During the COVID-19 pandemic, biosensors have become increasingly utilized as a part of a home monitoring and management tool. This is an example of the VitalPatch biosensor.

This biosensor is a disposable, wireless, battery-operated wearable device. The unit is worn overlying the left hemithorax and lasts for seven days.

The unit may have a single zinc-air battery (higher capacity) as per the dedicated device images or an alternative battery configuration as in the actual example on the presenting patient having a cloverleaf pattern of three-button (zinc or lithium ) batteries. 

This unit measures eight vital signs including heart rate, heart rate variability, single-lead ECG, respiratory rate, temperature, body posture, fall detection, and activity. The unit can integrate blood pressure, weight, and oxygen saturation when linked to additional compatible devices.

Remotely monitoring the above vital signs prevents repeated healthcare worker exposure to SARS-CoV-2.

Importantly, this unit is not MRI compatible and can cause potential burn injury to the patient or cause mechanical damage to the MRI and its components. It can also cause ongoing artifacts due to metallic fragments in the MRI tunnel and table mechanism. It is easily removed before imaging and reattached post the MRI examination.

The unit is somewhat waterproof and can be worn during bathing or showering.

Initial Chest X-ray contributed by Dr M.N. Patel, Johannesburg, South Africa.

Disclosure: I, Ashesh I Ranchod, have no actual or potential ethical or financial conflict of interest in relation to this device. This case is not intended to be a personal endorsement or recommendation of this product.