Drug Interface to Save Lives
Author: University of Alberta
Published: 2009/12/10
Topic: Pharmaceutical Information (Publications Database)
Page Content: Synopsis Introduction Main Item
Synopsis: The interface researchers hope to adapt and install on portable computing devices such as a Blackberry.
Introduction
A drug information interface system developed by two University of Alberta researchers has been shown to help in dealing with visual and motor impairments, which can make sorting, holding and identifying pills a challenge as we age.Main Item
Lisa Given and Stan Ruecker, professors in humanities computing, asked seniors, age 65 and older, to imagine having accidentally dropped and mixed up their pills. Using a sample of about a half-dozen drugs, researchers say the seniors were able to identify and re-organize the pills when asked to use the interface, which had images and details of more than a thousand pills in its database.
The interface, which researchers hope to adapt for install on portable computing devices such as a Blackberry, could also be used in poison control centers where officials have little time to save a person's life and must act quickly to determine the amount and kind of pills ingested. Researchers say the system will help poison control to identify drugs efficiently and reliably.
Given and Ruecker also say the system could be used in emergency rooms in the case of someone who had overdosed on a combination of drugs. Given says in such situations all the medical staff might have is a plastic bag full of pills with no knowledge about the drugs. The researchers say medical practitioners could quickly use the interface to identify the pills and their characteristics.
1 - How Propofol, an Anesthesia Drug, Induces Unconsciousness - Propofol, a widely used anesthetic, disrupts the brain's balance between stability and excitability.
2 - From Aspirin to Opioids: A Comprehensive Guide to Pain-Relieving Medications - Information on pain management medications, from common anti-inflammatory drugs to powerful prescription analgesics such as codeine and morphine, designed to address diverse levels of pain intensity.
3 - Can Pharmacological Treatment for ADHD Lower Criminal Behavior? - Pharmacological treatment of ADHD is commonly used in clinical practice, but the impact on crime remains debated.
Page Information, Citing and Disclaimer
Disabled World is a comprehensive online resource that provides information and news related to disabilities, assistive technologies, and accessibility issues. Founded in 2004 our website covers a wide range of topics, including disability rights, healthcare, education, employment, and independent living, with the goal of supporting the disability community and their families.
Cite This Page (APA): University of Alberta. (2009, December 10). Drug Interface to Save Lives. Disabled World. Retrieved December 13, 2024 from www.disabled-world.com/medical/pharmaceutical/drug-interface.php
Permalink: <a href="https://www.disabled-world.com/medical/pharmaceutical/drug-interface.php">Drug Interface to Save Lives</a>: The interface researchers hope to adapt and install on portable computing devices such as a Blackberry.
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it's important to note that our content is for general informational purposes only. We always recommend consulting qualified healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice. Any 3rd party offering or advertising does not constitute an endorsement.