Background

Accurately estimating the weight of pediatric patients is important in drug dosing, resuscitation interventions, and nutritional assessments.

In advanced economies and non-emergency situations, direct weighing is preferable but requires fixed equipment and adequate time. In developing countries, and in emergencies, limited time or resources require a weight estimation method that is rapid, accurate, simple and inexpensive.

Several pediatric weight estimation methods exist, but often become increasingly inaccurate near domain edges, i.e. for older children or infants, and for children who are naturally stocky or extremely thin. A major source of inaccuracy is reliance on a single scale factor, such as overall length of the child, or reported age.

The Innovation

Researchers at Children’s Mercy Hospital have developed a method to estimate pediatric weights by combining two separate measurements, both quickly determined with a single device.

The "Mercy Tape" allows rapid two-factor measurements, such as girth and long bone length, and directly displays the estimated weight with no need to consult ancillary numerical tables.

Using statistical analysis of a CDC dataset, the device is calibrated for ages 2 months to 16 years, and by multiple criteria is more accurate than competing methods.

The Mercy Tape can made of paper or other flexible material, shipped folded or printed on site, and configured into usable 3D form with little time or expertise required.

Applications

• Low-cost, rapid, accurate weight estimation for children 2 months to 16 years
• Can be separately calibrated for any large population of interest
• Developing countries and remote situations, where weight scales are rare
• Situations requiring high mobility and light weight
• Emergency and trauma use anywhere, when speed is critical
• Insert to packaging for medications

Advantages

• Based on objective mathematical model, calibrated against CDC population data
• Accurate, so less chance of wrong dosage or unnecessary intervention
• Can be printed on paper from electronic file, so very low cost
• Direct read out, so less training and time required, and less chance for error

Status

• Non-provisional Patent Application
• Seeking partner to license, further develop, and distribute
• Facilitated access to encourage delivery to developing countries

File Number: 2011-003