High accuracy of automated respiratory rate readings in a novel, non-contact home monitor

Abstract

Introduction: Respiratory Rate (RR) is essential yet clinically underutilised; long term solutions for passive, automated RR monitoring are lacking. Gold-standard polysomnographic devices (PSG) require lengthy manual RR counts, uncomfortable wearable sensors and disrupt sleep. The CE-marked Albus Home Research Device (RD) is a non-contact, automated respiratory monitoring solution.

Aims and objectives: To demonstrate accuracy of continuous RR readings by Albus Home RD.

Methods: Adults and children were monitored overnight with the non-contact Albus Home RD and wearable gold-standard PSG (SOMNOtouch RESP). Albus Home RD reported RR data (in breaths/minute) throughout the night in 30-second segments from participants’ bedsides in their usual sleeping conditions. For standardisation, the first 120 minutes per participant-night of continuous Albus Home RD RR were compared to manual clinician-counted PSG RR from thoracoabdominal respiratory effort belt traces; time-intensive manual PSG counts restricted comparison length. Duration to report RR was recorded per device. As per previous literature, accurate RRs were within +/-10% or +/-2 breaths/minute of PSG RR.

Results: 11 participants (6M:5F) were monitored (7 adults:4 children) at home. In the first 120 minutes per participant of Albus Home RD RR, available PSG RR counts averaged 115 minutes.

Conclusions: Albus Home RD is a novel, non-contact device to accurately measure respiratory rate, overcoming issues of non-adherence. Its rapid automated approach, without need for manual analysis, enables scalable, long term monitoring in care and research.