A
system and method for monitoring
vital signs and capturing data from a patient remotely using radiotelemetry techniques. The
system is characterized by a
cordless, disposable sensor band with sensors form measuring
full waveform ECG,
full waveform respiration,
skin temperature, and motion, and transmission circuitry for the detection and transmission of
vital signs data of the patient. A small
signal transfer unit that can either be worn by the patient, e.g., on his or her belt, or positioned nearby receives data from the sensor band, which it then forwards by e.g.,
radio transmission to a
base station that can be located up to 60 meters away. The
base station receives data transmissions from the
signal transfer unit and is designed to connect to conventional phone lines for transferring the collected data to a remote monitoring
station. The
base station may also capture additional clinical data, such as
blood pressure data, and to perform data checks. Patient safety is enhanced by the ability of the base
station to compare clinical data, e.g., ECG, against given profiles and to mark events when appropriate or when the base
station is programmed to do so. Such events are indicated to the physician and could be indicated to the patient by reverse transmission to the
signal transfer unit. A remote monitoring station allows the presentation and review of data (including events) forwarded by the sensor band.
ECG analysis software and a user-friendly
graphical user interface are provided to remotely analyze the transmitted data and to permit
system maintenance and upkeep. The system of the invention has useful application to the collection of patient clinical data during
drug trials and
medical testing for regulatory approvals as well as management of patients with chronic diseases.