If you've ever had a blood test or had an IV put in, you likely know the extreme irritation that comes when nurses have difficulty finding veins. No one likes getting stabbed.
From the Australian Red Cross Blood Service comes a world-first innovation in health technology. Their machine is currently being trialled among blood donation locations across Sydney to test its effectiveness. The gadget shows where your veins are so nurses and other health care professionals won't have to struggle. The handheld device uses infrared light to absorb the hemoglobin from your blood, thus indicating where to go about finding veins.
This visualization technology wasn't originated by the Red Cross, but comes from two separate Australian companies, according to a recent press release.
Vein-Locating Devices
This New Technology Helps Health Care Practitioners with Finding Veins
Trend Themes
1. Vein-visualization Technology - There is an opportunity for companies to develop and improve vein-visualization technology for a more accurate and efficient experience.
2. Pain Reduction - There is an opportunity to create products and services that can reduce the pain and discomfort experienced during venipuncture.
3. Infrared Technology - There is an opportunity for businesses to explore and develop infrared technology for a wide range of medical applications beyond vein-locating.
Industry Implications
1. Healthcare - The healthcare industry can benefit from integrating vein-visualization technology in their facilities, streamlining the process and improving patient experience.
2. Medical Devices - Medical device companies can license or create new vein-visualization devices with improved speed and accuracy for vein location, improving the standard of care for patients.
3. Pharmaceuticals - Pharmaceutical companies can work on developing pain-reducing drugs or creams to be used during procedures like venipuncture, improving the patient experience.