Point-of-care workstation/cart with smartphone interface

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

0001This application claims benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/242,375, filed Oct. 16, 2015, the contents of such application being incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

0002This invention relates generally to a point-of-care cart assembly configured for use by a medical professional in connection with delivering medical care to a patient, a workstation assembly configured to provide secure access to a controlled inventory of stored items, and a method for providing secure access to a controlled inventory of stored items. In particular aspects, this invention relates to systems and methods for providing a Point-Of-Care (POC) cart or workstation with an interface via a mobile computing device; specifically, the POC cart or workstation communicates with the mobile computing device to allow a user to control peripheral devices on the POC cart or workstation, and to allow access to database information through the POC cart or workstation.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

0003It is beneficial for Point-Of-Care (POC) carts or workstations to include computer access such as for connecting to a hospital network. Accordingly, there remains a need for improved POC carts or workstations in terms of the security of access to the hospital network if the authorized user leaves the POC cart or workstation unattended.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

0004The drawing figures depict one or more implementations in accord with the present teachings, by way of example only, not by way of limitation. In the figures, like reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements.

0005<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> shows a POC cart/workstation communicating with a mobile device via an interface module to control an inventory bin module.

0006<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> shows the inventory bin module connected to the interface module which includes an interface board and a single board computer.

0007<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> shows a block diagram of the interface module including the interface board and the single board computer.

0008<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> shows flow diagram of communication between the mobile device, the interface module and the inventory bin module.

0009<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> shows block diagram of the mobile application running on the mobile device.

0010<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> shows a flowchart for controlling the bin module in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>.

0011<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> shows a POC cart/workstation communicating (wired or wirelessly) with a mobile device via the interface module in order to communicate with peripheral devices on the cart/workstation.

0012<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> shows a flowchart for controlling the POC cart/workstation in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>.

0013<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> shows a POC cart/workstation communicating (wired or wirelessly) with a mobile device via the interface module to control a medical device.

0014<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> shows a flowchart for controlling the medical device in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

0015One example includes a point-of-care cart assembly configured for use by a medical professional in connection with delivering medical care to a patient. The point-of-care cart assembly including a mobile point-of-care cart configured to be positioned and repositioned for use by the medical professional. The mobile point-of-care cart also being configured to support at least one peripheral device facilitating the input of medical data specific to the patient for delivery to a remote database server. The mobile point-of-care care also including an interface module mounted to the mobile point-of-care cart. The interface module being configured for electronic communication with the at least one peripheral device. The interface module also being configured for electronic communication with a mobile computing device. When the mobile computing device is proximal to the mobile point-of-care cart, the interface module is configured to receive input from the medical professional via the at least one peripheral device, the input including an access request for the mobile computing device to access medical data stored at the remote database server or a storage request for the mobile computing device to store new medical data in the remote database server, transmit the input to the mobile computing device for transfer to the remote database server, and receive, from the mobile computing device, the requested medical data from the remote database server or a confirmation that the new medical data is stored in the remote database server.

0016One example includes a workstation assembly configured to provide secure access to a controlled inventory of stored items. The workstation including a bin module including a plurality of bins each configured to store one or more of the stored items. The bin module also including an electronic lock associated with each of the plurality of bins. The workstation also including an interface module coupled to the bin module and configured for electronic communication with at least one peripheral device facilitating the input of data specific to the stored items. The interface module also being configured for electronic communication with a mobile computing device. When the mobile computing device is proximal to the workstation, the interface module is configured to receive input from a user via the at least one peripheral device, the input including an access request to access the stored items in the bin module, transmit the input to the mobile computing device for transfer to a remote database server, receive, from the mobile computing device, instructions to unlock the stored items in the bin module, transmit at least one control signal to the bin module to unlock the electronic lock of a selected bin of the plurality of bins, and transmit inventory information associated with the selected bin to the mobile computing device for transfer to the remote database server.

0017One example includes a point-of-care cart assembly configured for use by a medical professional in connection with delivering medical care to a patient. The point-of-care cart assembly including a mobile point-of-care cart configured to be positioned and repositioned for use by the medical professional. The mobile point-of-care cart also being configured to support at least one peripheral device facilitating the input of medical data specific to the patient for delivery to a remote database server and at least one medical apparatus having an electronic sensor. The point-of-care cart assembly also including an interface module mounted to the mobile point-of-care cart. The interface module being configured for electronic communication with the at least one peripheral device and the medical apparatus, and the interface module also being configured for electronic communication with a mobile computing device. When the mobile computing device is proximal to the mobile point-of-care cart, the interface module is configured to receive input from a user via the at least one peripheral device, the input including a request to control the medical apparatus or to receive data from the medical apparatus, transmit the input to the mobile computing device for transfer to the remote database server, receive, from the mobile computing device, instructions to control the medical apparatus or to receive data from the medical apparatus, transmit at least one control signal to the medical apparatus or to receive data from the medical apparatus, receive data from the medical apparatus, and transmit the data to the mobile computing device for transfer to the remote database server.

0018One example includes a method for providing secure access to a controlled inventory of stored items of a workstation including a bin module having a plurality of bins each configured to store one or more of the stored items. The bin module also including an electronic lock associated with each of the plurality of bins. The workstation also including an interface module coupled for communication to the bin module and configured for electronic communication with at least one peripheral device facilitating the input of data specific to the stored items. The interface module also being configured for electronic communication with a mobile computing device. The method including when the mobile computing device is proximal to the workstation, receiving, by the interface module, input from a user via the at least one peripheral device, the input including an access request to access the stored items in the bin module, transmitting, by the interface module, the input to the mobile computing device for transfer to a remote database server, receiving, by the interface module, from the mobile computing device, instructions to unlock the stored items in the bin module, transmitting, by the interface module, at least one control signal to the bin module to unlock the electronic lock of a selected bin of the plurality of bins, and transmitting, by the interface module, inventory information associated with the selected bin to the mobile computing device for transfer to the remote database server.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

0019In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth by way of examples in order to provide a thorough understanding of the relevant teachings. However, it should be apparent that the present teachings may be practiced without such details. In other instances, well known methods, procedures, components, and/or circuitry have been described at a relatively high-level, without detail, in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the present teachings.

0020Shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a Point-Of-Care (POC) cart/workstation <b>104</b> that may or may not include wheels <b>106</b>. When the POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> includes wheels <b>106</b>, it is considered a mobile cart that can be moved by the user. When the POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> does not include wheels <b>106</b>, it is considered a static workstation that is not typically moved by the user.

0021POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> is typically for use by a user (e.g. nurse <b>100</b> or other caregiver) in a medical setting (e.g. hospital). In some embodiments, POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> includes peripheral devices such as keyboard/monitor <b>108</b>, a mouse (not shown), and possibly other standard peripheral devices e.g., printer, barcode scanner, etc. (also not shown). POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> generally provides an interface for access to data on hospital network <b>114</b> and/or control over other peripheral devices (e.g. inventory bin module <b>112</b>) through wired or wireless interfaces.

0022A user, such as nurse <b>100</b>, is generally able to utilize the POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> to connect to remote database server <b>116</b> which includes database programs such as an Electronic Medication Administration Record (eMAR) system for accessing patient medical records. This information can be retrieved from database server <b>116</b> and displayed on the monitor <b>108</b> of POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>. In addition to retrieving data from the database, nurse <b>100</b> can also input information (e.g. patient information) through the keyboard/mouse/scanner, and send this information to server <b>116</b> to update the database.

0023In the past, conventional POC carts/workstations were controlled by a cumbersome personal computer (PC) such as a laptop that a nurse would directly connected to the POC cart/workstation. When left unattended, however, these laptops posed a security risk allowing unauthorized individuals access to the hospital network and control over connected peripheral devices (e.g. inventory bin module <b>112</b>).

0024In order to avoid this situation, in the present system, the laptop is replaced by a mobile computing device such as smartphone <b>102</b>. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, nurse <b>100</b> (as do most nurses) carries a mobile device (e.g. smartphone, personal digital assistant, etc.). Rather than carrying around a cumbersome laptop and connecting this laptop to the POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>, a mobile device such as smartphone <b>102</b> is used to provide more seamless and convenient control over the POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>.

0025For example, smartphone <b>102</b> may automatically connect wirelessly to the hospital network via wireless paths <b>122</b> and <b>124</b>. This connection may be a WIFI, Bluetooth or other equivalent wireless connection. In some embodiments, smartphone <b>102</b> is plugged into a physical port on the interface module <b>110</b> of the POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> through a physical connection such as a micro-USB cable, Lightning cable, etc. The cable may convey one or more types of signals, such as digital video signals, USB signals, etc. between smartphone <b>102</b> and an interface module <b>110</b> which are then relayed to the keyboard/monitor <b>108</b> and other peripheral devices.

0026Generally, smartphone <b>102</b> is capable of sending video signals through the wired or wireless connection to an external display (e.g. the monitor). This may be the same image that is being displayed on the phone itself. This process is called mirroring, and is beneficial in that nurse <b>100</b> can view images from his/her smartphone <b>102</b> at POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> without having to remove smartphone <b>102</b> from his/her pocket.

0027In order to control the peripheral devices on POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>, smartphone <b>102</b> communicates with interface module <b>110</b> that is mounted on POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>. One or more peripheral devices such as the monitor/keyboard <b>108</b>, mouse (not shown), scanner (not shown), printer (not shown), bioID reader (not shown) may also be plugged into (or wirelessly connected to) interface module <b>110</b>. This enables standard wired or wireless peripheral devices to be used on the POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>, thereby reducing cost and simplifying support.

0028For example, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> shows physical cable <b>118</b> connecting smartphone <b>102</b> to interface module <b>110</b>. Cable <b>118</b> may carry one or more types of signals. In one embodiment, cable <b>118</b> carries HDMI video signals that are routed by interface module <b>110</b> from smartphone <b>102</b> to monitor <b>108</b>. In certain embodiments, cable <b>118</b> carries USB signals that are routed from one of more of the keyboard and mouse to smartphone <b>102</b>. In certain embodiments, the interface module <b>110</b> may contain a USB hub to provide power to the peripheral devices.

0029In another example, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> shows smartphone <b>102</b> connected to the interface module <b>110</b> via a wireless channel <b>120</b>. In certain embodiments, the wireless channel is used to carry the signals that are routed via the interface module to monitor <b>108</b> and other peripheral devices of POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>.

0030In addition to standard peripheral devices (e.g. monitor/keyboard <b>108</b>, mouse, printer), POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> may also include non-standard peripheral devices in the form of medithal equipment (e.g. medical devices, inventory storage devices, etc.). An example of this is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> where POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> includes an inventory bin module <b>112</b> that includes multiple bins (e.g. drawers) for storing medical inventory (e.g. medication, needles, etc.). Each bin includes an electrically actuated lock (e.g. a solenoid that actuates a latch) for automatically locking and unlocking the bins, thereby allowing/preventing access to the inventory.

0031In an example of operation, smartphone <b>102</b> automatically connects to the interface module <b>110</b> via a wireless link when nurse <b>100</b> is close enough in proximity to POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> (e.g. within Bluetooth range). This may be a distance of 1-3 meters. Once smartphone <b>102</b> is connected to interface module <b>110</b>, it sends a video image to the monitor and accepts input from the keyboard and any other peripheral devices attached to the connection module (e.g. the smartphone functionality is mirrored on the POC cart/workstation).

0032Interface module <b>110</b> could include firmware to proactively connect to mobile device through, for example, Bluetooth pairing. Alternately the mobile device could contain an application that connects via the wireless network to a remote web application, or database server <b>116</b> which then connects via wireless or wired connection to interface module <b>110</b>. In this example, remote server <b>116</b> may interact with both interface module <b>110</b> and smartphone <b>102</b>.

0033In addition to connecting to POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>, smartphone <b>102</b> connects to server <b>116</b>, accesses database information, and displays this database information (e.g. patient information) on monitor <b>108</b>. This allows the nurse <b>100</b> to interact with the hospital network database by sending and receiving information to/from the server.

0034In order to provide this functionality, smartphone <b>102</b> executes a mobile application which provides control buttons for controlling the peripheral devices. For example, the mobile application may have the functionality that allows nurse <b>100</b> to communicate and control inventory bin module <b>112</b> to unlock or lock certain bins for access to medical inventory such as medication.

0035One benefit to this configuration, is increased security to both the network information and control over the peripheral devices. For example, when nurse <b>100</b> walks away from the POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>, smartphone <b>102</b> eventually goes out of range and loses communication with the system. At this point, POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> cannot access the database or control the inventory bin module (e.g. the bins are automatically locked when communication to the phone is lost), because the POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> relies, on the processing power of smartphone <b>102</b> to perform these tasks. Thus, unlike conventional systems, the present system does not provide a risk of unauthorized access to the network or unauthorized control over the peripheral devices such as inventory bin module <b>112</b>, because smartphone <b>102</b> is no longer able to control POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>.

0036In some examples, nurse <b>100</b> may place smartphone <b>102</b> in a docking cradle (not shown) or connect smartphone <b>102</b> to the system through a cable. In this example, security is still maintained, because when nurse <b>100</b> unplugs smartphone <b>102</b> when leaving, POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> cannot access the database or control the inventory bin module. For example, the bins are automatically locked when the connection to the smartphone is lost, because the POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> relies on the processing of smartphone <b>102</b>.

0037In some examples, smartphone <b>102</b> may store certain information in its internal memory. For example, smartphone <b>102</b> may store instructions that allow communication with and use of the monitor <b>108</b>, keyboard, and other peripheral devices without simultaneous connection to the network. In some examples, smartphone <b>102</b> may store instructions that allow at least one function of the system to be used when smartphone <b>102</b> is not connected to the network. For example, smartphone <b>102</b> may allow nurse <b>100</b> to open an actuated bin of inventory bin module <b>112</b> to obtain medication for a patient and the then store a record of the access and medication retrieval until connection with the database is restored, whereupon the record is sent to the database server <b>116</b> via network <b>114</b>.

0038As described above, the POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> may include a keyboard and monitor, thereby providing a large display and an input device for interaction with the programs running on the smartphone or interaction with programs running on the network, such as the eMAR. In order to make the system convenient, each room in a hospital may be equipped with a keyboard/monitor <b>108</b> and interface module <b>110</b>, thereby enabling nurse <b>100</b> to have a large display and input device in each room without having to carry a computer or laptop with them from room to room. When the nurse <b>100</b> enters the room, smartphone <b>102</b> connects to the POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> in close proximity. When the nurse <b>100</b> leaves the room, the smartphone <b>102</b> goes out of communication range and disconnects from POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>. The remaining monitor and keyboard on POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> do not present a risk of unauthorized access to the network, because they cannot access the network or control the peripheral devices without the aid of smartphone <b>102</b>.

0039In certain examples, smartphone <b>102</b> does not store any sensitive data in the local memory. When smartphone <b>102</b> leaves the hospital and goes out of range of the hospital wireless network, there is no risk that sensitive information is carried with the smartphone <b>102</b>. This makes the system compliant with requirements of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

0040In certain examples, the software running on the smartphone <b>102</b> may require an initial login and authentication process when the user first enters the hospital and the smartphone <b>102</b> connects to the hospital network. In certain examples, this may be accomplished by prompting for a username and password. In other examples, this may be accomplished by connecting to a biometric peripheral device such as a fingerprint reader attached to the interface module (not shown). In other embodiments, the biometric reader may be integrated into smartphone <b>102</b> itself. In either scenario, the user is required to interact with the biometric reader or login procedure which transmits the input to an authentication service over the network <b>114</b>. If the authentication service confirms that the user (e.g. the nurse) is authorized, the smartphone <b>102</b> is enabled for operation within the hospital to communicate with the network and control peripheral devices of the POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>.

0041In certain examples, smartphone <b>102</b> remains in active communication with the network regardless of whether it is communicating with POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>. For example, at the beginning of the work shift, nurse <b>100</b> could authenticate smartphone <b>102</b> to a remote authentication server (not shown). Interface module <b>110</b> can access the same remote authentication server via an application program interface (API) and receive information that informs the firmware of interface module <b>110</b> of the level of access granted to the authenticated user.

0042This eliminates the need for the nurse <b>100</b> to log-in each time they use anew POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> (i.e. nurse doesn't have to authenticate himself when walking from room to room). If multiple POC carts/workstations <b>104</b> are positioned around a facility such as a hospital, it allows nurse <b>100</b> to have the benefit of a large display and keyboard within a few steps of their location without having to carry around a laptop, tablet, or other bulky computer device or to push POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> with them. In certain examples, the nurse may interact directly through smartphone <b>102</b> to access the database, and then seamlessly transition to the larger display and keyboard interface by walking up to a nearby POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>.

0043As described above, POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> may include both standard peripheral devices such as keyboard/monitor <b>108</b>, and non-standard peripheral devices such as inventory bin module <b>112</b>, which are all connected to interface module <b>110</b>. Details of interface module <b>110</b> are shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> to include a single board computer <b>200</b> for performing the processing and control over the peripheral devices, and an interface board <b>202</b> for interfacing single board computer <b>200</b> with the peripheral devices (e.g. bin module <b>112</b>). Alternatively, interface board <b>202</b> of interface module <b>110</b> may be a functional section of single board computer <b>200</b> rather than a physically separate board.

0044Generally, single board computer <b>200</b> receives instructions from smartphone <b>102</b> and sends data (e.g. control signals) to the peripheral devices. For example, smartphone <b>102</b> may instruct single board computer <b>200</b> to open a specific bin on bin module <b>112</b> to dispense medication to a nurse. In response to this instruction, single board computer <b>200</b> may send a control signal to bin module <b>112</b> via interface board <b>202</b>, instructing bin module <b>112</b> to unlock the specified bin <b>204</b>.

0045A more detailed illustration of interface module <b>110</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>. For example, interface board <b>202</b> may include a central processing unit (CPU) <b>306</b> that controls a universal serial bus (USB) bridge <b>300</b> via serial bus <b>310</b>, controls bin module drivers <b>302</b> via data bus <b>312</b>, controls bin module sensors <b>304</b> via data bus <b>314</b>, and communicates with the single board computer <b>200</b> via serial data bus <b>308</b>. Interface board <b>202</b> also includes port <b>316</b> for sending control signals to lock/unlock bins of the inventory bin module <b>112</b>, and port <b>318</b> for receiving sensed information (i.e. open/closed status, presence/absence of inventory, etc.) for the bins of the inventory bin module <b>112</b>. Although not shown, single board computer <b>200</b> includes components that provide communication with smartphone <b>102</b>, processing of data, and control over peripheral devices. These components include but are not limited to a processor, input/output ports/interfaces, memory devices, and a wireless transceiver.

0046<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> shows another illustration of interface module <b>110</b> communicating with inventory bin module <b>112</b> and a mobile application <b>408</b> running on smartphone <b>102</b>. In order to perform communication with smartphone <b>102</b>, and control, inventory bin module <b>112</b>, single board computer <b>200</b> and interface board <b>202</b> execute various software programs. For example, single board computer <b>200</b> includes a processor such as an ARM Cortex-A8. This processor may run an operating system such as Debian (Linux) that supports an event driven architecture such as Node.js for supporting real time web applications, a software for writing reusable application logic such as Hapi.js, and software for communicating with a web server. Similarly, interface board <b>202</b> includes a microcontroller such as Intel's <b>8051</b> that runs a real-time-operating-system (RTOS) and a C-language based application for controlling bin module <b>112</b>.

0047During operation, mobile application <b>408</b> of smartphone <b>102</b> communicates with single board computer <b>200</b>. This communication can be performed directly through a wired connection or wirelessly through Bluetooth. Alternatively, this communication can be performed through local area network (LAN) <b>406</b> via wired or wireless connections <b>402</b> and <b>404</b>.

0048A more detailed explanation of the mobile application software running on smartphone <b>102</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>. For example, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> shows that the software <b>408</b> includes a primary framework <b>500</b> that includes a web application <b>508</b> (i.e. a software application where the user interface runs in a web browser), native application wrapper <b>518</b>, platform <b>510</b>, Ionic framework <b>502</b> and Cordova framework <b>504</b>. During operation, web application <b>508</b> runs on platform <b>510</b> and uses the native application wrapper <b>518</b> as well as the Ionic framework <b>502</b> and Cordova framework <b>504</b> to communicate with web service <b>506</b> via an HTTP request <b>512</b>.

0049Prior to nurse <b>100</b> being able to access bin module <b>112</b> to retrieve medical inventory such as medication, smartphone <b>102</b> performs certain steps to authenticate itself and then communicate with interfaced module <b>110</b>. These steps are illustrated in the flowchart of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>.

0050In step <b>600</b>, when nurse <b>100</b> is in proximity to POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>, smartphone <b>102</b> is connected (wired or wirelessly) to the single board computer of interface module <b>110</b>. Upon connection, smartphone <b>102</b> launches a mobile application (step <b>602</b>) that is configured to view bin inventory and control bin module <b>112</b>. Once mobile application is launched, smartphone <b>102</b> performs authentication (step <b>604</b>) of the nurse <b>100</b>. In step <b>606</b>, smartphone <b>102</b> determines if nurse <b>100</b> is authenticated. If nurse <b>100</b> is not authenticated, then smartphone <b>102</b> terminates the session in step <b>608</b>. If, however, nurse <b>100</b> is authenticated, then smartphone <b>102</b> executes step <b>610</b> and displays the mobile application control features to control the bin module.

0051It should be noted that optionally (steps <b>612</b> and <b>618</b>), smartphone <b>102</b> may mirror the display of the mobile application control features on the monitor of POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> and receive input from the keyboard of POC car/workstation <b>104</b>. This, however, is not required. The nurse can control the bin module <b>112</b> directly via the display of smartphone <b>102</b>.

0052In step <b>614</b>, smartphone <b>102</b> receives input from nurse <b>100</b> requesting access to specific inventory stored in bin module <b>112</b>. Smartphone <b>102</b> determines which bin the inventory is located in, and sends a control signal (step <b>616</b>) to the single board computer of interface module <b>110</b>. In step <b>620</b>, the single board computer sends a control signal via the interface board to a selected one of the bins that contains the requested medical inventory. This control signal controls the electric lock of that bin to unlock, thereby providing access to the inventory (e.g. medication).

0053In order to keep track of inventory in the bin, the single board computer (step <b>622</b>) detects (e.g. using sensors) the amount and type of inventory still remaining in the unlocked bin after the nurse gains access. In step <b>624</b>, this updated medical inventory is sent to the smartphone <b>102</b> and then to server <b>116</b> in order to update the patient database.

0054For example, the bin inventory could be tracked using a sensor e.g., radio frequency identification (RFID) receiver attached to the bin, the cart work surface, or to each bin drawer. In this example, each inventory item would have an RFID tag attached.

0055In other examples, inventory (e.g. medication) stored in the bin module could be subject to business rules in the workflow that requires each user (e.g. each nurse) to perform pre- and/or post-counts of a bin drawer contents each time it is opened. These counts are manually entered (e.g. scanned, typed, etc.) into POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> and then transmitted to remote database <b>116</b>. If a discrepancy occurs, an audit entry is automatically made and the bin can be locked from any additional access until the discrepancy is resolved by an authorized administrator. Users with sufficient rights may override the discrepancy lockout, and the override is recorded as an auditable transaction. Mobile alerts may also be generated and sent to administrators when such a discrepancy occurs.

0056Although <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> shows a POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> having a medical inventory bin module <b>112</b>, it is noted that the POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> does not require one. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>, the POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> may simply have a monitor/keyboard <b>108</b> and an interface board <b>110</b>. This type of POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> allows the nurse <b>100</b> to access information from the database of server <b>116</b>, and update database information.

0057For example, nurse <b>100</b> may require information about a certain patient. When nurse <b>100</b> walks up to POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>, smartphone <b>102</b> automatically connects to interface module <b>110</b> and server <b>116</b>. This allows smartphone <b>102</b> to mirror medical information on monitor <b>108</b>, and allow the nurse to access and possible manipulate (e.g. update) this medical information using the keyboard on POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>. In this example, nurse <b>100</b> does not need to take smartphone <b>102</b> out of his/her pocket.

0058Prior to nurse <b>100</b> being able to access the database to retrieve or update medical information, the smartphone <b>102</b> performs certain steps to authenticate itself and then communicate with interface module <b>110</b>. These steps are illustrated in the flowchart of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>.

0059In step <b>800</b>, when nurse <b>100</b> is in proximity to POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>, smartphone <b>102</b> is connected (wired or wirelessly) to the single board computer of interface module <b>110</b>. Upon connection, smartphone <b>102</b> launches a mobile application (step <b>802</b>) that is designed to view and access database information. Once the mobile application is launched, smartphone <b>102</b> performs authentication (step <b>804</b>) of nurse <b>100</b>. In step <b>806</b>, smartphone <b>102</b> determines if nurse <b>100</b> is authenticated. If nurse <b>100</b> is not authenticated, then smartphone <b>102</b> terminates the session in step <b>808</b>. If, however, nurse <b>100</b> is authenticated, then smartphone <b>102</b> executes step <b>810</b> and launches a mobile application to communicate with the database server <b>116</b>.

0060In step <b>812</b>, smartphone <b>102</b> mirrors the mobile application onto monitor <b>108</b> of POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>. In step <b>814</b>, nurse <b>100</b> is able to input information to the mobile application via the keyboard of POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>. This information can be requests for database information or new information for updating the database. In step <b>816</b>, POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> sends this input to smartphone <b>120</b>, and in step <b>818</b> the smartphone <b>102</b> sends this input to database server <b>116</b>. This process allows nurse <b>100</b> to access database information specific to a patient, and update the patients information.

0061In another example, POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> can include other peripheral devices such as medical devices. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>, for example, POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>, in addition to monitor/keyboard <b>108</b> and interface board <b>110</b>, may include a medical device such as electrocardiogram (EKG) machine <b>900</b>. This type of POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> allows nurse <b>100</b> to control and/or monitor the EKG machine from POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> and upload the EKG results to database server <b>116</b>.

0062For example, nurse may wish to perform an EKG on a patient. When nurse <b>100</b> walks up to POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>, smartphone <b>102</b> is connected to interface module <b>110</b> and server <b>116</b>. This allows smartphone <b>102</b>, for example, to mirror EKG controls on monitor <b>108</b>, and allow the nurse to manipulate the EKG machine <b>900</b> using the keyboard on the POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>. In this case, the nurse <b>100</b> does not need to take the smartphone <b>102</b> out of their pocket.

0063Prior to nurse <b>100</b> being able to control the EKG machine, smartphone <b>102</b> must perform certain steps to authenticate itself and then communicate with interface module <b>110</b>. These steps are illustrated in the flowchart of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref>.

0064In step <b>1000</b>, when nurse <b>100</b> is in proximity to POC cart/workstation <b>104</b>, smartphone <b>102</b> is connected (wired or wirelessly) to the single board computer of interface module <b>110</b>. Upon connection, smartphone <b>102</b> launches a mobile application (step <b>1002</b>) that is designed to control and/or monitor EKG machine <b>900</b>. Once the mobile application is launched, smartphone <b>102</b> performs authentication (step <b>1004</b>) of the nurse <b>100</b>. In step <b>1006</b>, smartphone <b>102</b> determines if nurse <b>100</b> is authenticated. If nurse <b>100</b> is not authenticated, then smartphone <b>102</b> terminates the session in step <b>608</b>. If, however, nurse <b>100</b> is authenticated, then smartphone <b>102</b> executes step <b>1010</b> and displays the mobile application control features.

0065It should be noted that optionally (steps <b>1012</b> and <b>1018</b>), smartphone <b>102</b> may mirror the display of the mobile application control features on the monitor of POC cart/workstation <b>104</b> and receive input from the keyboard of POC car/workstation <b>104</b>. This, however, is not required. The nurse can control the EKG machine <b>900</b> directly by smartphone <b>102</b>.

0066In step <b>1014</b>, smartphone <b>102</b> receives input from nurse <b>100</b> requesting to execute a function of EKG machine <b>900</b>. Smartphone <b>102</b> sends a control signal (step <b>1016</b>) to the single board computer of interface module <b>110</b> to control EKG machine <b>900</b>. In step <b>1020</b>, the single board computer sends a control signal via the interface board to EKG machine <b>900</b>. This control signal controls EKG machine <b>900</b> to perform the desired function (e.g. monitor the patient's heart).

0067Once EKG machine <b>900</b> completes the scan, the single board computer (step <b>1022</b>) receives the results of the EKG. In step <b>1024</b>, the EKG results are sent by the single board computer to the smartphone <b>102</b>, and eventually to the server <b>116</b> in order to update the patient database with the results.

0068Referring generally to the figures, and in order to provide an overview of exemplary features of this invention, the following paragraphs summarize selected aspects of the invention.

0069One example includes a point-of-care cart assembly configured for use by a medical professional <b>100</b> in connection with delivering medical care to a patient. The point-of-care cart assembly including a mobile point-of-care cart <b>104</b> configured to be positioned and repositioned for use by the medical professional <b>100</b>. The mobile point-of-care cart <b>104</b> also being configured to support at least one peripheral device <b>108</b> facilitating the input of medical data specific to the patient for delivery to a remote database server <b>116</b>. The mobile point-of-care care also including an interface module <b>110</b> mounted to the mobile point-of-care cart <b>104</b>. The interface module <b>110</b> being configured for electronic communication with the at least one peripheral device <b>108</b>. The interface module <b>110</b> also being configured for electronic communication with a mobile computing device <b>102</b>. When the mobile computing device <b>102</b> is proximal to the mobile point-of-care cart <b>104</b>, the interface module <b>110</b> is configured to receive input from the medical professional <b>100</b> via the at least one peripheral device <b>108</b>, the input including an access request for the mobile computing device <b>102</b> to access medical data stored at the remote database server <b>116</b> or a storage request for the mobile computing device <b>102</b> to store new medical data in the remote database server <b>116</b>, transmit the input to the mobile computing device <b>102</b> for transfer to the remote database server <b>116</b>, and receive, from the mobile computing device <b>102</b>, the requested medical data from the remote database server <b>116</b> or a confirmation that the new medical data is stored in the remote database server <b>116</b>.

0070In one example, the at least one peripheral device <b>108</b> is selected from the group consisting of a keyboard, a monitor, a microphone, a speaker, and a mouse. In one example, the interface module <b>110</b> is further configured to mirror, on the at least one peripheral device <b>108</b>, as part of the facilitated electronic communication, functionality of a mobile application executed on the mobile computing device <b>102</b>. In one example, the interface module <b>110</b> includes a processor <b>200</b> for processing the input and medical data, and an interface board <b>202</b> having at least one of data ports for plugging in the at least one peripheral device <b>108</b> or a wireless transceiver for communicating with the at least one peripheral device <b>108</b>. In one example, when the mobile computing device <b>102</b> is not proximal to the mobile point-of-care cart <b>104</b>, the interface module <b>110</b> is further configured to stop electronic communication between the mobile computing device <b>102</b> and the at least one peripheral device <b>108</b>, and prevent access to the medical data stored in the remote database server <b>116</b> via the mobile point-of-care cart <b>104</b>.

0071Another example includes a workstation assembly configured to provide secure access to a controlled inventory of stored items. The workstation including a bin module <b>112</b> including a plurality of bins each configured to store one or more of the stored items. The bin module <b>112</b> also including an electronic lock associated with each of the plurality of bins. The workstation also including an interface module <b>110</b> coupled to the bin module <b>112</b> and configured for electronic communication with at least one peripheral device <b>108</b> facilitating the input of data specific to the stored items. The interface module <b>110</b> also being configured for electronic communication with a mobile computing device <b>102</b>. When the mobile computing device <b>102</b> is proximal to the workstation, the interface module <b>110</b> is configured to receive input from a user via the at least one peripheral device <b>108</b>, the input including an access request to access the stored items in the bin module <b>112</b>, transmit the input to the mobile computing device <b>102</b> for transfer to a remote database server <b>116</b>, receive, from the mobile computing device <b>102</b>, instructions to unlock the stored items in the bin module <b>112</b>, transmit at least one control signal to the bin module <b>112</b> to unlock the electronic lock of a selected bin of the plurality of bins, and transmit inventory information associated with the selected bin to the mobile computing device <b>102</b> for transfer to the remote database server <b>116</b>.

0072In one example, the at least one peripheral device <b>108</b> is selected from the group consisting of a keyboard, a monitor, a microphone, a speaker, a biometric sensor, and a mouse. In one example, the workstation is mounted to a mobile point-of-care cart <b>104</b> configured to be positioned and repositioned for use by a medical professional <b>100</b>, and the stored items include at least one of medication or medical supplies. In one example, the interface module <b>110</b> includes a processor <b>200</b> for processing the input and instructions, and an interface board <b>202</b> having at least one of data ports for plugging in the at least one peripheral device or a wireless transceiver for communicating with the peripheral devices <b>108</b>. In one example, when the mobile computing device <b>102</b> is not proximal to the mobile point-of-care cart <b>104</b>, interface module <b>110</b> is further configured to stop electronic communication between the mobile computing device <b>102</b> and the at least one peripheral device <b>108</b>, and prevent access to the stored items in the bin module <b>112</b> via the workstation assembly.

0073Yet another example includes a point-of-care cart assembly configured for use by a medical professional <b>100</b> in connection with delivering medical care to a patient. The point-of-care cart assembly including a mobile point-of-care cart <b>104</b> configured to be positioned and repositioned for use by the medical professional <b>100</b>. The mobile point-of-care cart <b>104</b> also being configured to support at least one peripheral device <b>108</b> facilitating the input of medical data specific to the patient for delivery to a remote database server <b>116</b> and at least one medical apparatus <b>900</b> having an electronic sensor. The point-of-care cart assembly also including an interface module <b>110</b> mounted to the mobile point-of-care cart <b>104</b>. The interface module <b>110</b> being configured for electronic communication with the at least one peripheral device <b>108</b> and the medical apparatus <b>900</b>, and the interface module <b>110</b> also being configured for electronic communication with a mobile computing device <b>102</b>. When the mobile computing device <b>102</b> is proximal to the mobile point-of-care cart <b>104</b>, the interface module <b>110</b> is configured to receive input from a user via the at least one peripheral device <b>108</b>, the input including a request to control the medical apparatus <b>900</b> or to receive data from the medical apparatus <b>900</b>, transmit the input to the mobile computing device <b>102</b> for transfer to the remote database server <b>116</b>, receive, from the mobile computing device <b>102</b>, instructions to control the medical apparatus <b>900</b> or to receive data from the medical apparatus <b>900</b>, transmit at least one control signal to the medical apparatus <b>900</b> or to receive data from the medical apparatus <b>900</b>, receive data from the medical apparatus <b>900</b>, and transmit the data to the mobile computing device <b>102</b> for transfer to the remote database server <b>116</b>.

0074In one example, the at least one peripheral device <b>108</b> is, selected from the group consisting of a keyboard, a monitor, a microphone, a speaker, a biometric sensor, and a mouse. In one example, the interface module <b>110</b> is configured to control the medical apparatus <b>900</b> to perform at least one of an EKG or a Blood Pressure Analysis. In one example, the interface module <b>110</b> includes a processor <b>200</b> for processing the input, the instructions, and the data from the medical apparatus <b>900</b>, and an interface board <b>202</b> having at least one of data ports for plugging in the at least one peripheral device <b>108</b> or a wireless transceiver for communicating with the at least one peripheral device. In one example, when the mobile computing device <b>102</b> is not proximal to the mobile point-of-care cart <b>104</b>, interface module <b>110</b> is further configured to stop electronic communication between the mobile computing device <b>102</b> and the peripheral device <b>108</b>, and prevent access to the stored items in the bin module <b>112</b> via the workstation assembly.

0075Still another example includes a method for providing secure access to a controlled inventory of stored items of a workstation including a bin module <b>112</b> having a plurality of bins each configured to store one or more of the stored items. The bin module also including an electronic lock associated with each of the plurality of bins. The workstation also including an interface module <b>110</b> coupled for communication to the bin module and configured for electronic communication with at least one peripheral device <b>108</b> facilitating the input of data specific to the stored items. The interface module <b>110</b> also being configured for electronic communication with a mobile computing device <b>102</b>. The method including when the mobile computing device <b>102</b> is proximal to the workstation, receiving, by the interface module <b>110</b>, input from a user via the at least one peripheral device, the input including an access request to access the stored items in the bin module <b>112</b>, transmitting, by the interface module <b>110</b>, the input to the mobile computing device <b>102</b> for transfer to a remote database server <b>116</b>, receiving, by the interface module <b>110</b>, from the mobile computing device <b>102</b>, instructions to unlock the stored items in the bin module <b>112</b>, transmitting, by the interface module <b>110</b>, at least one control signal to the bin module <b>112</b> to unlock the electronic lock of a selected bin of the plurality of bins, and transmitting, by the interface module <b>110</b>, inventory information associated with the selected bin to the mobile computing device <b>102</b> for transfer to the remote database server <b>116</b>.

0076In one example, the method includes facilitating input and output of data to the workstation through at least one peripheral device <b>108</b> selected from the group consisting of a keyboard, a monitor, a microphone, a speaker, a biometric sensor, and a mouse. In one example, the method includes unlocking, by the interface module <b>110</b>, the electronic lock of the selected bin of the plurality of bins, and allowing a medical professional <b>100</b> to access at least one of medication or medical supplies stored in the bin. In one example, the method includes processing, by a processor <b>200</b> of the interface module <b>110</b>, the input and instructions, and providing, by an interface board, communication to the peripheral devices, the interface board <b>202</b> including at least one of data ports for plugging in the peripheral devices <b>108</b> or a wireless transceiver for wireless communication. In one example, when the mobile computing device <b>102</b> is not proximal to the mobile point-of-care cart <b>104</b>, stopping, by the interface module <b>110</b>, electronic communication between the mobile computing device <b>102</b> and the peripheral device <b>108</b>, and preventing, by the interface module <b>110</b>, access to the stored items in the bin module via the workstation assembly.

0077While the foregoing has described what are considered to be the best mode and/or other examples, it is understood that various modifications may be made therein and that the subject matter disclosed herein may be implemented in various forms and examples, and that the teachings may be applied in numerous applications, only some of which have been described herein. It is intended by the following claims to claim any and all applications, modifications and variations that fall within the true scope of the present teachings.

0078Unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, magnitudes, sizes, and other specifications that are set forth in this specification, including in the claims that follow, are approximate, not exact. They are intended to have a reasonable range that is consistent with the functions to which they relate and with what is customary in the art to which they pertain.

0079It will be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions with respect to their corresponding respective areas of inquiry and study except where specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein. Relational terms such as first and second and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element proceeded by “a” or “an” does not, without further constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

0080The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, it can be seen that various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.