The idea:

A group of anesthesiologists from UF who worked with Xhale, Inc. (a local start up business which focuses on monitored exhaled breath), asked about a materials issue in detecting hand washing compliance in a hospital setting. Because of the strong overlap with expertise from Xhale, they were able to rapidly design, develop and test a system that includes a badge worn by the health care professional, a bedside monitor, and a washing station monitor

Reducing to practice:

This next step was very rapid because previous contacts for each aspect were in place.

Commercialization:

Commercialization was rapid because of the pre-existing channels, a very strong perceived need, and a method in place that had problems with implementation (rules and checklists). Popular Science magazine recently named HyGreen as one of the top technologies in 2009.

Xhale Home Page

Hygreen Hand Hygiene System

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