Measuring change in a respiratory parameter over time to detect acute events and trends

摘要

Disclosed is an apparatus (100) adapted to determine the likelihood of an acute exacerbation occurring in a patient with respiratory insufficiency. The apparatus (100) is comprised of at least one sensor (106) adapted to measure at least one respiratory parameter of the patient and a controller (104). The controller (104) is coupled to the at least one sensor (106) and is con figured to evaluate the respiratory parameter measured at an at least one first time with the respiratory parameter measured at a subsequent second time. From this evaluation the controller (104) may determine when changes in the respiratory parameter are occurring. When a change in the respiratory parameter is determined, the level of change and the length of time between the at least one first time and second time are evaluated to determine the likelihood of an acute exacerbation occurring.