Deficiency of iron can restrict the transport of oxygen in the blood. This can cause birth asphyxia, affecting 40-60% of children ages 6-24 months in low-resource settings. Detecting low oxygen levels in patients when it is too late can permanently impede cognitive development, cause organ failure, or even death.

Detailed description of the solution

This durable, low-cost pulse oximetry probe is placed on a thin part of the patient's body (fingertip, earlobe) or on the foot of an infant. It's oximeter measures the saturation of oxygen in the blood of newborns, sick children, and mothers undergoing cesarean sections. The device's power is derived via a "wind-up" mechanism, so it can be used anywhere away from electrical power sources.

Designed by

• Designed by: Power-Free Education and Technology, lead by John Wyatt
• Manufacturer (if different):
• Manufacturer location: South Africa

When and where it was tested/implemented

South Africa, United Kingdom, 2011

Funding Source

Recipient of Grand Challenges Exploration Grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

References