Unicorn Hat – Tubing Securment Device
Technology for License Summary
The Unicorn Hat is a wearable, endotracheal and ventilator tube securing device that ensures safe movement, transport and care of ventilated infants.
Background
Neonates requiring mechanical ventilation, particularly those who are extremely low birthweight or medically complex, critically benefit from kangaroo care for physiological stability and neurodevelopment. Despite its importance, safely securing endotracheal tubes during essential skin-to-skin contact and infant transport presents a significant challenge, as tube displacement or accidental extubation can lead to life-threatening events. Current approaches, such as taping or clipping ventilator tubing to external fixed points like parents’ garments or chairs, fail to accommodate natural infant or caregiver movements, causing tension and increasing the risk of tube dislodgement. Similarly, existing commercial securement devices, often utilizing adhesives and plastic arches, frequently do not move cohesively with the infant, thereby also increasing the risk of unplanned extubations during crucial care activities.
Technology
The Unicorn Hat – Tubing Securement Device is a modified CPAP hat designed to stabilize an endotracheal tube (ETT) in neonates, particularly during kangaroo care and transport. It incorporates hook and loop closures, foam bumpers, and unique cheek straps that wrap around the ETT to secure it without adhesives. This design secures the ventilator tubing to the crown of the infant’s head, allowing the baby and tubing to move as a single unit. This proximal securement system reduces tension on the ETT and minimizes the risk of tube displacement or accidental extubation, thereby enhancing safety during transfers and skin-to-skin holding.
Advantages
- Enhances tube stability during kangaroo care
- Eliminates skin related issues from adhesive contact
- Simplifies set-up, assembly and attaching system to patients
- Facilitates longer and more frequent skin-to-skin contact sessions