Wearable Multi Vital Monitor for Newborns

In this study, wearable device that can monitor the multi vital signs of Jaundice, SpO
₂
, and heart rate from newborn foreheads was developed. In order to observe details of body conditions of newborns, it is crucial to detect the multi vital signs such as heart rate and oxygen saturation of peripheral artery (SpO
₂
). In addition, considering the handling of the devices, it should be convenient to detect them from one device on the forehead, which does not need to take off their clothes or move newborns. Previously, we reported wearable device which monitored only bilirubin concentration for newborn jaundice [1]. In this study, in addition to the detection of bilirubin concentration, we implemented the functionalities of heart rate and SpO
₂
measurements into the device. Light emitting diodes (LEDs) irradiated newborn's forehead with BLUE, GREEN, RED, and IR (infrared) lights. Based on the reflected lights intensity, the 3 vital signs were calculated. Using the device, clinical experiments were conducted on neonates 1-5 days after birth.