Development of integrated monitoring technology for hypothermia and hypoxia in low birth weight infants

Abstract

Hypothermia and hypoxia are two conditions that often occur in Low Birth Weight (LBW) infants and can lead to serious complications if not promptly detected and addressed. The aim of the research is to develop a prototype of a medical device that integrates the detection of hypothermia and hypoxia in low birth weight infants. The research method uses a Research and Development approach. (R&D). The development process is carried out through several stages, namely needs analysis, design, development, testing, and evaluation. In the needs analysis stage, data is collected based on the results of previous research and through a literature review to determine the expected specifications of the tool. Next, in the design and development stage, the prototype is designed by integrating temperature sensors and an oximeter, as well as an automatic alarm system that provides early warnings when the baby's vital parameters are outside normal limits. In the initial stage, testing is conducted through simulations. The research results show that the prototype is capable of quickly detecting changes in body temperature and oxygen levels, as well as providing an alarm response to any abnormal changes. In further development, functional testing of the device will be conducted on infants. This device is expected to contribute to the improvement of neonatal care quality and the reduction of infant mortality rates due to complications from hypothermia and hypoxia.