U.S. patent application number 16/630381 was filed with the patent office on 2020-05-14 for neonate medical wraps for a baby and parent, and related methods.
The applicant listed for this patent is SAPLACOR, LLC. Invention is credited to Laney Chiesa, Mary Chiesa, Carin Johnson, Kailey Watson.
Application Number | 20200146463 16/630381 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 64095862 |
Filed Date | 2020-05-14 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200146463 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Chiesa; Mary ; et
al. |
May 14, 2020 |
NEONATE MEDICAL WRAPS FOR A BABY AND PARENT, AND RELATED
METHODS
Abstract
Disclosed is a neonate medical wrap. In one embodiment, the
neonate medical wrap is a wrap-style baby carrier that is
particularly useful during the first 28 days after the baby's
birth. Generally, the disclosed neonate medical wrap comprises a
torso wrap and a shoulder strap. In use, the torso wrap and
shoulder strap may be outfitted around the torso of a parent and,
via a side opening, a baby may be installed against the parent's
skin under the torso wrap. The shoulder strap may be provided over
the shoulder of the parent to assist in supporting the baby's
weight while standing.
Inventors: |
Chiesa; Mary; (Brentwood,
CA) ; Chiesa; Laney; (Los Angeles, CA) ;
Johnson; Carin; (Los Angeles, CA) ; Watson;
Kailey; (Los Angeles, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SAPLACOR, LLC |
La Jolla |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
64095862 |
Appl. No.: |
16/630381 |
Filed: |
July 10, 2018 |
PCT Filed: |
July 10, 2018 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/IB2018/000880 |
371 Date: |
January 10, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
15591802 |
May 10, 2017 |
10405672 |
|
|
16630381 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41D 1/215 20180101;
A45C 13/103 20130101; A45F 2003/025 20130101; A45F 2003/144
20130101; A45C 2013/1015 20130101; A45F 3/02 20130101; A45F 3/14
20130101; A47D 13/025 20130101; A45F 2003/142 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47D 13/02 20060101
A47D013/02; A41D 1/215 20060101 A41D001/215; A45F 3/14 20060101
A45F003/14; A45F 3/02 20060101 A45F003/02; A45C 13/10 20060101
A45C013/10 |
Claims
1. A neonate medical wrap comprising: a torso sleeve; and, a
shoulder strap.
2. The neonate medical wrap of claim 1 wherein the shoulder strap
and torso sleeve generally form concentric fabric loops or
tubes.
3. The neonate medical wrap of claim 2 wherein the shoulder strap
and torso sleeve are joined along a mutual opening down the side of
the concentric loops or tubes.
4. The neonate medical wrap of claim 3, wherein: the loop or tube
formed by the torso sleeve features an upper rim and a lower rim;
and, the loop or tube formed by the shoulder strap features an
upper rim and a lower rim.
5. The neonate medical wrap of claim 4, where the shoulder strap
features a pocket with a zippered opening, said pocket for the
retention of various baby related items.
6. The neonate medical wrap of claim 3, wherein the mutual opening
is preferably selectively closeable via a zipper and features a
secondary clasp.
7. The neonate medical wrap of claim 6, wherein a zipper head of
the zipper may be locked in place at the top rim of the sleeve via
a zipper lock or flap.
8. The neonate medical wrap of claim 7, wherein the torso sleeve
features patterned compression threading.
9. The neonate medical wrap of claim 8 wherein the torso sleeve
features silver threading.
10. A method of securing a baby, the method comprising the steps
of: a. placing a neonate medical wrap around the torso of a parent,
where the neonate medical wrap comprises: a torso sleeve; a
shoulder strap; wherein the shoulder strap and torso sleeve
generally form conjoined fabric loops or tubes; wherein the
shoulder strap and torso sleeve are joined along a mutual opening
down the side of the concentric loops or tubes, wherein the loop or
tube formed by the torso sleeve features an upper rim and a lower
rim; and, wherein the loop or tube formed by the shoulder strap
features an upper rim and a lower rim; b. opening the mutual
opening; c. placing a baby on a chest of the wearer; and d. closing
the mutual opening so that the sleeve and shoulder strap are around
both the torso of the parent and a body of the baby and so that the
head of the baby is exposed at the upper rim of the torso
sleeve.
11. The method of claim 10, further comprising the step of: e.
sliding a portion of the the upper rim of the shoulder strap over
the shoulder of the parent while at least a portion of the lower
rim of the shoulder strap is positioned under a buttocks of the
baby.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of International
Application No. PCT/US2018/41470 (filed Jul. 10, 2018) and entitled
"Neonate medical wraps for a baby and parent, and related method,"
which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
15/591,802 (filed May 10, 2017) and entitled "Neonate medical wraps
for a baby and parent, and related methods," which document is
hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
THE NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT
[0003] Not applicable.
REFERENCE TO AN APPENDIX SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC AND
INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE OF THE MATERIAL ON THE COMPACT DISC
[0004] Not applicable.
STATEMENT REGARDING PRIOR DISCLOSURES BY THE INVENTOR OR A JOINT
INVENTOR
[0005] Reserved for a later date, if necessary.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of Invention
[0006] The disclosed subject matter is in the field of neonate
wraps and related methods.
Background of the Invention
[0007] Recent statistics indicate that newborn babies are dropped
by parents, midwifes, or hospital staff at a rate of twenty-two
(22) times for every nineteen-thousand (19,000) births. Increases
in newborn baby illnesses or diseases, like methicillin-resistant
staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Vancomycin-resistant enterococci
(VRE), and other hospital-acquired infections (i.e., nosocomial
infections), have also been reported in recent years. Some have
suggested that increased popularity of skin-to-skin newborn care
techniques (sometimes called Kangaroo care because of skin-to-skin
techniques' resemblance to the marsupials' newborn in-pouch
treatment techniques) are to blame for increased baby drops and
infections.
[0008] Placing the blame of increased use of skin-to-skin
techniques on increased newborn disease and increased injury is
rational. Skin-to-skin techniques necessarily involve the handoff
of newborns between parents and staff, holding of newborns by
inexperienced or untrained parents, and contact of the newborn with
the sometimes unclean skin of an adult. So, a need exists for
improvements to apparatus and related methods for accomplishing
skin-to-skin newborn baby care.
Description of Related Art
[0009] The prior patent documents that are known can be described
as follows: [0010] U.S. Pat. No. 0,002,237 by Cook circa 1841 shows
suspenders for holding pantaloons so that the torso of a wearer is
covered; [0011] U.S. Pat. No. 0,336,413 by Karp circa 1886
discloses a corset is shown to wrap around the torso of a wearer
and that features a plurality of connectors; [0012] U.S. Pat. No.
3,229,873 by Hershman circa 1966 discloses a "child carrier;"
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 3,443,066 by Weibel circa 1969 discloses a
"heated outdoor garment;" [0014] U.S. Pat. No. 4,079,467 by Baldwin
circa 1978 discloses a "parent-child coat;" [0015] U.S. Pat. No.
4,089,067 by Velasco circa 1978 shows a "shirt" for two people in
contact; [0016] U.S. Pat. No. 4,773,102 by Curtis et al. circa 1988
discloses an "inner-pocketed two person jacket;" [0017] U.S. Pat.
No. 4,987,612 by Middleton circa 1991 discloses a "cape for a
nursing mother;" [0018] U.S. Pat. No. 5,946,725 by Shatzkin et al.
circa 1999 discloses an "adult infant bonding garment;" [0019] U.S.
Pat. No. 6,065,655 by Parewick circa 2000 discloses a "combination
baby carrier and seat harness apparatus;" [0020] U.S. Pat. No.
6,343,727 by Leach circa 2002 discloses a "one-piece baby carrier;"
[0021] U.S. Pat. No. 6,434,750 by Hunter circa 2002 discloses an
"infant carrier covering;" [0022] U.S. Pat. No. 6,443,885 by
Schuler circa 2002 discloses a "process for operating an incubator"
during Kangaroo Care; [0023] U.S. Pat. No. 6,918,770 by Odiwo circa
2005 discloses an "infant nurturing medical device," where the
device enables Kangaroo Care "in the absence of biological
parents;" [0024] U.S. Pat. No. 7,188,372 by Stockard circa 2007
discloses an "infant-supporting privacy nursing apron;" [0025] U.S.
Pat. No. 7,260,852 by Sheetz circa 2007 discloses a "wraparound
swimsuit;" [0026] U.S. Pat. No. 8,491,555 by Bracci circa 2013
discloses an "absorbency pad for use in neonatal care and related
methods of use," wherein nano silver fibers are mentioned in the
document; [0027] U.S. Pat. No. 8,973,793 by Aryan circa 2015
discloses an "infant support garment;" [0028] U.S. D 574,579 by
Kang circa 2008 discloses the look and appearance of a "shirt;"
[0029] U.S. D 672,137 by Jackson circa 2012 discloses an "infant
care garment;" [0030] U.S. D 742,630 by Mullins circa 2015
discloses a "baby sleep support;" [0031] US20060206978 by Hilton et
al. circa 2006 discloses "medical garments for assisting in
skin-to-skin holding of infants in neonatal intensive care units;"
[0032] US20080149674 by Hiniduma-Lokuge circa 2008 discloses an
"infant carrier;" [0033] US20090285872 by Labelle circa 2009
discloses an "amphibious carrier and method of manufacturing;"
[0034] US20130291279 by Jensen et al. circa 2013 discloses
"garments and method for carrying a baby to provide skin-to-skin
contact;" [0035] US20140283277 by Wilhelm circa 2014 discloses a
"medical wrap for neonatal kangaroo care;" [0036] CN204379553U by
circa 2015 discloses a "baby care device;" and, [0037] CN202588350U
by circa 2012 discloses "silver fiber baby clothes."
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0038] The primary impetus for the neonate medical wrap is the
problem of baby drops at hospitals that implement skin-to-skin
(baby's skin on mother's skin) neonatal care. In addition to baby
drops, the wrap is designed to protect against cases of MRSA, VRE
and nosocomial infections are also problematic during skin-to-skin
infant care. In view of the foregoing, disclosed is a neonate
medical wrap. In one embodiment, the neonate medical wrap is a
wrap-style baby carrier that is particularly useful during the
first 28 days after the baby's birth.
[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the neonate medical wrap
comprises a torso sleeve and a shoulder strap. The shoulder strap
and torso sleeve generally form concentric fabric loops or tubes
and are joined along a mutual opening down the side of the tube. In
a preferred embodiment, the opening is selectively closeable via a
zipper and features at least one (e.g., two) secondary clasp for
added stability of the closed opening. In use, the torso sleeve and
shoulder strap may be outfitted around the torso of a parent and,
via the side opening, a baby may be installed against the parent's
skin under the sleeve. The shoulder strap may be provided over the
shoulder of the parent to assist in supporting the baby's weight
while standing and, as a result, enable hands free skin-to-skin
carrying of the baby inside the torso sleeve supported by the
shoulder strap. Suitably, the torso sleeve can feature patterned
compression threading for compressing arms and legs of the baby and
for supporting the parents abdomen and back during use. Finally,
the wrap suitably includes fibers that are bonded with a layer of
99% pure metallic silver threading knitted throughout to reduce the
risk of infectious illnesses, including by inhibiting the growth of
bacteria on the wrap.
[0040] The neonate medical wrap may suitably reduce any risk of
infant injury, reduce risk of infant illness, and facilitate safe
skin-to-skin or other hands-free coddling of the baby. Preferably,
the wrap goes around the torso of a parent and features an opening
on the side for easy baby installation into the wrap. Once
installed inside the wrap, the baby (i.e., front of the baby) is
suitably compressed against the parent. Compression may be
facilitated via use of compression threading. Suitably, the wrap
has a secondary strap or sling mechanism for added support and
carrying security.
[0041] Suitably, the disclosed neonate medical wrap may be used in
at least the following four (4) situations: 1. by a parent after
vaginal delivery of a newborn baby; 2. by a parent after delivery
of a baby via Cesarean Section ("C-section"); 3. by a parent while
a baby is treated in a neonatal intensive care unit of a hospital;
and 4. by a parent at home and a post-hospital setting. In a first
example, immediately prior to vaginal delivery of a baby, a nurse
or midwife may assist the mother-to-be in outfitting the neonate
medical wrap prior to you start to child-birth so that the newborn
baby may be quickly placed inside the wrap against the mothers
skin. In a second example, before a C-section, a nurse or midwife
may assist a mother-to-be in outfitting the wrap after a spinal
anesthesia has been placed on the mother-to-be. Elaborating on the
second example, the wrap may be placed on the delivery table so
that, after the spinal anesthesia is placed and the mother-to-be
laid down on table, the nurse or midwife may place the wrap on the
mother. In both examples, early positioning of the wrap on the
mother-to-be enables the wrap to acclimate to her body temperature
whereby (after the baby is born, its umbilical cord is clamped, and
its skin is wiped down) the garment can be partially uninstalled to
place the newborn baby against the mother. In a third example, the
wrap may be used in the NICU as well for kangaroo care. Continuing
the third example, the garment can enable placement of the baby on
a parent's upper chest while any medical tubes, lines, or other
equipment can be managed while attached to the baby. It should be
noted that the 99% pure metallic silver threading may be especially
good in the NICU since the chance of contracting MRSA, VRE and
nosocomial infections double after being treated in the NICU. In a
fourth example, the neonate medical wrap can be used in the home
after delivery of the baby, including after delivery for the first
twenty-eight (28) days while the baby is in the neonate phase. In a
preferred mode the baby may be in the range of weight between four
(4) and fourteen (14) pounds (lbs).
[0042] Suitably, a baby will suitably be positioned with its body
is fully aligned with the parents body on his or her chest (e.g.,
in a frog legged position where the baby's arms on its sides). In a
preferred positioning, the baby is front-to-front (e.g.,
chest-to-chest) with the parent. In one embodiment, the baby's
cheek may be positioned on the parent's chest in a position
proximate to the parents chin and lips so that the parent is able
to bend his or her neck down and kiss the baby's forehead. The
secondary strap or sling may suitably be wrapped around the
parent's torso or wrapped over the parent's shoulder for added
support while sitting or lying in bed. While the baby is installed,
the parent can suitably relax and recover in a substantially hands
free manner while maintaining skin-to-skin contact with the baby at
substantially all times.
[0043] Suitably, the wrap may also be worn in a standing position.
Initially, after the wrap is outfitted as described above, a parent
may tuck their arm into the shoulder strap to allow the shoulder
strap to slide up the arm and over half of the shoulder.
Preferably, the bottom part of the shoulder strap will support the
underneath of the baby's buttocks and back. In one embodiment, the
baby's weight can be well distributed across parent's back to
maintain excellent posture and support without causing strain. Such
positioning of the wrap can suitably enable a parent to walk freely
with both hands substantially free, as well as (in the case of a
mother) maintain proper post-pregnancy posture until her body has
time to recover. Such positioning of the wrap can also allow a
parent to have both hands substantially free to catch the baby in
case of falls or to block projectile objects from contact with the
baby. Suitably, a parent and baby can co-sleep (i.e., sleep
together) in a bed where the wrap can prevent baby falls or baby
suffocation from the bedding. A lactating parent can also
breastfeed while wearing the garment.
[0044] In another embodiment, the wrap may be worn in order to
harness and restrain a newborn during ambulance transports while
the material of the wrap exhibits antimicrobial/anti-odor
properties, thermoregulatory properties to help reduce the risk of
hypothermia, 4-way stretch properties that absorb energy from
impacts in conjunction with the impact mitigation provided by the
mother's chest, and support for the newborn's head and neck. The
wrap also permits tubes/lines to pass through to the baby so as not
to hinder medical treatment during transport. Such positioning of
the baby to the mother enabled by the wrap during ambulance
transports minimizes the risk of injury and provides close
proximity for a transport team to assess and continually monitor
mother and newborn during transport. Suitably, the wrap supports
the newborn limbs close to the torso in a frog-legged natural
anatomical/in utero position while leaving the newborn's face
visible so that the mother and transport tam can easily monitor
breathing. Further, the harnessing of the newborn by the wrap
eliminates a separate transport alternative, a practice that is
clinically proven to cause emotional distress.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0045] Other objectives of the disclosure will become apparent to
those skilled in the art once the invention has been shown and
described. The manner in which these objectives and other desirable
characteristics can be obtained is explained in the following
description and attached figures in which:
[0046] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a
wrap 1000 in a closed configuration;
[0047] FIG. 2 is a front view of the wrap 1000 of FIG. 1;
[0048] FIG. 3 is a rear view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1 and 2;
[0049] FIG. 4 is a right-side view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1
through 3;
[0050] FIG. 5 is a left-side view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1
through 4;
[0051] FIG. 6 is a top view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1 through
5;
[0052] FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1 through
6;
[0053] FIG. 8 is an environmental view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1
through 7;
[0054] FIG. 9 is a front view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1 through
8, where a strap 1500 is unfurled;
[0055] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1 through
9, where the strap 1500 is unfurled;
[0056] FIG. 11 is a side view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1 through
10, where the wrap 1000 is being opened via a zipper 1600;
[0057] FIG. 12 is a zoom-in view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1
through 11 that shows 99% pure metallic silver threading 1900;
[0058] FIG. 13 is another zoom-in of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1
through 11 that shows compression threading 1800;
[0059] FIG. 14 is an environmental view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1
through 13, where the strap 1500 is around the torso of a parent
2000;
[0060] FIG. 15 is another environmental view of the wrap 1000 of
FIGS. 1 through 13, where the strap 1500 is over the shoulder of
the parent 2000;
[0061] FIG. 16 is yet another environmental view of the wrap 1000
of FIGS. 1 through 13, where the strap 1500 is around the torso of
the parent 2000 while the baby 3000 is positioned in a frog
pose;
[0062] FIG. 17A is a zoom-in of a baby 3000 in the wrap 1000,
[0063] FIG. 17B is an inside view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1
through 17A; and
[0064] FIG. 18 is another environmental view of the wrap 1000 is
use during ambulance and emergency medical transportation.
[0065] In the figures, the following components are represented by
the corresponding reference numerals: [0066] neonate medical
wrap--1000; [0067] torso sleeve--1100; [0068] lower rim--1200;
[0069] upper rim--1300; [0070] sweat band--1310 [0071] band--1400;
[0072] hook clasp--1410; [0073] loop clasp--1420; [0074]
strap/sling--1500; [0075] upper shoulder strap rim--1510; [0076]
lower shoulder strap rim--1520 [0077] pocket--1550; [0078] pocket
opening--1551; [0079] pocket opening zipper 1552; [0080]
opening/zipper--1600; [0081] zipper cover--1610; [0082] compression
threading--1800; [0083] silver threading--1900; [0084]
parent--2000; and, [0085] baby--3000.
[0086] It is to be noted, however, that the appended figures
illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are
therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the
invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments that
will be appreciated by those reasonably skilled in the relevant
arts. Also, figures are not necessarily made to scale but are
representative.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0087] Disclosed is a neonate medical wrap. In one embodiment, the
neonate medical wrap is a wrap-style baby carrier that is
particularly useful during the first 28 days after the baby's
birth. Generally, the disclosed neonate medical wrap comprises a
torso wrap and a shoulder strap. In use, the torso wrap and
shoulder strap may be outfitted around the torso of a parent and,
via a side opening, a baby may be installed against the parent's
skin under the torso wrap. The shoulder strap may be provided over
the shoulder of the parent to assist in supporting the baby's
weight while standing. The more specific aspects of the disclosed
neonate wrap are disclosed in connection with the figures.
[0088] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a
wrap 1000 in a closed configuration. FIGS. 2 through 7 are the
orthogonal views of the wrap 1000. Specifically, FIG. 2 is a front
view of the wrap 1000; FIG. 3 is a rear view of the wrap 1000; FIG.
4 is a right-side view of the wrap 1000; FIG. 5 is a left-side view
of the wrap 1000; FIG. 6 is a top view of the wrap 1000; and, FIG.
7 is a bottom view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1 through 6. FIG. 9 is
a front view and FIG. 10 is a rear view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1
through 7, where the strap 1500 is unfurled (i.e., not joined as
shown in FIGS. 1 through 7 so that the inside of the strap 1500 and
outside of the sleeve 1100 can be seen.
[0089] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 7, 9 and 10, the neonate
medical wrap 1000 comprises: a torso sleeve 1100 and a shoulder
strap 1500. The shoulder strap 1500 and torso sleeve 1100 generally
form concentric fabric loops or tubes and are joined along a mutual
opening 1600 down the side of the conjoined concentric tubes that
defines the wrap 1000 (see FIG. 1). The tube formed by the sleeve
1100 features an upper rim 1300 and a lower rim 1200; the tube
formed by the shoulder strap features an upper rim 1510 and a lower
rim 1520. The shoulder strap 1500 features a pocket 1550 (seen best
in FIG. 9) with a zippered 1552 opening 1551 for the retention of
various baby related items (e.g., a binky (not shown) or face wipe
(not shown)). As shown, the opening 1600 is preferably selectively
closeable via a zipper 1600 and features a secondary clasp 1400
(shown later in FIG. 11 since the secondary clasp 1400 is an
internal component) for added stability of the closed opening 1600.
In a preferred embodiment, the zipper head may be locked in place
at the top rim 1300 of the sleeve 1100 via a zipper lock 1610 or
flap that covers and holds the zipped-up configuration shown in
FIG. 1. Suitably, the torso sleeve 1100 can feature patterned
compression threading 1800 for compressing arms and legs of the
baby (FIG. 9) and for supporting the parent's abdomen (FIG. 9) and
back (FIG. 10) during use. A zoom-in view of the compression
threading 1800 is shown in FIG. 13.
[0090] FIG. 8 is an environmental view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1
through 7. FIG. 11 is a side view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1
through 10, where the wrap 1000 is being opened via a zipper 1600.
Preferably, the wrap 1000 goes around the torso of a parent 2000
and features an opening 1600 on the side for easy baby 3000
installation into the wrap 1000. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 11, the
torso sleeve 1100 and shoulder strap 1500 may be outfitted around
the torso of a parent 2000 and, via the side opening 1600, a baby
3000 may be installed against the parent's 2000 skin within the
sleeve 1100. As shown, the shoulder strap 1500 may be provided over
the baby 3000 for added support and compression. Suitably, the wrap
has two (2) secondary claps 1400 or band that increases the
stability of the opening 1600 so that it is reinforced during use.
Suitably, the secondary clasp may be defined by a band 1400 with a
hook clasp 1410 and a loop clasp 1420. Suitably, the secondary
claps may be closed by coupling the hook clasp and loop clasp shown
in the blowout circles of FIG. 11. Once installed inside the wrap,
the baby is suitably compressed against the parent. Compression may
be facilitated via use of compression threading 1800 and the back
may be supported by the rear compression threading 1800.
[0091] The disclosed neonate medical wrap 1000 may suitably reduce
the risk of infant 3000 injury, reduce the risk of infant 3000
illness, and facilitate safe skin-to-skin or other hands-free
coddling of the baby 3000. To this end, the wrap 1000 may have
bonded fibers (including permanently bonded fibers) with a layer of
99% pure metallic silver threading 1900 knitted throughout to
reduce the risk of infectious illnesses. FIG. 12 is a zoom-in view
of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1 through 11 that shows 99% pure metallic
silver threading 1900. In a preferred embodiment, the 99% pure
metallic sliver threading can be acquired under the tradename
xstatic.RTM. silver.
[0092] FIGS. 2, 3, and 9 illustrate various preferred dimensions of
the disclosed neonatal medical wrap 1000. Dimension A is a measure
from the top edge 1300 finish to the bottom edge finish 1200 of the
sleeve 1100. In preferred embodiments, the dimension A may be
fifteen (15) inches, fourteen and one-half (14.5) inches, or
fourteen and one-quarter (14.25) inches. Dimension B is a measure
from the top edge 1510 to the bottom edge 1520 of the shoulder
strap 1500. In preferred embodiments, the dimension B may be seven
and one-half (7.5), seven and seven-eighths (77/8) inches, or eight
(8) inches. Dimension C is a measure from the shoulder strap 1500
stitching line straight up to the top edge 1510 of the shoulder
strap 1500. In preferred embodiments, the dimension C is one-half
(1/2) inch. Dimension D is a measure of the shoulder strap 1500
folded in half (e.g., the length of a preferred embodiment of the
shoulder strap 1500 may be two times the dimension D). In preferred
embodiments, the dimension D is eighteen and one-half (18.5)
inches, or eighteen and five-eighths (185/8) inches. Dimension E is
a measure of the sleeve 1100 folded in half (e.g., the length of a
preferred embodiment of the sleeve 1100 may be two times the
dimension E). In preferred embodiments, the dimension E is eighteen
and one-half (18.5) inches, or eighteen and five-eighths (185/8).
Dimension F is a measure from the bottom edge 1200 of the sleeve
1100 to the start of the compression threading 1800. In preferred
embodiments, the dimension F may be three (3) inches or two and
seven eights (27/8) inches. Dimension G may be a measure of the top
1300 stitching. In preferred embodiments, the dimension G may be
one and one-half (1.5) inch. Dimension H may be the measure between
the opening 1600 and the opening 1551 of the pocket 1550. In
preferred embodiment, the dimension H may be two (2) inches or two
and one eighth (21/8) inches. Dimension I may be the dimension of
the opening 1551. In preferred embodiments, the dimension I may be
five and one-fourth (5.25) inch. Dimension J may be the distance
between the bottom 1200 of the sleeve 1100 and the bottom 1520 of
the shoulder strap 1500. In preferred embodiments, the dimension J
is three and one half (3.5) inches or three and five-eighths
inches. All dimensions can be plus or minus a half (1/2) inch.
[0093] Suitably, the disclosed neonate medical wrap may be used in
at least the following four (4) situations: 1. by a parent after
(including immediately after) vaginal delivery of a newborn baby;
2. by a parent after (including immediately after) delivery of a
baby via Cesarean Section ("C-section"); 3. by a parent while a
baby is treated in a neonatal intensive care unit of a hospital;
and 4. by a parent at home and a post-hospital setting, including
for the first twenty-eight (28) days after the baby's birth. FIG.
14 is an environmental view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1 through 13,
where the strap 1500 is around the torso of a parent 2000. FIG. 15
is another environmental view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS. 1 through
13, where the strap 1500 is over the shoulder of the parent 2000.
FIG. 16 is yet another environmental view of the wrap 1000 of FIGS.
1 through 13, where the strap 1500 is around the torso of the
parent 2000 while the baby 3000 is positioned in a frog pose. FIG.
17 is a zoom-in of a baby 3000 in the wrap 1000.
[0094] Suitably, a baby 3000 may be positioned so that its body is
fully aligned with the parent's 2000 body on his or her chest
(e.g., in a frog legged position where the baby's arms on its sides
(see FIG. 16)). In one embodiment shown in FIG. 17, the baby's 300
cheek may be positioned on the parent's 2000 chest in a position
proximate to the parents chin and lips (not shown in FIG. 17) so
that the parent 2000 is able to bend his or her neck down and kiss
the baby's 3000 forehead. FIG. 17B is an inside view of the wrap
1000 of FIG. 17A. Referring to FIGS. 17A and 17B, the wrap 1000 may
feature a sweatband 1310 along the upper rim 1300 for the length
the wrap 1000 when unfurled with the zipper 1600 undone (as shown
in FIG. 17B). Suitably, the sweat band 1310 (a) is configured to
help with placement of the wrap 1000 so that it is restricted from
movements and (b) is further configured to provide softness to an
infant's 3000 head and cheek (see FIG. 17A).
[0095] As shown in FIG. 14 or 15, the secondary shoulder strap or
sling 1500 may suitably be wrapped around the parent's 2000 torso
(FIG. 14) or wrapped over the parent's 2000 shoulder (FIG. 15) for
added support while sitting or lying in bed. While the baby 3000 is
installed, the parent 2000 can suitably relax and recover in a
substantially hands-free manner while maintaining skin-to-skin
contact with the baby at substantially all times.
[0096] Suitably, the wrap 1000 may also be worn in a standing
position. Initially, after the wrap 1000 is outfitted as described
above, a parent 2000 may tuck their arm into the shoulder strap
1500 to allow the shoulder strap 1500 to slide up the arm and over
half of the shoulder (FIG. 15). Preferably, the bottom part 1520 of
the shoulder strap 1500 will support the underneath of the baby's
3000 buttocks and back. In one embodiment, the baby's weight can be
well distributed across parent's 2000 back to maintain excellent
posture and support without causing strain. Such positioning of the
wrap 1000 can suitably enable a parent 2000 to walk freely with
both hands substantially free, as well as (in the case of a mother)
maintain proper post-pregnancy posture until her body has time to
recover. Such positioning of the wrap can also allow a parent to
have both hands substantially free to catch the baby in case of
falls or to block projectile objects (not shown) from contact with
the baby 3000. Suitably, a parent and baby can co-sleep (i.e.,
sleep together) in a bed where the wrap can prevent baby falls or
baby suffocation from the bedding. A lactating parent 3000 can also
breastfeed while wearing the garment.
[0097] As shown in FIG. 18, the wrap 1000 may be worn in order to
harness and restrain a newborn during ambulance transports
involving the newborn and his or her guardian. In particular, the
wrap 1000 may be used for safe and secure multi-patient ambulance
or other ground transport to minimize risk of injury. The wrap 1000
provides close proximity for a transport team to assess and
continually monitor a guardian and newborn during transport. The
material of the wrap exhibits antimicrobial/anti-odor properties,
thermoregulatory properties to help reduce the risk of hypothermia,
4-way stretch properties that absorb energy from impacts in
conjunction with the impact mitigation provided by the mother's
chest, and support for the newborn's head and neck. The wrap also
permits tubes/lines to pass through to the baby so as not to hinder
medical treatment during transport. Such positioning of the baby to
the mother enabled by the wrap during ambulance transports
minimizes the risk of injury and provides close proximity for a
transport team to assess and continually monitor mother and newborn
during transport. Suitably, the wrap supports the newborn limbs
close to the torso in a frog-legged natural anatomical/in utero
position while leaving the newborn's face visible so that the
mother and transport tam can easily monitor breathing. Further, the
harnessing of the newborn by the wrap eliminates a separate
transport alternative, a practice that is clinically proven to
cause emotional distress. Other advantages include: transport of
guardian and newborn together to decrease stress; suitable for
infants and newborns from between 4 to 14 lbs (1.8-6.3 kg); monitor
of newborn face and breath by the guardian and transport team since
face is visible; support of the newborn's neck; support of the
newborn's limbs close to the guardian's torso in a frog-legged
natural anatomical/in utero position; absorb impact energy applied
to newborn during a wreck because of the 4-way stretch capability
of the wrap 1000; access to 60 lb test zipper with eye hook
closures for added security; placement tubes or other medical lines
to pass through the wrap 1000; reduction of hypothermia; reduction
of odor and microbial properties; and compact.
[0098] FIGS. 8 and 14 through 18 and the following examples further
illustrate these uses.
[0099] Example 1--vaginal delivery of a newborn: In a first
example, immediately prior to vaginal delivery of a baby 2000, a
nurse or midwife (not shown) may assist the mother-to-be 3000 in
outfitting the neonate medical wrap 1000 prior to the start of
child-birth so that the newborn baby 3000 may be quickly placed
inside the wrap 1000 against the mothers skin 1000, as shown.
[0100] Example 2--C-section delivery of a newborn: In a second
example, before a C-section, a nurse or midwife (not shown) may
assist a mother-to-be 2000 in outfitting the wrap 1000 after a
spinal anesthesia (not shown) has been placed on the mother-to-be
2000. Elaborating on the second example, the wrap 1000 may be
placed on the delivery table (not shown) so that, after the spinal
anesthesia (not shown) is placed and the mother-to-be 2000 laid
down on table (not shown), the nurse or midwife (not shown) may
place the wrap 1000 on the mother 2000.
[0101] In both examples 1 and 2, early positioning of the wrap 1000
on the mother-to-be 2000 enables the wrap 1000 to acclimate to her
2000 body temperature whereby (after the baby 3000 is born, its
umbilical cord (not shown) is clamped, and its skin is wiped down)
the garment 1000 can be partially uninstalled (see FIG. 11) to
place the newborn baby 2000 against the mother 2000. Once the baby
2000 is placed against the mother, then the claps can be
reinstalled and the zipper fully zipped plus placed in a locked
position.
[0102] Example 3--NICU use up to twenty-eight days post delivery:
In a third example, the wrap 1000 may be used in the NICU as well
for kangaroo care. Continuing the third example, the garment 1000
can enable placement of the baby 3000 on a parent's 2000 upper
chest while any medical tubes (not shown), lines (not shown), or
other equipment (not shown) can be managed while attached to the
baby 3000. It should be noted that the 99% pure metallic silver
threading 1900 may be especially good in the NICU since the chance
of contracting MRSA, VRE and nosocomial infections double after
being treated in the NICU.
[0103] Example 4--at home use: In a fourth example, the neonate
medical wrap can be used in the home after NICU use, including for
use on a baby during the first twenty-eight (28) days after
birth.
[0104] Example 5--in vehicle use: in a fifth example the wrap may
be worn by a guardian in the midst of a medical or other
transport.
[0105] Although the method and apparatus is described above in
terms of various exemplary embodiments and implementations, it
should be understood that the various features, aspects and
functionality described in one or more of the individual
embodiments are not limited in their applicability to the
particular embodiment with which they are described, but instead
might be applied, alone or in various combinations, to one or more
of the other embodiments of the disclosed method and apparatus,
whether or not such embodiments are described and whether or not
such features are presented as being a part of a described
embodiment. Thus the breadth and scope of the claimed invention
should not be limited by any of the above-described
embodiments.
[0106] Terms and phrases used in this document, and variations
thereof, unless otherwise expressly stated, should be construed as
open-ended as opposed to limiting. As examples of the foregoing:
the term "including" should be read as meaning "including, without
limitation" or the like, the term "example" is used to provide
exemplary instances of the item in discussion, not an exhaustive or
limiting list thereof, the terms "a" or "an" should be read as
meaning "at least one," "one or more," or the like, and adjectives
such as "conventional," "traditional," "normal," "standard,"
"known" and terms of similar meaning should not be construed as
limiting the item described to a given time period or to an item
available as of a given time, but instead should be read to
encompass conventional, traditional, normal, or standard
technologies that might be available or known now or at any time in
the future. Likewise, where this document refers to technologies
that would be apparent or known to one of ordinary skill in the
art, such technologies encompass those apparent or known to the
skilled artisan now or at any time in the future.
[0107] The presence of broadening words and phrases such as "one or
more," "at least," "but not limited to" or other like phrases in
some instances shall not be read to mean that the narrower case is
intended or required in instances where such broadening phrases
might be absent. The use of the term "assembly" does not imply that
the components or functionality described or claimed as part of the
module are all configured in a common package. Indeed, any or all
of the various components of a module, whether control logic or
other components, might be combined in a single package or
separately maintained and might further be distributed across
multiple locations.
[0108] Additionally, the various embodiments set forth herein are
described in terms of exemplary block diagrams, flow charts and
other illustrations. As will become apparent to one of ordinary
skill in the art after reading this document, the illustrated
embodiments and their various alternatives might be implemented
without confinement to the illustrated examples. For example, block
diagrams and their accompanying description should not be construed
as mandating a particular architecture or configuration.
[0109] All original claims submitted with this specification are
incorporated by reference in their entirety as if fully set forth
herein.
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