Problem being addressed
Maternal death rates are often high in resource-poor settings because of inefficient and inaccurate labor assessment and delayed complication management. The paper partogram, although a useful tool for monitoring and assessing the progress of labor, remains cumbersome and time-consuming.
Detailed description of the solution
The ePartogram is an affordable, easy-to-operate, efficient and comprehensive electronic alternative to the paper partogram. It is a hand-held device that allows for more efficient recording of clinical observations, more accurate predictions of complications, and more rapid decision-making. It includes a sensor module for partial automation of data collection and a telemedicine module that allows midwives to obtain support and guidance from distant senior-level clinicians. Thus, the ePartogram supports front-line workers and brings essential services to women.
Designed by
- Designed by: Jhpiego Corportion, Johns Hopkins University Center for Bio-Engineering Innovation and Design, Laerdal Global Health
- Manufacturer location: Baltimore, Maryland, USA
When and where it was tested/implemented
Lab or bench testing will take place mainly in Baltimore, MD, while field testing is likely to take place in Kenya.
Funding Source
Saving Lives at Birth: Grand Challenge for Development
References
Peer-reviewed publication
ePartogram. (n.d.). Johns Hopkins University Center for Bioengineering Innovation and Design. Retrieved November 14, 2012 from here.
ePartogram. (2011, April 25). Tech Briefs: Create the Future Design Contest 2012. Retrieved November 14, 2012 from here.
Global: Field-Testing Electronic Lifesaving Tool for Prevention and Management of Complications during Labor. (n.d.). Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health: Center for Adolescent Health. Retrieved November 14, 2012 from here.
Externally generated reports
E-Partogram. (2012, May 16). Saving Lives at Birth: A Grand Challenge for Development. Retrieved November 14, 2012 from here.
The Innovators—Neonatal Technologies Forum. (n.d.). National Collegiate Inventors and Innovators Alliance. Retrieved November 14, 2012 from here.