Covidien launches alarm management system for Nellcor pulse oximeter

17 June 2009

Covidien has announced the global launch of its Alarm Management System for the Nellcor OxiMax N-600x pulse oximeter. The OxiMax N-600x pulse oximeter is a full-featured, flagship oximeter that delivers accurate, reliable readings even during low perfusion and signal interference.

Oxygen saturation is a critical measure in patients experiencing respiratory depression. The Alarm Management System alerts hospital staff to periods of desaturation and potentially worrisome patterns and provides healthcare providers the ability to make timely, more-informed decisions about the care of patients.

"Cyclical impairment of airflow is a common denominator in a wide variety of patient conditions that can lead to mortality and severe morbidity, but it often goes unrecognized," said Frank Overdyk, MSEE, M.D., Professor of Anesthesiology at the Medical University of South Carolina. "Covidien's Alarm Management System quickly detects potentially harmful patterns and adds another level of patient safety by helping clinicians manage ventilation issues before they become adverse respiratory events."

The Alarm Management System enhances the information provided by traditional pulse oximeters and supports efficient, comprehensive care of patients who are at risk for upper airway abnormalities such as sleep apnea, a history of snoring and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Such patients include those who have a high body mass index, are in a reduced state of consciousness due to pain medication and exhaustion, and have undergone major surgery or are elderly. According to the Centers for Disease Control, individuals 65 years of age and older account for the largest population of patients entering US hospitals.

"The Alarm Management System will help hospitals remain efficient in today's increasingly demanding health care environment while providing the highest quality of care possible," said Chris Lowery, General Manager and Vice President, Patient Monitoring, Covidien. "At the core of Covidien's innovation is our goal to continue providing solutions designed to improve patient safety, medical efficacy and healthcare efficiency."

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