Remote sensors to keep an eye on vital signs

Wednesday June 23rd, 2010

Scientists at Sussex University, UK, have developed a new type of electrical field sensor that can detect a patient's heartbeat from up to a metre away.

Called Electric Potential Sensors, the devices are set to make monitoring a patient's heartbeat easier and less invasive than ever before, say the team.

Lead scientist, Dr Robert Prance, says these are the first remote sensors of their kind. They allow health care practitioners to "develop patient-friendly, self-administered systems to monitor their vital signs with the minimum impact on their mobility", he said.

Electric Potential Sensors can also be used to detect muscle signals and eye movements. With further development, they may able to detect brain and nerve-fibre signals.

"These sensors are the result of a sustained research programme at Sussex," explained Dr Prance. "For the first time we are able to detect electrical signals from the body passively, without making physical contact, and in familiar environments such as the home or hospital."

He reports that commercial interest is building quickly. The device was created with financial support from a South East Health Technology Alliance grant.

The team are now collaborating with the Berkshire-based firm PassivSystems, who create "in-home smart technology". If successful, the resulting product could be used to help elderly and frail people live independently in their homes.

David Parry of the South East Health Technology Alliance commented: "Remote telecare can play a crucial role in helping people to remain in their homes, but the current Passive InfraRed sensors require movement to detect a person's presence and cannot easily differentiate between multiple people in a room.

"The sensors developed by the University of Sussex have incredible potential."

Tags: Heart Health | Nursing & Midwifery | UK News

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