Next Steps
Environmental Constraints
- Reflecting on the several chemicals used in producing diapers, there are several alternatives to the commonly used diapers presented above. The customer can look at these diapers as they are more eco-friendly and safer for patient use (Lina, 2019).
- Bambo Nature: Eco-friendly paper material from controlled forestry, no chlorine or bleach used, non-toxic inks, and 75% biodegradable.
- Mama Bear (Amazon): A more affordable diaper that is free of phthalate-containing fragrances and chlorine pulp.
- Honest Company: The fluff pulp comes from sustainable forestry and no bleach is used in the manufacturing process
- The customer should be looking into Totally Chlorine Free (TCF) pulp as well as biodegradable diapers (Lina, 2019).
Economic Constraints
- Our anticipated price for a sensor is roughly $3 USD. For a patient who requires several diaper changes per night, these costs could add up, as a new sensor should be used each time there is a diaper change.
- For a smartphone (or device with NFC tag capability), we recommend purchasing an inexpensive device.
- One smartphone that could be used is the Samsung Galaxy A12 that costs $168. This is a relatively cheap smartphone and is RFC/NFID compatible.
Signal Constraints
- Extend NFC signal range
- Explore options for locations of phone or alternative NFC communication needs
- Further testing to ensure resistance threshold is suitable
- Ensure privacy is maintained – the signal cannot contain any Protected Health Information (PHI)
Ethical Constraints
- Ensure Protected Health Information (PHI) is kept private
- Ensure signal is discrete and not obvious to others in ward to avoid notifying unnecessary parties.
- Test to ensure CLTE-MW substrate and other sensor components are biocompatible
- Perform material and chemical characterizations testing of component materials – in vitro and in vivo
- Test for cytotoxicity, sensitization, and irritation reactions of sensor with skin
- Test for potential of NFC interfering with other devices in hospital setting (i.e. pacemakers)
Access Constraints
- Once product is FDA approved, ensure insurance coverage from providers including Medicaid and Medicare
- Make modifications for non-hospital setting, where personal smartphones may be utilized and HIPAA requirements are still upheld.
- Write a clear instruction manual to aid elderly caregivers in understanding programming Smartphone to device
- Ensure equitable access in communities that may not have access to Smartphones