IV Drip Monitor
Medical device, 2024. A step towards independent patients.
A weight-based IV drip monitor that alerts nurses before a drip runs dry, designed by Anushka Dasgupta after research with nurses, doctors and patients.
The problem
IV therapy needs continuous visual monitoring, so attendants or nurses have to keep watching the drip.
This became glaringly evident during my own battle with dengue, and it prompted an IV monitoring system that lifts the burden of constant vigilance.
Potential complications
Changing an IV drip late can lead to:
- Air embolism
- Clotting
- Infection
- Tissue damage
- Medication errors
- Dehydration
Existing solutions
- Tmat IV Monitoring: small, easy to install, discontinued
- Drip-O-Meter: open-source opto-electronic monitor
- IV Drip Rate Controller: monitors and controls flow
- Nouvo SafetySet: closed catheter, two infusions
Survey insights
Hospital visits, nurse focus groups, doctor interviews and surveys with patients and attendants.
- 87% of nurses rely on attendants for drip updates
- 72% missed an IV change at least once in a shift
- 81% of attendants feel anxious watching IV bottles
- 76% of doctors support real-time alerts
- 69% of patients want a visible drip status
- 92% say a compact monitor would improve safety
Voices from the ward
I kept asking the nurse, 'खाली हो गया क्या?' (is it empty?). A monitor would be so helpful.
Megha, patient
If it can বুলি দেই (call over) when it's over, that's all we need.
Bimola, nurse
A timely বিপ (alert) when the drip ends can save both time and ভুল (mistakes).
Alok, doctor
Weight study to ideation
Weighing full and empty bottles gave a percentage relationship; weight sensors now track the fluid and trigger alerts.
Final design
First-of-its-kind smart, weight-based, real-time monitor. Automated alerts, fewer errors, better care.