the cover 142 has been lifted.
The electromagnetic sensor 140 sends a signal to the
processor to indicate that the cover 134 has been lifted.
This information can be used to record removal of an item from
the receptacle 124 or can be stored and compared with item
removal information entered by the button 128. If the cover
134 has been lifted more times than the button 128 was
actuated, a report can be generated indicating that further
user training or supervision may be required.
Preferably, the covers 134 will be substantially
transparent so that the items in the receptacles 124 and the
visual indicators 130 can be viewed with the cover 134 closed.
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The drawer 110 can be provided with a lock 144 for
locking the cover 134 until user identification and patient
identification information have been entered into the
processor. When the required information has been entered,
5 the processor will send a signal to unlock the cover 134
making the receptacle 124 available for access.
An alternative embodiment of the drawer 110 is shown
in Fig. 8. One of the covers 134 is provided with an aperture
146 so that the button 128 is accessible when the cover 134 is
10 closed. The aperture 146 is large enough to allow access to
the button 128 but small enough to prevent access to the
receptacle 124. When providing the cover 134 with the
aperture 146, the cover 134 will preferably remain locked
until the button 128 is actuated to indicate an item is to be
15 removed. This ensures that the removal of at least one item
will be recorded before the item is made available for
removal. Locking the cover 134 also serves as a reminder that
the buttons 128 should be depressed each time an item is
withdrawn from a receptacle 124 and also ensures a record of
20 removed items so that stock can be replenished.
The processor can also be configured to lock the
covers 134 and deny access to selected receptacles 124 based
on the user identification information entered into the
processor. Depending upon the user's identification, access
25 will only be provided to the receptacles 124 to which that
particular user is entitled.
Referring to Fig. 9, the drawer 110 is provided with
a plurality of receptacle sensors 148 arrayed along the sides
of the receptacle 124. The sensors 148 sense when a hand has
30 entered the receptacle 124 to take or add an item. Each time
the sensor is actuated, an entry is recorded. The touch
sensitive button 128 can optionally be provided and used to
register the number of items taken. If no items have been
taken, i.e. if no buttons 128 have been actuated, the sensors
35 148 can be used to record that the receptacle 124 has been
accessed by the user. If the receptacle 124 has been accessed
and the button 128 has not been actuated, then the processor
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36
can record removal of items based on the number of entries
into the receptacles 124.
A further alternative embodiment of an exemplary
dispensing unit 200 is shown in Fig. 10. The dispensing unit
200 is divided into a supply zone 202 and a pharmaceutical
zone 204. The supply zone 202 includes a plurality of shelves
206 that are subdivided into a plurality of storage locations
as previously described in connection with the dispensing unit
of Fig. 1. A plurality of touch-sensitive item buttons 208
10 are provided on each shelf 206 for recording the transfer of
an item to or from the storage location on the shelf 206 in
the manner previously described in connection with the
dispensing unit 10 of Fig. 1. The dispensing unit 200 further
includes a processor 210 that is in communication with the
buttons 208 for recording transfer information in the manner
previously described with the processor 22 of the dispensing
unit 10 of Fig. 1. As will be described in greater detail
hereinafter, the processor 210 is further employed to record
transfer and other information for the pharmaceutical zone
204.
The pharmaceutical zone 204 includes a plurality of
pull-out drawers 212. A door 214 may optionally be provided
over the drawers 212. The number of drawers 212 (as well as
the size of the pharmaceutical zone 204) are variable
- depending upon the number of pharmaceutical items to be held
in the dispensing unit 200. Optionally, the dispensing unit
200 can be provided with only a pharmaceutical zone 204 so
that only pharmaceutical items are held in the dispensing unit
200. Both the door 214 and the drawers 212 may be provided
with locks so that access can selectively be denied to the
entire pharmaceutical zone 204 or to selected drawers 212.
Limiting access is preferably best accomplished by including a
database in the processor 210 having a list of names of
medical personnel along with the names of items to which each
person may be afforded access. Upon entering of a nurse's
identification information into the processor 210, the nurse's
identification information is compared with the information in
the database to determine which areas of the dispensing unit
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200 that the nurse may access. The processor 210 can then
send a signal to unlock the door 214 or selected drawers 212
for which the nurse may be afforded access.
At least some of the drawers 212 are provided with a
plurality of bins 216 that are each preferably covered with a
lid 218. A touch-sensitive bin button 220 is located adjacent
each of the bins 216 and optionally may be configured to
operate essentially identical to the buttons 220 on the
dispensing unit 10 of Fig. 1 to record the transfer of items
to or from the bins 216. Each of the buttons 220 can
optionally be provided with a light source so that the button
220 can additionally serve as a visual indicator to locate the
bin 216 having an item that is selected from the processor
210. Also included on each drawer 212 is a touch-sensitive
drawer button 222. The drawer button 222 operates in a
similar manner as the bin button 220 except that the drawer
button 222 is employed to request the unlocking of the
associated drawer 212. When the drawer button 222 is touched,
a signal is sent to the processor 210 so that the processor
210 can send a return signal to unlock the drawer 212 and also
to produce a record of access to that particular drawer 212.
Optionally, the drawer button 222 can also function as a
visual indicator to assist in locating the drawer 212 having
an item requested from the processor 210. Optionally, each
lid 216 (or selected lids) may be provided with a lock to
secure the lid 218 in a closed position until receiving an
unlock signal from the processor 210 as described hereinafter.
The pharmaceutical zone 204 may be configured to
provide various levels of security to the items held in the
bins 216. Security is provided by requiring certain
information to be entered into the processor 210 before locks
on the door 214, the drawers 212, or the lids 218 will be
unlocked. For example, to gain initial access to the drawers
212, the nurse will preferably be required to enter in both
nurse and patient identification information. After entering
such information, a signal is sent from the processor 210 to
unlock the door 214 (if provided). The ability to access a
desired drawer 212 will then vary depending upon the
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particular security level of the drawer 212. In one aspect,
at least some of the drawers 212 will be configured to be "low
security" drawers which may be accessed by simply touching the
drawer button 222 to unlock the requested drawer 212. The low
security drawer 212 will have all of its bins 216 freely
accessible once the drawer 212 is open. Since access to the
bins 216 is freely afforded, the lids 218 may optionally be
removed. After removal of an item, the associated bin button
220 is touched to record the transaction as previously
described. After removal of the item or items, the nurse
closes the drawer 212 before requesting that another drawer be
opened. In the event that the first drawer is not closed, a
sensor (not shown) will detect that the first drawer has not
been closed and the user will be instructed to close the first
drawer before trying to select another drawer.
At least some of the drawers 212 can be configured
to be "medium security" drawers which may be accessed in
essentially the same manner as the low security drawers except
that the lids 218 will have an associated sensor (not shown)
to detect when the lid is open. The lids 218 are preferably
transparent so that the nurse may easily be able to identify
the items in the bins 216. Upon removal of a lid 218, a
signal is sent to the processor 210 to produce a record of
access to the drawer 218. This record may then be compared to
the record produced when the associated touch-sensitive bin
button 220 is depressed to record removal of an item. A
report may then be generated indicating any discrepancies
between access to the bins 216 and the recordation of a
transfer using the buttons 220.
In a further aspect, at least some of the drawers
212 can be configured to be "high security" drawers where the
lids 218 are opaque and access cannot be obtained until the
nurse enters item identification information into the
processor 210 for the particular item to be dispensed. Hence,
if the nurse fails to input the item identification
information into the processor 210, the drawer 212 will remain
locked even if the drawer button 222 is selected. If such
item identification information has been input, the drawer 212
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will unlock when the drawer button 222 is selected. The high
security drawers further differ from the medium security
drawers in that all of the lids 218 are locked except for the
lid 218 covering the bin 216 having the requested item. When
the drawer 212 is opened, only the bin 216 having the
requested item will have its lid 218 unlocked so that the
nurse can only gain access to the requested item.
Referring to Fig. 10A, an exemplary method for
removing an item from a high security type drawer will be
described. Initially, both nurse and patient identification
information are entered into the processor 210. Patient
identification information will usually be entered by
selecting the patient from a list of patients already in the
hospital. Such information will preferably be electronically
transferred from the hospital's admission computer system.
Item identification information for the item to be dispensed
is then input into the processor 210. The drawer button 222
having the requested item is then pressed to request that the
drawer 212 be unlocked. Optionally, the drawer button 222 can
be lighted to assist the user in locating the drawer 212
having the item. After the selected drawer 212 is unlocked,
the drawer 212 is retracted and the lid covering the bin 216
having the requested item is unlocked. Optionally, the bin
button 220 adjacent the unlocked bin 216 will be lighted to
assist in locating the bin 216 having the requested item. The
unlocked lid 218 is then opened and the requested item
removed. Since item identification information has already
been entered into the processor 210, the bin button 220 need
not be depressed to record the transaction.
In the event that the nurse attempts to open a lid
218 that is not unlocked, an alarm will be produced. After
the item has been removed, the lid 218 and the drawer 212 are
closed. If the lid is left open upon closure of the drawer
212, an alarm will be produced to remind the nurse to close
the lid 218. After the drawer 212 is closed, the nurse can
proceed with another transaction by entering the appropriate
information into the processor 210 and repeating the
previously described steps.
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The pharmacy zone 204 may alternately be configured
to provide various levels of security for the items held
therein based on information that is directly input into the
processor 210 prior to access of removal of any items. Such
5 information will usually take the form of nurse identification
information, item identification, and in some cases item
quantity information. Optionally, patient identification
information may also be input. In this way, a nurse may "pre-
select" both the type and quantity of items that are to be
10 removed before accessing a drawer or bin or other storage
location. If the processor 210 determines that the nurse may
have access to such items, the nurse will be guided via visual
indicators to the appropriate storage locations. Then, the
method of removal will vary depending on the particular
15 security level required for each item. Such methods are
illustrated in Figs. 10B-10D.
Fig. lOB illustrates a method for providing highest
level of security when item and quantity information has been
pre-selected, i.e. directly entered into the processor 210
20 prior to access and removal. After such information is
entered into the processor 210, a first drawer 212 unlocks
having a first one of the pre-selected items (assuming the
nurse may have access to that drawer). Optionally, the button
222 may light to indicate the unlocked drawer. The drawer 212
25 is then retracted and the button 220 adjacent the bin having
the first item is lighted to assist the nurse in locating the
item. All of the lids 218 will be locked except for the lid
covering the bin 216 having the item which will unlock after
receiving a signal from the processor 210 (based on the pre-
30 entered item information). The lid 218 is then opened and the
item (or items) is removed. In the event that the nurse
attempts to open another (unlocked) lid, an alarm is produced.
Following removal, the lid 218 is closed. If
another pre-selected item is held within the retracted drawer
35 212, the button 220 adjacent another bin 216 having the next
item is lighted. This bin is then unlocked, and the item is
removed from that bin as previously described. After all
items have been removed from the retracted drawer, the drawer
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is closed. If other preselected items are in other drawers,
they will each in turn unlock as previously described. In the
event that a lid is open when a drawer 212 is closed, an alarm
will sound to remind the nurse to close the lid.
Recordation of item removal is accomplished by
sensing when each lid is opened. Since the processor is
already provided with information regarding the items
(including quantity) to be removed, such lid sensing
information can be used to confirm that the pre-selected items
have actually been removed (and hence used to produce a record
of item remova l ) .
In some cases, a given bin will not have a
sufficient inventory of pre-selected items. In this case, the
nurse will remove all items (of a single type) from a bin with
a lighted button 220. When the lid 218 is closed, the
processor 210 will know how many more items of the same type
are still needed. The processor 210 will then send a signal
to light the button 220 adjacent another bin 216 having the
same type of items so that the pre-selected quantity can be
dispensed.
Before granting access to certain bins, the
processor 210 may be configured to require the presence of a
witness. In that event, a witness will be required to enter
witness identification information into the processor 210
before access to the desired bin will be granted.
A method for dispensing items with a lower level of
security is illustrated in Fig. lOC. The method of Fig. lOC
is essentially identical to that of Fig. 10B except that the
lids 216 are not locked. However, if a nurse attempts to
access a bin 216 for which the button 220 is not lighted, an
alarm will be produced. Alternatively, instead of producing
an alarm, the nurse can optionally be prompted to enter item
identification information into the processor 210 for
additional items that were not originally selected.
A method for dispensing items with still a lower
level of security is illustrated in Fig. lOD. With the method
of Fig. lOD, the items do not need to be held in a bin with a
lid. Optionally, the items may even be held on a rack or a
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42
shelf. After item and quantity information have been entered
into the processor 210, the button 220 adjacent the bin 216
(or rack or shelf) having a first pre-selected item will be
lighted. The nurse will then touch the button 220 to confirm
that access to the that bin has been obtained. If an
incorrect button is selected, an alarm will be produced. Upon
touching the correct button 220, the nurse then removes the
item (or items). If another type of item has been pre-
selected, the button 220 adjacent the bin 216 having the next
item will be lighted. After all items have been removed from
the first drawer, the drawer is closed. If other preselected
items are in other drawers, the nurse will in turn be directed
to each drawer and each bin as previously described.
Restocking of the drawers may be accomplished in
essentially the same manner as described with the dispensing
unit of Fig. 1 and as described in copending U.S. Application
Serial No. 08/095,619, previously incorporated herein by
reference. Alternatively, to restock drawers with items
needing heightened security, only the particular drawer 212
and bins 216 to be restocked will be unlocked. All remaining
bins 216 will be locked throughout the restocking process.
In an alternative restocking procedure, a list of
items and associated quantities that are to be restocked may
be entered into the processor 210 prior to restocking.
Preferably, the processor 210 will be in communication with a
central processor (not shown) which will regularly monitor the
inventory levels for each dispensing unit within the hospital.
When ready for restocking, the central processor will send the
list of items and quantities that are to be restocked to the
processor 210. The buttons 220 may then be lighted to guide
the restock person through the restocking procedure. Each
button may be pressed once to produce a message indicating how
many items are to be restocked in a given bin 216. After the
restock person has filled a bin 216, the touch-sensitive
button 220 adjacent the restocked bin 216 may be touched once
to confirm that the receptacle has been restocked with items
corresponding to the pre-entered information. If the restock
person wishes to restock an item or a quantity that is
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different from the pre-entered information, such information
may be manually entered into the processor 210 during the
restocking process.
As previously mentioned, each of the bins 216 may be
provided with a sensor to detect when the lid 218 covering the
bin 216 has been at least partially removed when accessing the
bin 216. In this way, heightened security can be provided to
the items since the nurse will know that each time a lid 218
is opened a record of access will be produced. If the nurse
opens one of the lids 218 and does not press the corresponding
bin button 220 to record a transfer, a discrepancy between the
access record and the removal record will result, thereby
requiring the nurse to account for the discrepancy. In the
case where item and quantity information are pre-selected, the
button 220 may not be needed since the lid sensor may be used
to produce a record of item removal.
A variety of sensors may be employed to detect
removal of the lid 218 so that a signal may be sent to the
processor 210 to produce an access record (or removal record)
for each of the bins 216. One exemplary sensor 224 is
=illustrated in Figs. 11 and 12. The sensor 224 is an electro-
mechanical sensor that is depressed by an arm 226 on the lid
218. The lid 218 is pivotally attached to the bin 216 so that
as the lid 218 is lifted, the arm 226 is rotated toward the
sensor 224. Optionally, a strain relief portion 228 may be
provided on the arm to prevent damage to the arm 226 or the
sensor 224. As best shown in Fig. 12, the arm 226 comes in
contact with the sensor 224 as the lid 218 is lifted. In
turn, the contact of the arm 226 with the sensor 224 causes a
switch 230 on the sensor 224 to depress and make an electrical
contact within the sensor 224. Upon contact, a signal is sent
to the processor 210 to produce a record of access (or
removal).
Referring to Figs. 13 and 14, an alternative
embodiment of a sensor 232 will be described. The sensor 232
comprises an IR pair detector. Attached to the lid 218 is an
arm 234 which is received in the sensor 232 when the lid 218
is closed. As best shown in Fig. 14, as the lid 218 is opened
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the arm 234 pivots and slides from the sensor 232 to break an
electrical circuit. The opening of the circuit is detected
and a signal is sent to the processor 210 to record an access
to the bin 216 (or to produce a record of removal).
A further alternative embodiment of a sensor 236 for
the bin 216 is shown in Figs. 15-17. The sensor 236 comprises
a metallic spring clip that is part of an electrical circuit.
The lid 218 includes a tab 238 that is removed from the sensor
236 when the lid 218 is open as best shown in Fig. 16. When
the lid 218 is closed, the tab 238 separates the spring clip
236 to close the circuit. As the lid 218 is opened, the clip
236 closes and the circuit is opened. When the circuit is
opened, current flow through the circuit may be detected and a
signal sent to the processor 210 to record access to the bin
216 (or to produce a record of removal).
Referring to Fig. 18, one embodiment of the drawer
212 having a waste receptacle 240 will be described. The
waste receptacle 240 is provided to receive items that have
previously been dispensed but for some reason cannot be
returned to its original storage location (such as if the item
has been only partially used or has been contaminated). In
such cases, it is desirable to return the item so that the
patient's bill may be credited and also so that the nurse may
have evidence of the item's return which may subsequently be
needed to explain the removal of a replacement item. The
waste receptacle 240 is covered by a lid 242 having an
elongate slot 244. The slot 244 is preferably covered by a
one-way door 246 so that items may be introduced into the
receptacle 240 through the one-way door 246 but cannot be
removed once they are placed therein. The lid 242 will
preferably be locked so that access to the receptacle 240 can
only be gained by authorized personnel once appropriate
identification information has been input into the processor
210.
Illustrated in Fig. 18A is an exemplary method for
wasting a previously dispensed item into the waste receptacle
240. Initially, the nurse returning the item enters nurse
identification information into the processor 210. The nurse
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will also enter information into the processor 210 identifying
the patient for whom the item was originally dispensed so that
the patient's account may be credited. The nurse will further
enter item identification information into the processor 210
5 identifying the item to be wasted. With some items, a witness
will be required during wastage. In such an event, the
processor will prompt the nurse to have a witness enter their
identification information into the processor 210. The
processor 210 will also prompt the nurse to enter the quantity
10 of the item that is to be wasted along with an explanation of
why the item is to be wasted. After such information has been
input into the processor 210, the nurse withdraws the drawer
212 having the waste receptacle 240 and places the item to be
wasted in the slot 244.
15 When dispensing pharmaceutical items, it is often
desirable to store only a single item in each of the
receptacles, often referred to as single dose dispensing. By
providing only one item in each of the receptacles, records
containing access information to the receptacles and transfer
20 information of items from the receptacles can more easily be
correlated. Single dose dispensing is provided in the present
invention by providing a sensor for each of the receptacles so
that as each receptacle is accessed, a record of the access is
produced. In the case where item and quantity information are
25 pre-entered, the record of access may also be employed to
produced a record of removal. Each receptacle may optionally
be provided with an associated touch-sensitive button for
recording transfer information as an item is removed from each
receptacle. Since only one item is held in each receptacle,
30 if the access report and the transfer report do not correlate,
the nurse responsible for the discrepancy may more easily be
identif ied .
An exemplary drawer 248 that is configured to
dispense items in single doses is illustrated in Figs. 19 and
35 20. The drawer 248 may be integrated into the dispensing unit
200 in the pharmaceutical zone 204 in a manner similar to the
drawers 212. The drawer 248 includes a plurality of
receptacles 250. The receptacles 250 may vary in size, and
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46
are preferably aligned in rows. As described in greater
detail hereinafter, the receptacles 250 are slidably held
behind a cover 252 which is removable from the drawer 248 to
provide access to all of the receptacles 250 during
restocking. Associated with each row of receptacles 250 is a
touch-sensitive receptacle button 254. The buttons 254
operate essentially identical to the bin buttons 220 to record
transfer of items to or from the receptacles 250 as previously
described. The buttons 254 may also be used to direct a nurse
to the proper receptacle 250.
A plurality of lids 256 are provided to cover the
receptacles 250. The lids 256 are slidably received within
the cover 252 and can be axially translated along their
respective rows. Each row of receptacles 250 will have all
but one of its receptacles covered by a lid 256. In this way,
only one receptacle 250 in each of the rows can be accessed at
a time. To access an item 260, the lid 256 covering that item
260 will be slid from its receptacle 250 until it covers an
adjacent receptacle 250 that does not have a lid 256.
optionally, a manual lock 258 will be provided to lock the
cover 250 to the drawer 248 so that access to all of the
receptacles 250 (such as when restocking) may only be afforded
when the lock 258 is opened.
Referring to Figs. 21 and 22, an exemplary method
for removing one of the items 260 from one of the receptacles
250 will be described. After nurse and patient identification
information have been entered and the drawer 248 is accessed
as previously described, the nurse slides the lid 256 in the
direction of arrow 262 to cover the adjacent (open) receptacle
250 and to expose item 260. The nurse then lifts the item 260
from the receptacle 250 as illustrated in Fig. 22. The nurse
then touches the touch-sensitive receptacle button 254 in the
row having the item 260 to record its transaction. As the lid
256 is translated from the receptacle 250, the removal of the
lid 256 is sensed and is stored in the processor for later
comparison. Alternatively, item and quantity information may
be entered into the processor before a receptacle is accessed
so that removal of a lid 256 will produce a record of item
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47
removal, thereby eliminating the need to push to button 254.
Further, access to certain receptacles can be controlled (e.g.
with a lock) based on the pre-entered item identification
information.
Removal of the lid 256 from the receptacle 250 may
be sensed with a variety of mechanisms such as optical
sensors, electromechanical sensors, and the like. One
exemplary optical sensor 264 is illustrated in Fig. 23. The
sensor 264 comprises a light source 265 and a photodetector
267. As the lid 256 is translated from the receptacle 250,
light from the light source 265 directly impinges on the
photodetector 267 to produce a record of the lid's removal.
An alternative sensor 266 is illustrated in Figs. 24
and 25. The sensor 266 comprises a pair of electrically
conductive leads 268 that are biased together to close an
electrical circuit. Conveniently, the leads 268 also form a
track for the lid 256. When the lid 256 is inserted between
the leads 268, the leads 268 are separated from each other and
the circuit is broken. To access the receptacles 250, the lid
256 is slid from the leads 268 to close the circuit. The
closing of the circuit will then be'detected and used to send
a signal to the processor 210 indicating access to the
receptacle 250.
Referring to Fig. 26, an alternative sensor 270 will
be described. The sensor 270 is constructed in a manner
similar to the sensor 266 except that the sensor 270 is
vertically oriented. With this configuration, each of the
lids 256 will be provided with a pair vertical walls 272, with
one of the walls 272 being received within the sensor 270 to
open the electrical circuit. When the lid 256 is slid from
the receptacle 250, the wall 272 is removed from the sensor
270 to close the circuit so that a signal may be detected.
Referring to Fig. 27, removal of the cover 252 to
expose the receptacles 250 during restocking will be
described. For restocking, the dispensing unit 200 is placed
in restocking mode and the drawer 248 is accessed as
previously described. The technician then inserts a key into
the lock 258 to unlock the cover 252. The cover 252 is then
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raised and is held open by an arm 274. When the cover 252 is
raised, all of the receptacles 250 are available for access
so that the technician can rapidly fill each of the
receptacles 250. Recordation of the transfer may be
accomplished by pressing the touch-sensitive receptacle button
254 the number of times for the number of items replaced into
each row of receptacles 250. After restocking, the lid 252 is
closed and locked, and the drawer 248 is then closed. In an
alternative restocking procedure, the processor may be
provided with a list of items that are to be restocked. Once
such items have been restocked, the restock person may touch
the button 254 once to confirm that restocking has occurred.
Referring Figs. 28-31, an alternative embodiment of
a drawer 276 for single dose dispensing will be described.
The drawer 276 may be incorporated into the dispensing
unit 200 in the pharmaceutical zone 204 in a manner similar to
drawers 212 or 248 as previously described. The drawer 276
includes a plurality of receptacles 278 that are each covered
by a lid 280. As best shown in Fig. 29, each lid 280 is
pivotally attached over its associated receptacle 278. The
receptacles 278 are sized to receive a single pharmaceutical
item such as a drug 282 (see Fig. 29). To gain access to the
receptacles 278, a release button 284 that is adjacent each
receptacle 278 is depressed as shown in Fig. 29. The lid 280
is spring loaded so that upon depression of the release
button 284, the lid 280 is unlatched and swings open.
Depression of the release button 284 also produces a record of
access to the receptacle 278.
As best shown in Figs. 30 and 31, associated with
each lid 280 is a sensor 286 which is activated by an arm 288
on the lid 280 when the button 284 is depressed. Arm 288 is
also configured to engage a latch 290 on the release
button 284 when the lid 280 is in a closed position. The
latch 290 holds the lid 280 securely over the receptacle 278
to prevent access to the receptacle 278 until the release
button 284 is depressed. As the button 284 is depressed, the
latch 290 buckles inward about a hinge 292 and disengages the
latch 290 from the arm 288. As the latch 290 moves downward
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and inward upon depression of the release button 284, the arm
288 is forced downward toward the sensor 286. The tolerance
between the arm 288 and the sensor 286 is such that the
arm 288 contacts the sensor 286 before the arm 288 is released
from the latch 290. In this way, the sensor is able to detect
when the button 284 is depressed and can send a signal to the
-mrnrr~ccnr ?'i (1 t~ J:':d3Cat aCCes~ ~~ +-he re'.-,., 3 --.,-.i -~
l+~ ~~+~~+~+~~ a.aac i c...c1J lCi~.le G 78 .
Optionally, a touch-sensitive button (not shown) similar to
the button 254 on the drawer 248 can be provided for recording
removal of the drug 282 from the receptacle 278 after the
lid 280 has been opened. A record of removal can then be
compared with the access record to determine any discrepancies
as previously described. In a further alternative, the lids
280 may be provided with locks (not shown) which are in
communication with the processor 210. Further, item
identification information will be required to be entered into
the processor 210 before a corresponding lid will be unlocked.
In this way, access to certain receptacles 278 can be limited
by the processor 210 to only receptacles having items from the
pre-entered item identification information.
Referring to Figs. 32-36, yet another alternative
embodiment of a drawer 294 for single item dispensing will be
described. The drawer 294 may be included in the dispensing
unit 200 in the pharmaceutical zone 204 in a manner similar to
the drawers 248 and 276 as previously described. The
drawer 294 is provided with a plurality of enclosures 296 that
are each covered by a lid 298. For convenience of discussion,
the lid on the exposed enclosure 296 is shown removed. Within
each enclosure 296 are three rollers 300, 302, and 304. As
best shown in Figs. 33-36, roller 302 is provided with two
elongate slots 306 and 308, and roller 304 is provided with
two elongate slots 310 and 312. Connected to the roller 300
is a motor (not shown) for rotating the roller 300. The
roller 302 is in contact with the roller 300 so that upon
rotation of the roller 300, the roller 302 will be rotated in
the opposite direction. In a similar manner, the roller 304
is in contact with the roller 302 and will rotate in the
direction of roller 300 when the roller 300 is rotated. The
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slots 306, 308, 310 and 312 are positioned so that upon each
quarter turn of the roller 300 one of the slots will be
exposed in the enclosure 296, as shown by the exposed slot 310
in Fig. 32.
5 A sensor (not shown) is provided for detecting when
the lid 298 is opened. The sensor is in communication with
the processor 210 so that when the lid 298 is opened a signal
is sent from the processor 210 to the motor to rotate the
roller 300 a quarter turn to expose a slot having an item.
10 Each of the slots 306, 308, 310, and 312 are provided with a
single pharmaceutical item so that upon each access to the
enclosure 296 a single item will be available for removal. A
touch-sensitive button 314 is provided for each enclosure 296
so that a record of removal can be produced each time an item
15 is removed as previously described. In a further aspect, the
sensor associated with each lid 298 will preferably be
employed to send a signal to the processor 210 to produce a
record of access to the enclosure 296 as previously described.
Alternatively, item identification information may
20 be required to be entered into the processor before access
will be given to a drawer or a receptacle. In this way, when
removal of a lid 298 is sensed, a record of item removal may
be produced, thereby eliminating the need to push to button
314. Further, access to certain receptacles can be controlled
25 (e.g. by not rotating the roller 300) and will not be allowed
unless item identification information has previously been
entered into the processor.
Referring to Figs. 33-36, operation of the
rollers 300, 302, and 304 will be described in greater detail.
30 Fig. 33 illustrates the position of the rollers as shown in
Fig. 32. As the lid 298 is opened, the roller 300 turns a
quarter turn in a counter-clockwise direction, causing the
roller 302 to rotate a quarter turn in a clockwise direction.
In turn, the roller 304 is rotated a quarter turn in the
35 counter-clockwise direction to place the slot 310 in a upward
position where it is exposed in the enclosure 296. As shown
in Fig. 34, the second time the lid 298 is opened, the
roller 300 rotates another quarter turn in a counter-clockwise
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direction to place the slot 306 in an upward position where it
is exposed in the enclosure 296. The position of the
slots 306, 308, 310, and 312 when the lid 298 is opened the
third time is shown in Fig. 35. As the roller 300 is rotated
a quarter turn in the counter-clockwise direction, the
slot 312 is placed in the upward position so that its item may
be removed. As the lid 298 is opened the fourth time, the
roller 300 turns a quarter turn in the counter-clockwise
direction to place the slot 308 in the upward position, as
shown in Fig. 36.
Although the enclosure 296 is shown with three
rollers and four slots, other combinations of rollers and
slots can be provided so that each enclosure 296 can hold more
or less than four items.
Referring back to Fig. 10, additional features of
the processor 210 will be described. Periodically, the items
in the pharmaceutical zone 204 may need to be checked to
determine if the items have expired or have been recalled. In
such a case, an expiration/recall button 316 on the
processor 210 may be selected so that access to the
drawers 212 can be obtained. After pressing the button 316,
the nurse selects the touch-sensitive drawer button 222 to
open the selected drawer 212. Each time one of the lids 218
are opened, the processor 210 prompts the technician to enter
the quantity of items removed. A record of removal is then
produced so that an accurate inventory can be maintained in
the pharmaceutical zone 204. In another aspect of the
processor 210, item name aliases may be entered into the
processor 210 so that a nurse may more easily be able to
identify an item by either its brand name or its generic name.
The dispensing unit 200 may be connected to a local
area network to place the processor 210 in communication with
a central processor, as previously described, or with various
other databases or processors. In one particular aspect, the
processor 210 may be placed in communication with a variety of
pharmaceutical databases, such as those having drug delivery
information, dosage information, drug warning information, and
the like. The processor 210 can alternatively be configured
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to only permit access to such information based on the nurse
identification information that is initially entered into the
processor 210. In this way, the processor 210 can regulate
access to certain databases and information included on the
local area network.
Placing the dispensing unit 200 on the local area
network is further advantageous in that drug dispensing
information can easily be downloaded. Usually, a variety of
dispensing units that are similar to the dispensing unit 200
(and are in the same or in different hospitals) will be on the
same network. In this way, drug consumption reports from a
variety of hospitals can rapidly be generated to determine the
types and quantities of drugs being dispensed.
The invention has been described in considerable
detail for purposes of understanding. However, alternative
embodiments of the invention will occur to those skilled in
the art. Therefore, the above description should not be taken
as limiting the scope of the invention. Instead, the scope of
the invention should be determined chiefly with reference to
the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalence
to which those claims are entitled.
