NU 12 # 1-Product design by Arlene Buan-Gerona

 NU#1

NEW PRODUCT DESIGN/IMPROVEMENT

ARLENE BUAN-GERONA

I have been hearing stories and have read some articles on the increasing number of patients suffering from kidney failure and those who require dialysis treatment. I remember my nanny told me stories two weeks ago of all the struggles her dad has to go through for his dialysis treatment. They carry the burden of not only the cost of treatment but foremost the accessibility of such treatment facilities, which is only available in the town proper which is about 6 hours away from their place.  Patients who are not able to move from one place to another for a regular dialysis treatment like senior citizens, physically-challenged, and those who are suffering from chronic pain, must be provided with a more accessible treatment facilities. In this regard, I propose a Dialysis on wheels—Automobile Dialysis Unit.

MOBILE RENAL DIALYSIS UNIT is a healthcare delivery facilities designed to provide on-site dialysis treatment. The primary purpose is to provide convenient, cost effective, quality care to patients with chronic kidney failure requiring dialysis treatment. By providing alternative to the conventional in-centre and hospital based dialysis treatment. It will offer a solution to bridge the existing gap of limited availability for those patients whom because of demographics, co-morbid conditions, or lack of community transportation an alternative. It provides the opportunity for clients to receive the best care and treatment.

SPECS:

The mobile dialysis van is a fully functional unit which works exactly like a dialysis centre This vehicle has the clinical, technical and support staff and is well equipped with the necessary machinery required to perform the standard procedure. This includes dialysis machine, recliner, power backup, and a water tank with water purified through reverse osmosis (RO).

It has a fully automated and remote controlled dialysis chair, which works like a dialysis bed and there is a monitor deliberator and an artificial respirator. It also carries accessories and equipment required to tackle emergencies. The machine and accompanying accessories can be moved into homes and patients can receive the treatment along the bedside

Procedures:

This procedure follows the successful pattern for remote dialysis established over the years in different countries by road and similar concept being utilized on the available mobile medical services in our country; whereby the dialysis machine and others medical facilities needed for dialysis are built in the automobiles.

Trips will be prioritized in consultation with patients, medical staff and the Local Committee. The mobile dialysis unit would generally be used as follows

1. Patients would get medical clearance from the hospital's nephrologist prior to the trip.

2. Patients will be scheduled

3. The mobile unit would drive to the scheduled destination

4. The mobile unit would then be set up on the remote community or in designated location

5 While on the community, the patient, renal nurse and an aboriginal health worker would encourage awareness and prevention of renal disease. 4