The Mockup and Testing Stage

The selected concept, the one with a box case and foam arm-board were made into a mockup.

The problem of over-taping and discomfort

Through ward rounds and observations, we understood that the current flat arm boards (made with cardboard and gauze) meant to provide support might cause the child equal discomfort. They are flimsy and get soiled easily. The caregivers are required to replace the arm board quite often, adding to the waste generated in the ward per patient. We needed to find a reliable, reusable alternative.

Fig1. Quick mockup with Lego pieces, velcro, and a sponge for the arm board.

For the mockups, I chose to work with XPS foam. It is strong and sturdy but has a smooth texture, making it comfortable on the arm. We shaped it according to the curves and bends of the forearm. To make the child more comfortable, I suggested we use a softer foam, for example, memory foam at the wrist.

Tapes do not suit the sensitive skin of children, especially over a longer duration. It can irritate the skin, causing redness and also cause infection in some cases. They are not reusable. An alternative like the velcro was thought to be easily available and reliable. Being water proof is another plus-point.

Fig 2. Sponge replaced with XPS foam board. It is sturdy and shaped easily.

Another form was tested. I tried sanding the XPS foam and shaping it to fit the palm, like a holder. This might be more comfortable than a horizontal surface. After testing it with the stakeholders, it was concluded that the surface in Fig.2 is more comfortable than Fig.3.

Fig. 3 Mirroring the texture and form of the palm.

Ergonomic measurements were taken from the ward and also referred to online. For mockups, we focused on three ages - infants to toddlers, 6-year-olds, and 12-year-olds. The size seen in Fig. 4 was meant for a one-year-old baby. On testing in the wards, as seen in Fig. 5 it fit perfectly for a 4-year-old girl as well as a lean 8-year-old girl. The same did not fit a healthy 8-year-old boy. He could try the size seen in Fig. 2 instead. These trials gave us clarity and we realized that sizes for babies and kids mentioned online very a lot. We need a solution that can fit most patients, no matter the age group. Catering to different ages with different arm board sizes does increase the cost of the product too.

Fig. 4 Same form, smaller size - to suit toddlers.

Fig. 5 Testing the IV stabilization product on the hands of a 4 year old girl.

Fig. 6 Testing the IV stabilization product on the hands of an 8-year-old boy.

As discussed before, we understand the needs of infants are very different. They have lesser and slower movements. We discussed our observations with a pediatric surgeon who gave us some new ideas and directions for solving the issue. As seen below, a three-month-old baby cannot wear something as heavy as this. They tend to move their arms to their faces and can get hurt in the process.

Fig. 7 Testing the IV stabilization product on the hands of a 3-month-old baby..

In the next blog, we see the mockup using a watch strap made of silicon. Most drawbacks seen in this concept are getting resolved.