Evolution of Appropriate Technology

Abstract

This paper considers the very significant challenges for Clinical Engineers when attempting to design medical technologies for use in lesser developed countries. The special problems concerning the care of ill newborn babies, and in particular, the impact of hypothermia and cold stress provided the focus for the work performed. A field study was carried out in both urban and rural settings of Iran as a developing country, the aims being to determine the incidence of hypothermia in the new-born, and to make observations concerning clinical and nursing procedures and equipment which may contribute to the problem. It was concluded that there is a need for training of both medical and technical staff, and there is also a requirement for a range of thermal control devices and procedures to help infants in different clinical circumstances. It was then decided to focus on the development of a simple, non-electric, safe, low cost and easily operated, heated transporting device which might increase the chances of survival of ill babies in rural and isolated areas being transferred to higher level clinical facilities in towns or cities. The laboratory design and preliminary laboratory testing of the device are described.