Innovating Medical Devices in the Midst of a Crisis: Lessons from an Intravenous Electronic Drop Counter in the 2014-2016 Ebola Outbreak

Abstract

This paper addresses the challenges associated with innovating in the midst of a crisis, especially in the area of healthcare and medical device development. A case study is presented that follows the progression of a commercialization stage prototype into a validated tool for use during the Ebola outbreak in West Africa in 2014-2016. An electronic drop counter was subjected to usability and environmental testing to adapt it for medication management in Ebola Treatment Units. The case study demonstrates the crucial role that relationships and partnerships play in transitioning technological innovations into clinical environments, how logistical challenges can be mitigated, and the importance of achieving alignment between clinical needs and subsequent technical and contextual validation that prioritizes patient safety and outcomes. As a result of years of work including and following the detailed case study, we conclude by suggesting generalized best-practices and lessons for adapting a technology to disaster preparedness or crisis situations.