Monday, July 25, 2022

Suction Machine

 Suction Machine

A suction machine, also called an aspirator, may be a variety of medical device that's primarily used for removing obstructions  like mucus, saliva, blood, or secretions  from a person’s airway. When a personal is unable to clear secretions because of a scarcity of consciousness or an ongoing process, suction machines help them breathe by maintaining a transparent airway.

In practice care professionals use suction machines as an integral a part of a treatment plan when a patient’s airway is partially or completely obstructed.

Some common uses include:

  • Removing respiratory secretions
  • Assisting a patient whom vomiting while seizing or unconscious
  • Clearing blood from the airway
  •  Removing a remote substance from a patient’s windpipe and/or lungs (pulmonary aspiration)

Since suction machine can be used in the conjunction with other medical technologies to treat a variety of life-threatening conditions, aspirators have become a mainstay in both the pre-hospital and in-hospital settings.

Suctioning process

Suctioning is ‘the mechanical aspiration of pulmonary secretions from a patient with a man-made airway in place’. The procedure involves preparation of the patients , the suctioning event(s) and follow-up care. Suction is employed to clear retained or excessive lower tract secretions in patients who are unable to try and do so effectively for themselves. This might ensue to the presence of a synthetic airway, like an endotracheal or tracheostomy tube, or in patients who have a poor cough  to an array of reasons like excessive sedation or neurological involvement. Having a synthetic airway in place impairs the cough reflex and should increase mucus production. Therefore, within the neonatal and paediatric ICU, suctioning of a synthetic airway is probably going to be the foremost common procedure.

Oropharangeal and nasopharangeal suction could be a technique intended to stimulate a cough to get rid of excess secretions and/or aspirate secretions from the airways that can’t be off from a patient’s own spontaneous effort. A cough is also stimulated by a catheter within  pharynx (oropharangeal suction) or by passing a catheter between vocal cords and into trachea to stimulate a cough (nasopharangeal suction). The trachea is accessed by insertion of a suction catheter either via the nasal passage and pharynx (nasotracheal suction) or through the oral cavity and pharynx (orotracheal suction) using an airway adjunct. Nasotracheal suction is also undertaken directly via the nostril without an airway adjunct. However, in some situations, where repeated suction is anticipated and thus a nasopharyngeal airway should be utilised. Secretions are removed by the applying of sub-atmospheric pressure via wall mounted suction apparatus or portable suction unit.

The History of the Aspirator

The first conventional aspirator was introduced by a cardiologist whose  name was Pierre Carl Edouard Potain in 1869. His aspirator was a manual machine that used a pump to empty abscesses and fluid build-up within the chest, with the goal of preventing failure. When the electricity became reliable, suction machines transitioned from manual devices to electrically powered devices. However, until the late 1970s, aspirators were extremely large and were often permanently affixed to a wall.

Types of aspirators

1) Manual Suction Devices

A manual suction device is any device that makes suction without the utilization of battery or electricity. Many hospitals and emergency management agencies have moved off from them because the suction they create is commonly unpredictable and inconsistent.

These devices generally work by squeezing a pump to make a vacuum. They’re often attached to large canisters. For a few of those devices, the strength of the suction is heavily keen about the speed at which you squeeze the pump. Smaller devices, like the bulbs accustomed clear the nostrils and mouths of new-borns, are considered manual suction devices.

2) Stationary suction machines

For decades, fixed (stationary) equipment was the most common machine because they were reliable, effective, and durable. However, their lack of portability has many shortcomings. Patients cannot be provided with stationary suction machines during transportation, and they can only provide emergency care within the four walls of the hospital.

3) Portable suction machines

Portable suction machines are becoming more and more popular due to advances in suction and battery technology. Portable suction devices are designed to be lightweight and more easy to be move or transport, making them perfect for patients and healthcare professionals.

Manual, stationary and portable vacuum cleaners find their place in a modern care environment. Each has its own strengths, and healthcare professionals can use various types of suction devices during different stages of treatment.

Common Uses for Suction Machines

Suction machines are often used when a patient has liquid or semi-solid blockages in the throat, windpipe, or other oral cavity. However, the ideal suction device may vary depending on the condition of the patient. Here are some scenarios in which patients or professionals might use a portable suction machine.

Ongoing Patient Care

Patients may be need the portable suction devices at home if they are unable to remove their own secretions for various reasons. This includes palliative care patients who find it difficult or impossible to evacuate their own secretions, people with chronic diseases (COPD, ALS, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, etc.) or patients who have had a tracheostomy.

Pre-hospital

Portable suction devices are very common in the preclinical setting because they play a crucial role in helping emergency services set up ABCs (airway, breathing, and circulation). In practice, pre-clinical service providers often use portable suction devices to treat a wide variety of patients. These include trauma victims with blood in the airways, victims of overdose with vomiting in the airways, and other victims who experience respiratory distress syndrome.

In-Hospital

Most hospitals have rooms equipped with fixed wall-mounted suction devices. Nursing teams often use stationary aspirators as part of standard procedures such as tracheostomies, sinus disease, and tonsillectomies. However, hospitals typically have some wearable devices for specific use cases. For example, if a patient needs an aspirator but there is no wall-mounted aspirator in the patient’s room, the care team will find and retrieve a portable aspirator instead of moving the patient to another room. Also, they are used to treat patients out of a room when hospitals are busy.

How Portable Suction Machines Work

Portable suction devices generate negative pressure that passes through a special plastic connecting tube, a so-called disposable catheter. The negative pressure creates a vacuum effect that draws blood, mucus, or similar secretions from the throat. The secretions are then automatically introduced into a collection container.

Portable suction devices rely on a number of key technologies to create negative pressure and remove secretions. Below is a list of the most common components within a suction machine.

Disposable or rechargeable batteries

The suction machines are built with powerful batteries to ensure they can provide suction capabilities when a reliable power source is not available.

Suction/vacuum pump

The vacuum pump is often located inside the aspirator. This causes negative pressure and is necessary for the suction machine to work.

Connection tubing

This connects the vacuum pump to the collecting tank. You should never touch the contents of the collection container.

Sterile patient tubing

The patient hose is connected to the suction tip and directs the patient’s secretions to the collection container. Sterile patient tubes must be disposed of properly after each suction session.

 Disposable canister

The disposable container holds the patient’s secretions and often provides overflow protection in the event that the patient sucks in too much fluid. This container must be disposable to ensure that all parts of the suction machine remain sterile.

Power cord

Portable suction machines come with a power cord that can be used to charge the machine when you’re close to a power outlet.

Filters

Ideally, a disposable canister should withstand the use of bacteria / virus filters to prevent contamination within the internal components of the aspirator. Certain filters can also be used to protect against dangerous dust and gases that can damage the machine

Troubles in Suction machine            

  • LOW or NO pressure at end of Filter
  • LOW or NO pressure at Regulator Port
  • Machine is not plugged in or is not turned on.
  • Suction pressure is not properly set
  •  LOW or NO pressure at Patient Port
  •  LOW or NO pressure at end of Suction Tubing


 


 

Tuesday, July 19, 2022

ROLES OF REHABILITATION ENGINEERS & HOW REHABILITATION ENGINEERING IMPROVES THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR INDIVIDUALS?

 ROLES OF REHABILITATION ENGINEERS 

                

They may suggest commercially available equipment to solve the problem of the disabled.

Example :

Rehabilitation engineers assisting workers in wheelchairs can choose commercially available components to set up an ergonomic workstation with height-adjustable desks and desks, as well as computer monitors and keyboards that are repositioned as workplaces. A rehabilitation engineer working in a rehabilitation centre may recommend electronic assistive devices used in daily life to activate the appliances and lights in her kitchen.

They adjust and personalize technology and create unique solutions to meet the needs of people with disabilities.

Example:

A rehabilitation engineer working in the school system has a pre-schooler with limited leg movement and can modify an electric toy car so that it can be driven by manual control instead of pedals. Another rehabilitation engineer working in a resource center could make wheelchair camera mounts for amateur photographers who use wheelchairs.

They can develop new technologies and new products to solve the problems faced by the disabled.

 Example:

Rehabilitation engineers invented a voice activation system to operate mobile phones and PDAs. Rehabilitation engineers also invented a wheelchair-mounted power supply system that draws power from the wheelchair’s battery to provide backup power for the ventilator.

They can test whether equipment and products comply with consumer safety and compliance with state, federal and international regulations.

Example:

Perform stress, performance and failure analysis tests for rehabilitation engineers working in independent test labs to determine the structural integrity of the wheelchair. They can also use crash test dummies to analyze the safety of wheelchair fastening systems in vehicles.

Rehabilitation engineers complement the work of other professionals, such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech pathologists. They use a unique engineering perspective to solve problems and provide technical assistance for technical systems and solutions that are generally beyond the reach of physicians.


HOW REHABILITATION ENGINEERING  IMPROVES THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR INDIVIDUALS?

1.REHABILITATION ROBOTICS

Rehabilitation robots can provide personalized, task-oriented, long-term, intensive, standardized, and repeatable training for stroke or other non-progressive brain injury patients. The application and utility of robotic orthotics is a rapidly developing field with many promising but unproven parallel research directions. Due to the potential and rapid expansion of this treatment category, it is necessary to introduce some basic knowledge. There are many designs of robotic or electric upper limb orthoses. Most of them are sensing exoskeletons, whose motion is consistent with human joints, and provides natural arm motion. These single-joint or multi-joint movements can be completely driven by the robot, controlled by electromyography (EMG) signals or a hybrid control system. The complexity and analytical capabilities of robot-assisted therapy enable neurorehabilitation specialists to use general clinical measurements of motion range, spasticity, and pain as clinical endpoints, turning to coordinated measurements of multiple joints in patients. Functional performance of the upper limbs.

2.VIRTUAL  REHABILITATION

For patients suffering from various diseases, such as musculoskeletal problems, stroke paralysis, and cognitive deficits, virtual reality can be used as an enhancement to traditional therapies. This method is called “augmented rehabilitation.” Or, virtual reality can completely replace traditional interventions, in which case rehabilitation is “virtual reality-based.” If the intervention is carried out remotely, it is called “tele rehabilitation”. Simulation exercises have been developed for stroke patients using the “teacher’s object” method or the video game method. Simulation of musculoskeletal patients using virtual replicas of rehabilitation equipment (such as rubber balls, electric putties, nail boards). A virtual environment is provided that induces phobias to patients with cognitive impairment. Enhanced rehabilitation has been shown to be effective for stroke patients in the chronic stage of the disease. Rehabilitation treatment based on virtual reality has improved patients with fear of flying, Vietnam syndrome, fear of heights and chronic stroke.

3.PHYSICAL PROSTHETICS

Physical prosthetics, such as smart prosthetics with electric ankles, exoskeletons, right-handed upper extremities, and hands. This is an area where researchers continue to advance design and functionality to better mimic natural limb movement and user intent.

Physical prosthetics are designed to restore normal function to missing parts of the body. The rehabilitation of amputees is mainly coordinated by physical therapists, as part of an interdisciplinary team composed of physical therapists, prosthetists, nurses, physical therapists, and occupational therapists.  Prosthetics can be created manually or using computer-aided design (CAD), which is a software interface that helps creators use computer-generated 2D and 3D graphics and analysis and optimization tools to design and analyze. 

4.SENSORY PROSTHETICS

Sensory prosthetics, such as the retina and cochlear implants, to restore some lost functions, provide navigation and communication, increase independence, and integrate into the community.

5.BRAIN COMPUTER INTERFACES

The brain-computer interface allows people with severe disabilities to communicate and obtain information. These technologies use electrical impulses from the brain to enable people to move the cursor of a computer or robotic arm so that they can touch and grab objects or send text messages.

The brain-machine interface (BMI) is a system that records, decodes, and finally converts brain signals into effector actions or behaviours, which do not necessarily involve the movement system. In the past 20 years, more and more BMI systems have been developed for communication, control and rehabilitation of different types of equipment.

6.MODULATION OF ORGAN FUNCTION

As an intervention for urinary incontinence and fecal incontinence and sexual dysfunction. Recent advances in neuromodulation of the peripheral nervous system are expected to address organ function in the event of a spinal cord injury.



  


 

 


 


Wednesday, July 13, 2022

FETAL ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY

 FETAL ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY

Fetal echocardiography is a test similar to ultrasound. This test allows your doctor to better understand the structure and function of your fetus’s heart. It is usually done in the second trimester, between weeks 18 and 24.

This test uses sound waves to “echo” the structure of the fetal heart. A machine analyses these sound waves and creates an image or an echocardiogram of the inside of your heart. This image provides information about how the baby’s heart is formed and whether it is working properly.

 Also allows your doctor to see the blood flow through the baby’s heart. This in-depth observation allows your doctor to find out if there is any abnormality in the baby’s blood flow or heartbeat.

How does a fetal echocardiogram work?

  • A small probe called a transducer (similar to a microphone) is placed on the mother’s abdomen and emits ultrasound waves at an inaudible frequency.
  • When the transducer is placed at a specific position and at a specific angle, sound waves pass through the skin of the mother and baby to the baby’s heart tissue, where the sound waves bounce off the heart (or “echo”). Structure. The
  • Transducer captures the reflected wave and sends it to the computer. The computer interprets the echoes in the images of the heart walls and valves.

Fetal echocardiography can help detect fetal heart abnormalities before birth, allowing faster medical or surgical intervention after the baby is born. This improves the chances of survival for babies with severe heart defects after delivery.

When is a fetal echocardiogram necessary?

Not all pregnant mothers need an echocardiogram. A standard prenatal ultrasound examination can provide information on whether the fetal heart has developed in all four chambers, and most pregnant women do not need any additional examination. Conditions that may require fetal echocardiography include:

  •  If a sibling has a congenital heart defect at birth (present at birth)
  • A family history of congenital heart disease (such as parents, aunts, uncles, or grandparents)
  • Chromosomal or genetic abnormalities were found in the fetus
  • If the mother takes certain medications that can cause congenital heart defects, such as antiepileptic drugs or prescription drugs for acne
  • If the woman abuses alcohol or drugs during pregnancy
  • If the woman has diabetes, phenylketonuria Symptoms or tissue diseases connective tissue such as lupus
  • If a woman has rubella during pregnancy
  • Routine prenatal ultrasound may reveal heart abnormalities

Fetal echocardiography is usually performed in the second trimester, around 18 weeks. This test is sometimes done early in pregnancy using a transvaginal ultrasound (the ultrasound probe is inserted into the mother’s vagina), but will be repeated later to confirm any findings.

How is a fetal echocardiogram performed?

Fetal echocardiography is performed by a specially trained pediatric cardiologist or a maternal-fetal specialist (also called a perinatal physician). The test can be performed by abdominal or transvaginal ultrasound.

Abdominal echocardiography

  • In abdominal ultrasound, gel is applied to the abdomen and the ultrasound transducer slides over the gel on the abdomen to create an image.
  • This ultrasound procedure is widely used to evaluate the fetal heart.
  • During the test, you need to lie on the bed and apply lubricating gel to your abdomen.
  •  Move the portable ultrasound transducer gently across the abdomen. The transducers emit high-frequency sound waves, which echo when they pass through the skin of the mother and baby and enter the heart tissue of the fetus. The
  • Echo is reflected on the computer screen and creates an image that represents the area, shape, and structure of the heart.
  •  After this process, the gel-like substance is cleaned off and you can go back to your day.
  • The whole process takes about 30 to 120 minutes, depending on the complexity of the fetal heart.
  • There was no pain or discomfort during the operation.

Transvaginal/ Endovaginal echocardiography

In transvaginal ultrasound, a small ultrasound transducer is inserted into the vagina and placed against the back of the vagina to create an image. Transvaginal ultrasound produces clearer images than abdominal ultrasound and is most often used in early pregnancy.

During the test, the probe will move to obtain images of different positions and structures of the fetal heart. Techniques sometimes used to obtain detailed information about the fetal heart include:

2D (two-dimensional) echocardiography

This technique is used to “see” the actual structure and movement of the structures in the heart. The 2D echo view is tapered on the monitor, allowing real-time observation of the movement of the heart structure. This allows doctors to view and evaluate various structures of the heart at work.

Doppler echocardiography This Doppler technique is used to measure and evaluate the blood flow through the chambers and valves of the heart. The amount of blood pumped in each beat is an indicator of heart function. In addition, Doppler can detect abnormal blood flow in the heart, which can indicate problems such as openings between the heart’s chambers, problems with one or more of the four heart valves, or problems with the heart wall.

Color Doppler

Color Doppler is an enhanced form of Doppler echocardiography. For color Doppler, different colors are used to specify the direction of blood flow. This simplifies the interpretation of Doppler images.

4D echocardiography

This process uses a special probe to obtain a series of images of the fetal heart. You can view photos in different planes at the same time or reconstruct them to get a real image of the heart. This technology helps experts better understand and detect heart conditions.


 


 


 

Tuesday, July 12, 2022

FETAL DOPPLER

 FETAL DOPPLER

Fetal Doppler is a portable ultrasound tool that uses sound waves to listen to the heartbeat of the fetus. Doctors and midwives begin using these medical devices during the first trimester of pregnancy as part of routine prenatal care.  Recently, the fetal Doppler has been sold over the counter (OTC) for home use. However, its use outside of medical settings is discouraged because the long-term health effects are unclear and its use may lead to inaccurate conclusions about the fetus.



The device is usually battery-powered and has a probe that can slide on the abdomen of pregnant women. With hearing aids, you, your partner, friends or family members will be able to hear your baby's heartbeat. If you are interested in knowing your baby's heart rate, some models are also equipped with an LCD screen.

If you want to know how fetal Doppler works, their technique is based on the "Doppler effect", discovered by Austrian mathematician and physicist Christian Doppler. Simply put, the fetal Doppler probe sends ultrasound to the lower abdomen. These waves are reflected from the fetal heart, and Doppler detects the change in frequency and turns into sound.

Although the home model may be relatively new, fetal Doppler ultrasound has existed since it was invented by doctor and scientist Edward H. Hon in the late 1950s. Since then, they have been mainly used by doctors and midwives.

Since the wave emitted by the fetal Doppler is approximately many times higher than the wave emitted by the ultrasound machine, the device can be used safely at home. In addition, fetal Doppler have been approved by the FDA and Health Canada.

Doppler effect

When scattered particles are unstable in the presence of incident waves, the Doppler effect occurs. The frequency of the incident wave is modified according to the direction of movement of the particles.

Biological tissue is composed of multiple dispersed stationary and moving particles (primarily blood cells). When coherent light from the laser enters tissue, there will be a Doppler frequency shift when it encounters moving particles. Therefore, the tissue backscatter signal can be broken down into flow, cell concentration, and cell rate. There are two common methods for laser Doppler perfusion monitoring: one is to keep the fiber probe (transmitting and receiving fiber) in contact with the skin , and the other is to use a scanning mirror (XY) or beam splitter to transmit light to the skin and The received light is guided to a photodetector to form an image. This method usually achieves an interrogation depth of 1mm , where most of the dermal capillaries and blood vessels are located, and the flow velocity in the range of 0.01 to 0.1mm/s can be determined .

WHEN FETAL DOPPLER IS USED

The fetal heart begins to beat around five to six weeks of pregnancy. Around that time, the fetal heartbeat can be detected by transvaginal ultrasound. However, before the heart sound can be detected by fetal Doppler, the heart sound must become a bit louder.

WORKING PRINCIPLE OF FETAL DOPPLER

In general, Fetal Doppler is an ultrasound which uses the sound waves to detect the sounds of the fetus and placenta. Its name comes from how it works, using the Doppler effect. That is, it detects how frequency waves (sound waves in this case) change as the observer approaches or moves away from the sound source. Unlike ultrasound, fetal Doppler only produces sound, not images. The  Fetal Doppler is composed of a probe and a host, which are connected by a cable. To use the device, the doctor will place the gel on the end of the tube. Then move the gel probe around the exposed abdomen of the pregnant woman until it detects the voice of the fetus.

The sound is heard through the speaker of the main unit. Some Doppler’s display the number of beats on the host, while others require the doctor to manually count them.  Fetal heart sounds are usually in the range of 110 to 160 beats per minute. Heart sounds generally change with activity or contraction, so it is important to monitor fetal heart sounds during labor.  Abnormal heart rate may indicate that the baby is not getting enough oxygen or has other problems. When the heart sound exceeds the expected range, the doctor may recommend further tests or an intervention.

Difference Between Fetal Doppler And Ultrasound

Parents who use fetal Doppler at home may not get as good results as an ultrasound examination in a doctor’s office. On the one hand, if you dress too early or put it in the wrong position, you may not hear your heartbeat and worry. Or you may hear the heartbeat (it may be yours or your pulse) and think that everything is fine, but it is not. In addition, the fetal atomic Doppler mainly captures the baby’s heartbeat (although some companies provide 3D and 4D ultrasound, allowing you to view images and videos of the fetus).

The most common medical ultrasound is transvaginal ultrasound, in which a magic wand (called a transducer) is placed in the vagina to send sound waves and collect information. Another popular ultrasound, trans abdominal ultrasound, is performed by moving the device to your stomach, similar to what is done on a home Doppler.

Professional ultrasound can be used for many purposes. Ultrasound can confirm your pregnancy, determine when you are pregnant, listen to the baby’s heartbeat, and detect any abnormalities in the baby. It can also determine the content of the placenta and amniotic fluid, and even the location of the baby’s birth. Professional fetal Doppler can provide detailed information about the baby’s blood flow.

TIPS FOR FINDING FETAL HEARTBEAT WITH DOPPLER

Sound detection on the fetal Doppler does not necessarily mean that it has detected a heartbeat. In fact, the sound you hear may be that of the placenta or your own arteries. When you first use Doppler, distinguishing between them can be a bit confusing. However, by using these techniques, you should be able to recognize your baby’s heartbeat immediately.

#1 Start Low, Go Slow

If you haven’t heard your baby’s heartbeat, it is best to start from the middle of his pubic bone. When you move upward in a gentle swing, be sure to move slowly. Since it can detect a lot of noise, you don’t want to accidentally hover your mouse over the fetal heartbeat. Although you might think that pressing the tube will force you to “close” to the baby, this is not the case. Fishing it lightly is the best way.

#2 Be Generous with the Gel

During your ultrasound examination, you may have noticed that the technician sprays a lot of gel on your lower abdomen because it makes the test easier. Although you may wish to use gel frugally, it helps reduce static electricity. If you are worried about running out, a whole bottle is very helpful. Don’t rub it on your belly like a moisturizer. Instead, apply the sphere to a spot and use the probe to spread it out.  Some people try to use whatever they have on hand, such as lotion. However, this may produce weaker and more static results. If you need a substitute, aloe vera gel or lubricant is the next best choice.

#3 Use Fetal Heartbeat Monitor on a Full Bladder

If you  can try to plan for bladder filling before using fetal Doppler. This helps lift the uterus out of the pelvis. Therefore, the sound can be clearer and easier to detect.

#4 Use 2MHz Probe if Overweight

One factor in determining how easy it is to detect a heartbeat is the shape of the mother. If a mother is overweight, it’s often more difficult to pick up the correct sound. To make it easier, choosing a model with a 2-2.5MHz probe (or buying a replacement probe). Many standard models come with a 3MHz probe, so make sure to look for that specific feature if you’re a plus sized woman.

#5 Pay Attention to the Heart Rate Range

60-80 beats per minute (bpm)   your own heartbeat

120-180 bpm is your baby’s heartbeat

Note that caffeine, alcohol and nicotine may raise the baby’s heart rate . The heartbeat of fetus is much greater than the heart beat of the mother.

#6 Watch for the Whoosh

Whenever you use Doppler, you will hear various sounds, depending on where it is placed. The “hissing”(whooshing) heartbeat sound usually indicates the placenta or movement. Some people also describe this noise as similar to blowing a tree. This should not be confused with the baby’s heartbeat

FETAL DOPPLER TEST RESULTS

It’s very touching to hear your baby’s heartbeat for the first time. Remember that the heartbeat of babies is much faster than that of adults.  If you are in the first trimester and cannot hear your baby’s heartbeat, don’t worry. It is not until 10-12 weeks before Doppler can reliably detect the baby’s heartbeat. Your doctor may try again at your next visit. Ultrasound may give you better results.

The fetal heart rate is between 110,160 beats per minute and can change 5 to 25 times per minute. Your baby’s heart rate will change based on the condition of your uterus. If the heartbeat is out of range, it may mean that your baby is not getting enough oxygen or has other problems.

If your doctor is concerned about your baby’s heartbeat, he or she may recommend a fetal echocardiogram. This is a safe, non-invasive test that can provide a detailed picture of your baby’s heart. It can be helpful to know if your baby has an irregular heartbeat (or arrhythmia) and what type of arrhythmia to receive appropriate treatment.

TROUBLESHOOTING OVERVIEW

Troubles in fetal Doppler

  • No Display on the Screen
  •  Abnormal FHR

Troubleshooting

No display on the screen

1. Press and hold the power button for two seconds to turn on. If the screen has no screen or the Doppler cannot turn on, open the battery cover to check whether the  Lithium battery is properly installed or inserted. If there is no battery or the battery is in poor contact with the metal spring, please reinstall them.

 FHR is abnormal

2. There is neither fetal heart sound nor FHR chart, check whether the  Probe position is correct or the angle is correct, check whether the  Ultrasonic glue is correct;

3. The fetal heart sound can be heard, but the fetal heart diagram is messy or sometimes the display is not good, and the probe may be located on the side of the fetus’ abdomen. Adjust the position of the probe.

 4. The fetal heart rate chart shows the abnormal curve  after the pregnant woman accelerates or changes her posture. Due to the change of the position of the fetal heart, the position of the probe deviated from the position of the fetal heart.

 5. The ultrasound gel becomes less when used for a long time, causing the probe to not be used normally. Add ultrasonic gel in time.

6. Sometimes the fetus will turn downward and the fetus will be in position behind the occiput. Since the fetus's back moves towards the mother’s back, it is more difficult to control. Naturally, the probe cannot be moved to the back of the fetus, so it is sometimes best to place the probe below the navel and in the middle of the abdomen.

7. If the display is off and the frequency is high, it means that the probe is not in the best position.

8. If the fetal heart rate is low or inaccurate after menstrual control, there are two main reasons:

  •  The pregnant woman moves during the test and the Doppler probe is displaced , so the probe is not in the best position.
  • Fetal movement. The detected FCF value is considered invalid.

9. If FHR can be detected during the test, but there is no regular fetal movement heartbeat, you may not have found a suitable position. What is detected at this time is the movement of the pulse or the blood flow of the umbilical cord. If  Still cannot find the best position after careful inspection, the doctor should check further to see if the fetus is in good condition .

Safety concerns with home Doppler

In 2014, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommended against using a fetal Doppler. The FDA says that the only time you should use Doppler is when your doctor uses it, in which case it is medically necessary.

There is no research showing that ultrasound is harmful, but it is better to be cautious when it comes to your baby's health. As a biomedical engineer at the FDA explained, “Ultrasound can slightly heat tissue, and in some cases, it can also create very small bubbles (cavitation) in certain tissues.”

When it comes to some This is even more worrying in the case of fetal Doppler, because some parents may wish to have a fetal Doppler check every day. Use it for a few minutes once a week and it will not cause any harm to your baby. According to the National Health Service (NHS),

At home Fetal Doppler exams can also be potentially harmful because they can give you a false sense of peace of mind.

Following these lines of thought, in 2009, an article in Trusted Sources from the British Medical Journal pointed to the case of a woman who was 38 weeks pregnant. She noticed that the baby was moving less, but found a heartbeat through fetal Doppler, so she did not seek medical help. She's dead. It may have detected her own heartbeat or placental vibrations.

The author said that although stillbirth may be unavoidable, he cautions all parents that fetal Doppler cannot replace the expertise of your physician.

If you suspect that something is wrong with your baby, for example, if his activity is reduced, if he has abnormal drippings or if he has stomach aches, you cannot rely on fetal Doppler at home to detect your baby. Is it good? If you think there is a problem, see a doctor immediately. Even if there is a problem, the baby may have a pounding heartbeat. 




 




 

Monday, July 4, 2022

TREADMILL STRESS ECG

  

TREADMILL STRESS ECG

 

The treadmill EKG, or exercise EKG test, is an EKG record obtained when the heart is exposed to  physical stress such as exercise. When a person is running on a treadmill. Exercise on a treadmill EKG is a useful test that is routinely performed to detect problems that may not be apparent when the heart is at rest.



Treadmill Stress Test

The treadmill EKG stress test is relatively safe, but  running on a treadmill puts a strain on the heart, so there is little risk. Very rare complications are heart attack and  heart arrhythmias, which are more likely to be seen  in  hospital heart laboratories, where patients already suffering from heart disease are tested. Experienced staff will handle emergencies when performing exercise EKG on  a treadmill.

Purpose of doing a Treadmill Stress ECG Test:

The treadmill exercise EKG test helps doctors  see how well the heart is functioning during exercise by analysing the EKG wave patterns recorded while running on the treadmill. Many heart problems are invisible and can be overlooked when EKG is rested. These potential abnormalities manifest themselves when the heart is exposed to the physical stress of movement.

How long does the Treadmill Stress ECG Test take?

It depends on a person’s health. In general, a person with a normal healthy heart and strength can run longer on a treadmill and reach  more difficult levels with higher treadmill tilt. However, the total process of  test preparation, test execution, and post-test recovery phase  should  not exceed 45 minutes in total.

 Will patients feel any pain or discomfort?

The test is non-invasive, but it is normal  to feel tired or short of breath during a strenuous run on a treadmill. However, if you  develop  chest discomfort or are very out of breath, it may indicate an underlying heart problem that is also manifested in electrocardiographic stress records. 

What will happen to blood pressure and heart rate during the Treadmill Test?

Both  blood pressure and heart rate  rise normally during exercise and  are monitored and recorded by a computer during the test. The underlying heart disease may manifest itself as an abnormally fast heart rate or a drop in blood pressure during the test.

What will the Treadmill Stress ECG show?

Exercise EKG records may show abnormalities that indicate abnormal heart function if the heart does not receive sufficient oxygen during exercise.

Why is the stress ECG test on the  Treadmill useful?

Exercise ECG testing on a treadmill is particularly helpful in identifying and diagnosing  coronary artery occlusion. If your heart muscle is blocked or narrowed, you may not receive enough oxygen during exercise. This may not be detected and many patients do not even experience the symptoms of chest pain (angina) until it is too late. These abnormalities are often not detected by the resting ECG, but appear during the treadmill movement ECG.

 How do I prepare for a stress ECG test on a treadmill?

· Do not eat or drink for 23 hours before the test to avoid nausea when  exercising hard with a heavy diet.

· If you have diabetes, you should contact your doctor for specific medication instructions.

· Check with your doctor first to see if you are taking  heart medications or erectile dysfunction medications such as Viagra or Cialis.

· Your doctor may ask you to discontinue certain medications 1-2 days before the exercise ECG test on the treadmill. This helps ensure more accurate results during the exercise EKG test on the treadmill.

· The test requires loose and comfortable clothing and running shoes. Men are asked to take off their shirts, and women usually wear bras and light blouses or dresses during the test.



What happens during a stress ECG test on a  Treadmill?

· To prepare the skin for the electrodes, some areas of the chest and shoulders need to be washed with alcohol and detergent. Men may need to shave the chest area to keep the electrodes  in place.

· Electrodes are placed on the chest and shoulders to monitor the electrical activity of the heart. Blood pressure is also  monitored by wrapping the cuff around your arm.

· You will be shown how to get on the treadmill and  use the  railings to maintain  balance. The treadmill starts slowly,  then gradually increases in speed and tilt.

· Blood pressure is monitored every few minutes and EKG waveforms are carefully monitored for abnormal changes.

 Can I stop the treadmill exercise test if I feel sick?

 Symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath, chest pain, and leg fatigue should be reported immediately during the test. Exercise on a treadmill The EKG test ends if you are too tired to continue, or if you experience symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath,  or chest pain. Testing should continue until maximum heart rate is reached or  the exercise EKG shows abnormal changes on the computer monitor.

 What to do on a treadmill after a stress ECG test?

 You may be asked to sit in a chair or lie in bed while your blood pressure and electrocardiogram are being monitored until recovery.

Is Treadmill Exercise EKG Test Accurate in Detecting Underlying Coronary Artery Disease?

 Like most tests, the exercise ECG test on a treadmill is not 100 percent. Both false positives and false positives are expected. The results are interpreted by an experienced cardiologist along with  other clinical findings such as the person’s lifestyle, family history, and cholesterol levels.

 When can I get the results of the treadmill exercise ECG test?

The report will be sent to a cardiologist for review. It may take several days before you call  to receive and confirm the report.

 

 

MEDICAL ETHICS

 MEDICAL ETHICS



1) Physicians must be committed to providing qualified medical care, compassionate and respectful of human dignity and rights.

2) Physicians must adhere to professional standards, be honest in all professional interactions, and endeavour to report to the appropriate entity those physicians who have defects of character or ability or who were involved in fraud or deception.

3) Physicians must abide by the law and recognize the responsibility to pursue those requirements in that are contrary to the best interests of the patient.

4)  Physicians must respect the rights of patients, colleagues, and  other healthcare professionals, and must protect the trust and privacy of patients within the limits of the law.

5) Physicians must continue to learn, apply and advance scientific knowledge, maintain a commitment to medical education, provide relevant information to patients, colleagues, and the public, obtain consultations and use the talents of other professionals of health when instructs.

6) When providing adequate patient care, doctors should be free to choose to see a doctor, whom to contact, and the environment in which provides medical care, except for emergencies.

7)Physicians must recognize their responsibility to participate in activities that help improve the community and improve public health.

8) In caring for patients, physicians must hold their responsibilities to patients paramount.

9)Doctors must help everyone to access medical services.