Patent ID: 12245649

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific illustrative embodiments. However, it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that logical, mechanical, and electrical changes may be made. Furthermore, any methods presented in the drawing figures and the specification is not to be construed as limiting the order in which the individual steps may be performed. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

Due to shortcomings in existing patient gowns, there is a need for a patient gown that both allows for a convenient and expeditious examination of a patient but at the same time enhances the comfort of a patient. There is a need for a patient gown that enhances the comfort of a patient by increasing their self-image while they wear the gown. There is a need for a patient gown that provides a more tailored and more stylish fit to a patient. There is a need for a patient gown that allows for the access and exposure of select areas of a patient's body while at the same time maintaining coverage of the portions of the patient's body that do not require examination.

Patients, especially women, may have experienced sexual trauma and many with this history are reluctant to see medical providers because of current gown issues. Being able to close one's own gown and not need to reveal their entire body when only a small area needs to be examined diminishes having to relive their trauma. Also, some women only have the function of one hand or arm; these women are able to close their gowns on their own with a front entry and large coupling and/or fastening devices. Additionally, women suffer more from arthritis than men, and they too need a gown which they can feel secure and able to close on their own, with front coupling and/or fastening devices. Thus, improving a patient's sense of dignity by allowing them control over their gown improves patient-doctor communication and care.

The present patient gown is designed to provide full access to important areas of the patient during an examination while at the same time preserving the comfort and dignity of the patient. In addition, the present patient gown is designed to fit patients of varying sizes and to provide a more tailored fit to patients. One embodiment of the present invention patient gown includes a combination blouse and skirt. To put the patient gown on, the patient simply unties and opens the front of the blouse portion and opens the front of the skirt portion. Next, the user puts either arm through either of the sleeves in the blouse portion and pulls both sides of the front of the blouse together thereby closing the blouse portion. The user then adjusts the skirt portion by wrapping the skirt around the lower portion of their body until the waist of the skirt is extended to a comfortable fit and then secures the skirt portion. The user then secures the left and right front portions of the blouse to one another using ties that are attached to both portions of the blouse near the centerline of the blouse.

FIGS.1-22provide detailed drawings of embodiments of the present patient gown.FIGS.1-5show one embodiment of the present patient gown of a particular size as worn by patients within the size range.FIGS.6-9illustrate one embodiment of the present patient gown showing various front views of the gown.FIGS.10-11illustrate various views of the back of the present patient gown.FIG.12illustrates one embodiment of the present patient gown with the skirt portion in an open position.FIGS.13-16show the various fabric panels that are joined together to manufacture one embodiment of the present patient gown.FIGS.17-22depict additional embodiments of the present patient gown.

As illustrated inFIGS.1-2, one embodiment of the present patient gown10includes a blouse portion12that covers the upper torso of the patient from about the patient's neck to the patient's waistline and a skirt portion14that covers the lower body of the patient from about the patient's waistline to the patient's knees. The front16of the blouse portion12includes two panels, a right upper torso panel18and a left upper torso panel20. The front panels18and20normally abut when in a closed position along a pleat22that runs down the center of the front of the blouse portion12. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG.1, ties24are attached to both the left and right panels20,18adjacent the center pleat. The ties24are used to both draw and secure the right and left panels18,20to one another in a manner that is convenient for the patient, accommodates a range of breast sizes while providing comfort and dignity, and provides an attractive appearance. Although ties are preferred in theFIG.1embodiment, other coupling and/or fastening devices configured to secure the left and right panels to one another could be used. The top26of the patient gown10(and top of the blouse portion12) includes an opening from which the neck and head of the patient extends. The blouse portion12also includes left and right sleeves28,30. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG.1, the sleeves28,30are depicted as extending from about the top26and along the patient's shoulders to a point midway between the patient's shoulder and patient's elbow. In other embodiments, the length of the sleeves28,30can vary from no sleeve at all to a full sleeve extending from the top of the patient's shoulder to about the patient's wrist. As is inherent in the fit of a blouse, the blouse portion12of the embodiment illustrated inFIG.1is designed to fit a patient in a loosely and conformal way. This can be seen from the way the left sleeve28fits the patient inFIG.1.

The embodiment of the patient gown illustrated inFIG.1includes a skirt portion14that is a wrap-around type skirt. As is known in the art, a wrap-around skirt is basically a substantially rectangular piece of fabric that wraps around the lower portion of a wearer's body and wraps over itself. The skirt may be tapered at the hem if desired to obtain a tailored appearance. A wrap-around type skirt allows for convenient access to the patient's lower body for examination purposes. Although not illustrated inFIG.1, the skirt portion14also includes suitable means (described in greater detail below) for securing the top layer of the skirt to the bottom layer of the skirt at the desired fit.

The front16of the blouse portion12also includes panel holders. Two fastening tabs32,34are located at or about the top end part of each sleeve portion and two other fastening tabs36,38are located at or about the bottom of each of the front blouse panels18,20adjacent the center vertical pleat22along the front of the blouse. The tab fasteners36,38on each respective panel cooperate to define left and right panel holders. As illustrated inFIG.5and below, both the left and right front upper torso panels18,20(also referred to as the right and left bodices) can be held in an open position by placing the lower fastening tab adjacent the bottom of each right and left bodices in contact with the upper fastening tab adjacent the end of each sleeve. The panel holders allow an examination of the patient to take place without requiring either the examiner or the patient to hold the bodices in an open position. In the case of a breast exam, for example, the patient may hold her arm near the breast being examined at a prescribed position to facilitate the examination, rather than at a position for holding the panel, which might interfere with the examination.

As mentioned earlier, the embodiment illustrated inFIG.1also includes blouse ties24for securing the right and left bodices18,20to one another thereby closing the center vertical pleat22in the front16of the blouse12. As better illustrated inFIGS.5-6, the ties24are typically secured to the surface of each bodice at a certain distance spaced horizontally from the center vertical edges of the bodices18and20. By spacing the ties24horizontally away from the center vertical edges of the bodices18and20of the blouse, the blouse portion12is able to fit patients of varying chest sizes while maintaining the pleat22. Alternatively, the ties on one of the bodices18,20may be positioned near the vertical edge while the ties on the other bodices20,19are horizontally spaced away from the vertical edge, to provide an overlap rather than a pleat.

In addition, the coupling and/or fastening devices provided with the skirt portion14are typically adjustable. For example, in one embodiment, a strip of hook and loop fastening material may be run along the waistline of the lower layer of the skirt portion and a matching strip of hook and loop material may be run along the inside of the top layer of the skirt portion. Such a configuration will allow the waistline of the skirt portion to be adjusted in accordance with the waistline of the patient. Additional description of the skirt portion14coupling and/or fastening devices is provided inFIG.12and corresponding text below.

FIG.2illustrates the back of the patient gown illustrated inFIG.1. The back40of the blouse portion12also includes a right42and left44upper torso portion (also referred to as right and left back panels). The right and left back panels42,44are united adjacent the top46of the back40of the blouse portion12or at the back48of the neckline76of the neck and head opening. In one embodiment, the right and left back upper torso panels42,44overlap one another forming a back overlap seam50. Beneath the back overlap seam50is a center vertical slit52that runs from the top26of the blouse back to the waistline64of the blouse back.

Because the back upper torso panels42,44are preferably united near the top along the neckline76, it is possible for an examiner to separate the back panels along the center vertical slit52in the back of the blouse to access the patient during an examination. As illustrated inFIGS.2and11, the back60of the skirt portion14along the center61of the skirt portion also includes a vertical slit62extending from the top64of the skirt portion14or waistline of the patient gown to approximately three to five inches downward. The vertical slit62in the back of the skirt is designed so that it is in alignment with the vertical slit52in the back of the blouse, thereby forming a continuous vertical slit63from the back neckline closure48of the blouse to the end of the vertical slit62in the back of the skirt. As described further below, the blouse portion12and skirt portion14are fastened to one another along the back waistline64of the patient gown on the bottom66of the right and left back upper torso panels, thereby maintaining the overlap50and drawing the waistline64snug to maintain the comfort and dignity of the patient when an examination of the back is not being performed.

A lower back closure68is provided adjacent the waistline64of the patient gown along the center vertical slit63under the overlap50in the back of the patient gown. In one embodiment, hook-and-loop fastener tabs are attached to the surface of the patient gown. The lower back closure is provided to ensure that the vertical slit extending down the center of the back of the patient gown remains closed when the patient is not being examined, while being easily undone during an examination to provide examiner access. As illustrated inFIG.11and discussed further below, when the lower back closure is opened, extensive access is provided to the back of the patient for examination.

As mentioned above, both the blouse portion12and the skirt portion14of the present patient gown can accommodate different sized patients within a considerable range of sizes. In one embodiment, three different sizes of the gown, small, medium, and large, cover a range of sizes from women's size two to women's size twelve and larger.FIG.3illustrates a smaller patient wearing a small or medium size embodiment of the present patient gown. When worn by a smaller patient, the blouse ties will be drawn tightly to provide a good fit to the patient. Correspondingly, the skirt portion will be wrapped around the lower body of the smaller patient such that the skirt overlap seam72is closer to the left side71of the skirt (or right side73depending on whether the skirt is configured to wrap in either a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction) thereby providing a smaller diameter of the waistline to better fit the smaller waistline of the smaller patient.

FIG.4shows a larger patient wearing a large size embodiment of the present patient gown. In order to provide a good fit to a large patient, the blouse ties will be more loosely tied than when worn by a smaller patient or as illustrated inFIG.3. As mentioned above, because the ties are attached with the surface of the blouse at a horizontal spacing away from the centerline of the blouse, the blouse portion can be adjusted depending on how tightly or loosely the ties are tied while maintaining the pleat22. With the large size patient, the range of adjustment is greater than with the other size embodiments. Also in contrast onFIG.3, the skirt overlap seam72on a larger patient will typically be more centrally located with respect to the lower body of the larger patient. Basically, the top portion of the skirt is moved further along the waistline, thereby increasing the diameter of the waistline to correspond to the larger waistline of a larger patient. In addition, the large size embodiment includes fastener25, such as a hook and loop fastener or other type of fastener, along the neckline. Because the large size embodiment includes a larger range of adjustment, the neckline must sometimes be fastened to ensure a proper fit for the patient. The right and left bodices18,20of the large size embodiment also includes an extended bottom portion21. The extended bottom portion21provides additional coverage for larger patients.

FIG.5illustrates one embodiment of the present patient gown10with the left bodice20in an open position. During an examination, it may be necessary for the examiner to examine all or part of the upper torso of the patient. InFIG.5, the blouse portion12is in an open position to allow an examiner to examine the left upper torso portion of the patient. To open the blouse portion, the blouse ties24are untied and left hanging in an untied position. Depending on which panel the examiner desires to open (in some cases both), the particular panel holder tab36,38located in the lower center corner of the front bodice18,20is lifted away from the patient and placed in contact with the panel holder tab32,34located at the top of the blouse near the end of the left sleeve on the same panel. In the embodiment inFIG.5, the left bodice20is held in the open position by the left panel holder32,36.

Also, in the embodiment inFIG.5, the panel holder tabs are fabricated from hook-and-loop fastener material. In one embodiment, the hook-and-loop fastener material used for the tab32,34located at the top of the blouse near the end of the sleeve is composed of the abrasive portion of the hook-and-loop fastener material. In contrast, the panel holder tab36,38located adjacent the lower corner portion of the bodice near the centerline of the blouse is composed of the softer portion of the hook-and-loop fastener material. This is done to ensure that during connection of the left panel holder tabs no abrasive materials are inadvertently pressed against the body of the patient. In fact, in any instances where hook and loop fastener materials are used in the present patient gown, the softer component of the hook and loop fastener material can be configured to be facing inwardly toward the patient during use while the abrasive component of the hook and loop fastener material can be configured to be facing outwardly from the patient during use.

Although inFIG.5only the left bodice is retained in an open position by the left panel holder, if necessary, the right bodice may also be held in an open position by an identical right panel holder to allow the examiner to examine the entire upper torso of the patient at the same time.FIG.8illustrates one embodiment of the present patient gown having both the right and left panels held in an open position by the right and left panel holding tabs. Additional description ofFIG.8is provided below.

Also shown inFIG.5is the fastener of the skirt portion. In theFIG.5embodiment and disclosed in greater detail below and inFIG.12, a strip of hook and loop-type fastener is connected to the waistline portion of the skirt portion on both the bottom layer of the skirt portion and the overlapping top layer of the skirt portion. As mentioned before, the component of the hook and loop material that is facing outwardly from the patient (in this case, the strip on the bottom layer of the skirt portion) is abrasive, and the strip of hook and loop fastener material facing inwardly toward the patient is soft to the touch.

FIGS.6-9illustrate the front of one embodiment of the present patient gown, as it might appear when laid out on a flat surface. InFIG.6, the blouse portion12of the patient gown10is in a closed but untied configuration. The right bodice18is overlapping the left bodice20, and the blouse ties24used to connect the right and left bodices are untied and hanging from their respective bodices. As clearly illustrated inFIG.6, the blouse portion includes panel fastener tabs32,34,36,38that are used to hold the bodices in an open position during examination. The fastener tabs are located on each panel at the top32,34of the panel near the end of the respective sleeve and at the bottom36,38of the panel along the waistline64of the blouse adjacent the portion of the bodice closest to the center slit. As clearly illustrated inFIG.6, in a closed position, the top26of the blouse12includes a head or neck opening74defined by a neckline76.

InFIG.7, one embodiment of the present patient gown10is illustrated with the right bodice18retained in an open position by the right panel holder34,38. In contrast, the left bodice20remains in a position that continues to provide coverage to the remainder of the patient's upper torso. In bothFIGS.6and7, the skirt portion14remains in a closed position.

FIG.8illustrates one embodiment of the present patient gown10with both the right and left bodices18,20held in the open position by the respective panel holders32,34,36,38. The configuration inFIG.8allows the examiner extensive access to the upper torso of the patient during the examination.

FIG.9illustrates one embodiment of the present patient gown10in a fully closed configuration. The blouse ties24are all tied to draw the right and left bodices18,20together thereby closing the blouse center slit or opening22. The skirt portion14is also in a closed position.

FIGS.10aand11illustrate the back of one embodiment of the present patient gown10. As illustrated inFIG.10aand described above, the back40of the blouse portion12includes both a right42and a left44upper torso panel. The right and left upper torso panels cover the back upper torso of the patient. Although not shown inFIG.10a, the top of the blouse portion includes a neck or head opening74defining a neckline76as illustrated inFIG.6. In addition, the left and right upper back torso panels define the back side of the left28and right30sleeves. As illustrated inFIG.10a, the left and right upper torso panels are configured such that they overlap at the center of the gown back. As mentioned earlier above, the back overlap seam50is joined together at the top of the blouse back adjacent the neckline. The remainder of the back overlap seam50extending downwardly toward the waistline64of the blouse is not joined together and can be separated by an examiner to expose the back of the patient. As mentioned above, the bottom portions of the left and right back upper torso panels are connected with the top portion of the back of the skirt portion along the waistline of the gown. In the embodiment illustrated inFIGS.10aand11, the bottom portions118,130(seeFIG.14) of the left and right back upper torso panels are only connected with the skirt along a portion of the top edges146,148(seeFIG.15) of the skirt tailoring panels82,84at seams137,139. Because the blouse portion is generally fabricated to fit a medium size patient rather loosely, the opening between the blouse portion and skirt portion along the back waistline is typically covered by overhanging portions141,143of the blouse (seeFIG.2). Such a design allows patients additional mobility while wearing the patient gown and allows greater access to the patient during examinations. The skirt portion14also includes a vertical slit62located in the back center61of the skirt portion extending from the waistline64downwardly. This slit is also known as the lower back opening62and can be of varying length but in some embodiments is about three inches. As illustrated inFIGS.10a-11, the center vertical slit or opening52that resides beneath the back overlap beneath the center of the left and right back upper torso panels is in alignment with the lower back slit or opening62to form a continuous back opening63. At the top and adjacent the neckline on the back of the blouse, the back opening63is joined together at closure48to define the back of the neckline of the blouse. At the bottom end of the back opening, the back opening is joined together by one of the skirt portion tailored seams.

As illustrated inFIG.11, an examiner can gain substantial access to the back of a patient by pulling the left and right back upper torso panels away from each other to enlarge the back opening. The back opening can include a closure68to ensure that it remains closed when the patient is not being examined. In one embodiment, the back closure68is located at the waistline64of the patient gown or adjacent to the lower back of the patient. When in a closed position, the lower back closure holds both the left and right back upper torso panels in their overlapped position and causes the lower back slit or opening to also overlap thereby causing the entire back opening to remain in a position that fully covers the back of the patient.

FIG.10billustrates an alternative embodiment of the blouse portion illustrated inFIG.10a. In some embodiments, the back upper torso panels42,44are joined with the skirt portion all along the waistline64and not just to the tailoring panels82,84. Some embodiments also include side access slits78,79. Along both sides of the patient's body along the seams that connect the right and left bodices18,20with the right and left back upper torso panels42,44are slits78,79extending from about the waistline64upwardly. The slits can vary in length but typically are no longer than approximately three inches. The purpose of each slit is to allow the examiner greater access to the side of the patient's torso in the area adjacent the slit.

FIG.12illustrates one embodiment of the present patient gown10with the blouse portion12in a fully closed position and the skirt portion14in a fully open position. The embodiment inFIG.12shows that the skirt portion includes several different panels80,82,84,86stitched together. The two larger panels80,86wrap around the lower body of the patient and overlap each other. In some embodiments, the larger left-most80and right-most86panels will be joined together by one or more center panels82,84. The center panels82,84are generally used to provide the skirt portion with a more tailored fit to the wearer. The overlap panel or left most panel80inFIG.12includes a strip88of fastening material along the waistline64at the top of the panel. Strip88is actually located on the interior of the skirt portion or the side of the skirt portion that faces the patient and is not exposed to the outside. In contrast, the right-most panel86includes a matching strip90of fastening material along the top of the panel on the outside of the skirt portion. Thus, to close the skirt portion so that it matches the configuration shown inFIGS.8-9, the right-most panel is wrapped around the lower body of the wearer toward the front center area of the lower body of the wearer and the left-most panel is wrapped around the wearer toward the centerline of the front of the wearer and over the right-most panel86. The fastener strips88,90are thus caused to come in contact with one another thereby holding the various panels of the skirt portion together. Note that the skirt may be fabricated such that the right-most panel86wraps over the left most panel80. In such an embodiment, the strips88,90of fastening material would be configured opposite to that above.

In one embodiment, a hook and loop fastening material is used as the skirt waist fastener. As mentioned above, the abrasive component of the hook and loop fastener material is typically placed on the outside of the skirt portion so that it is facing away from the wearer and the soft component of the hook and loop fastener is placed on the inside of the skirt panel so that it is facing toward the wearer. This is done to ensure that no abrasive materials come in contact with the body of the wearer.

FIGS.13-16illustrate an exemplary set of fabric panels that are joined together to form one embodiment of the present patient gown. The blouse portion of the patient gown is formed by four fabric panes: 1) a right front upper torso panel18; 2) a left front upper torso panel20; 3) a right back upper torso panel42; and 4) a left back upper torso panel44.

The right front upper torso panel includes a right top edge92, a right neckline edge94, a right inside edge96, a right bottom edge97, a right outside edge98, and a right sleeve edge100. The left front upper torso panel includes a left top edge102, a left sleeve edge104, a left outside edge106, a left bottom edge108, a left inside edge110, and a left neckline edge112. The edges of the front upper torso panels define the perimeter of each panel.

The left back upper torso panel includes a left top edge114, a left neckline edge116, a left inside edge117, a left bottom edge118, a left outside edge120, and a left sleeve edge122. The right back upper torso panel similarly includes a right top edge124, a right sleeve edge126, a right outside edge128, a right bottom edge130, a right inside edge132, and a right neckline edge134. The edges of the back upper torso panels define the perimeter of each of these panels.

As illustrated inFIGS.6-7, the blouse portion12is generally fabricated by joining the right outside edge98of the right front upper torso panel to the right outside edge128of the right back upper torso panel to form a right side seam136, joining the left outside edge106of the left front upper torso panel to the left outside edge120of the left back upper torso panel to form a left side seam138, joining the right top edge92of the right front upper torso panel to the right top edge124of the right back upper torso panel to form a right top seam or right shoulder seam140, joining the left top edge102of the left front upper torso panel to the left top edge114of the left back upper torso panel to form a left top seam or left shoulder seam142, and joining the left and right neckline edges116,134along the left and right inside edges117,132on the back upper torso panels to form the neckline back closure48.

The result of creating the seams mentioned in the previous paragraph is the formation of a loosely but conformally fitting blouse having right and left sleeves with open free ends, a vest-like blouse front with a center vertical pleat, and a blouse back that includes a closed back neckline with a center vertical slit or opening that extends from the neckline closure to the bottom edges of the back upper torso panes. In one embodiment, the left and right back upper torso panels are overlapped so that the slit running down and between the left and right back upper torso panels is typically covered by the overlapping back upper torso panels.

As illustrated inFIG.15and inFIG.12, in one embodiment of the present patient gown, the skirt portion is composed of several substantially rectangular panels: a skirt overlap panel or left-most panel80; a first tailoring panel82; a second tailoring panel84; and a skirt bottom or right-most panel86. All of the skirt panels include a top edge144,146,148,150, a bottom edge152,154,156,158, an outside edge160,162,164,166, and an inside edge168,170,172,174. The skirt portion is generally fabricated by joining the inside edge168of the skirt overlap panel80to the first tailoring panel outside edge162to form a first tailored seam176. Next, the inside edge170of the first tailored panel82is joined to the inside edge172of the second tailoring panel84to form a second tailored seam178. The outside edge164of the second tailoring panel84is then joined to the inside edge174of the skirt bottom panel86to form a third tailored seam180. Also, when the skirt tailoring panels are connected with one another, a slit or opening62, is allowed in the top center of the tailoring panels as described above.

In some embodiments, the tailoring panel seams may be tailored so that the bottom of the skirt27is caused to curve toward the patient. This can be achieved by reducing the width of each tailoring panel from the top edges146,148to the bottom edges154,156. Such a design may be preferable in that it can prevent the skirt portion from opening thereby providing additional coverage for the patient while they are in a seated position.

In one embodiment of the skirt portion, the skirt portion includes one or more pleats along the waistline and extending downwardly. The pleats are formed by gathering and joining together a portion of the waistline material. Pleats sometimes provide a better fit to the patient.

In other embodiments of the present patient gown, the skirt portion may be fabricated from fewer panels or more panels providing the skirt portion is configured to provide the wearer with a comfortable and tailored fit. To complete the fabrication of the main body of the patient gown, the left and right bottom edges118,130of the left and right back upper torso panels44,42are joined with a portion of the top edges146,148of the skirt tailoring panels82,84to form left and right waistline seams137,139(seeFIGS.2, and10aand10b).

As mentioned above, various coupling and/or fastening devices are connected with the blouse portion and skirt portion to complete the fabrication of the patient gown. In one embodiment, the blouse portion includes ties for connecting the right front upper torso panel with the left front upper torso panel and tabs for holding both front upper torso panels in an open position.

The skirt portion of the patient gown includes coupling and/or fastening devices along the waistline for adhering the front or overlap panel with the skirt back panel. Finally, coupling and/or fastening devices may be provided along the center back opening of the blouse back to ensure the center vertical slit in the blouse back remains in the closed position when the patient is not being examined.

AlthoughFIGS.13-14illustrate an embodiment that includes multiple fabric panels, the present patient gown can also be fabricated using a fewer or greater number of panels.FIGS.16aand16billustrate an embodiment that includes only two fabric panels182,184. As illustrated inFIG.16a, the right bodice18, left bodice20, right back upper torso panel42, left back upper torso panel44, and skirt portion14are all cut from one fabric panel182and as illustrated inFIG.16ba back overlap panel184is cut from a second fabric panel186. Back overlap panel184is joined with the first fabric panel182along back slit63to cover back slit63when the patient is not being examined.

As mentioned above, although hook and loop fastener material is used in the embodiments illustrated and described herein, other types of fasteners are contemplated for use in the present patient gown. It is preferred that the fasteners used in the present are adjustable to accommodate different sized patients and must not inhibit the comfort of the patient. Examples include but are not limited to ties, materials such as spandex or elastic, or adjustable sliding seams. Although not preferred, in some embodiments buttons, zippers, and even snaps may be utilized.

In other embodiments, a self-adhering, re-configurable wire-type frame may be incorporated within portions of the patient gown along various seams to hold portions of the gown in open or closed positions. For example, the right and left bodices may include a self-adhering re-configurable frame around the panel perimeter that will hold the panels in an open or partially-open position depending on the situation. Such a frame could also be used along the waistline of the skirt portion.

In still another embodiment, magnetic coupling devices (such as magnetic tabs or strips) could be used in various portions of the patient gown in place of hook and loop fasteners. The magnetic coupling devices could be used to maintain the positioning of either the bodices, the skirt waistline, or the lower back closure.

Regarding the blouse portion and bodices in particular, it is possible to have an embodiment where the bodices do not include fasteners. In such an embodiment, the bodices may overlap and be held in place by the weight of the panels themselves. Similarly, the weight and length of the bodices may allow them to be held in an open position by folding them back and over the shoulders of the patient.

In still another embodiment, the blouse portion and skirt portion may not be connected. In such an embodiment, the patient could wear either portion alone or in combination with the other portion. Depending on the type of examination required, the patient may only be required to wear one of the portions thereby allowing the patient to remain at least partially clothed in their own garments.

In another embodiment, additional fasteners may be added to both the front of the blouse portion and the front of the skirt portion to removably attach to the front of the blouse portion with the adjacent front of the skirt portion.

In addition to the needs identified above, there is also a need for a patient and doctor-centered gown that both enables greater privacy for the patient and easier and more selective examination by the doctor or medical professional. Such a need has become even more evident considering the shortage and demand for patient gowns due (at least in no small part) by the unprecedented number of individuals affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly the alarming rates of occupancy in hospitals and other health facilities. Existing gowns either falter because they lack the durability to adequately clothe the patient during an examination (in such a case, typically wearing multiple gowns is required), or because existing gowns lack the flexibility to selectively examine the patient without exposing areas the patient does not want exposed. As evident from the disclosure as a whole, the embodiments described herein provide a solution that benefits both professionals and patients alike.

FIGS.17a-22illustrate additional examples of a patient gown (in one example, a Malama Dutch Gown) that is worn by a user while undergoing medical treatment at a hospital or other medical/health facility (e.g., paramedical facility, alternative/holistic health facility, etc.).FIGS.17aand17billustrate a front and back view, respectively, of one example of the patient gown.FIGS.18aand18billustrate a front and back view, respectively, of an alternative example of the patient gown.FIG.19illustrates an example of the patient gown as it is worn by a patient.FIG.20illustrates an example of a pocket that can be placed on a lower portion of the patient gown.FIGS.21a-21cillustrate additional examples and details of the coupling between the upper and lower portions of a patient gown.FIG.22illustrates an additional example of a patient gown.

Referring toFIGS.17aand17b, when worn by a patient1701, in some examples the gown body (comprising a first upper portion1702, second upper portion1704, and lower portion1712) can be worn by the patient1701when in a hospital setting and/or when being examined by a medical professional. Specifically referring toFIG.17a, patient gown1700includes a first upper portion1702, second upper portion1704, and lower portion1712. The first upper portion1702and second upper portion1704can be coupled together in the front of the patient gown1700through a fastening region1715that in some examples extends from the collar1718to the lower portion1712. Fastening region1715can include one or more fastening devices. The front of collar1718is in some examples configured to be 1-2 inches below the collarbone of patient1701.

In some examples, one or more ties1708are included along the fastening region1715and can be used to tie the first upper portion1702, second upper portion1704, and/or lower portion1712together when not being examined. In addition to (or instead of) using one or more ties1708, the fastening region1715can include other fasteners1723such as adhesive material (e.g., Velcro etc.) and/or one or more coupling devices (e.g. snaps, etc.) along the length of the fastening region to couple the first upper portion1702, second upper portion1704, and/or lower portion1712together when not being examined by a medical professional. As an example, fastening region1715can include one or more coupling devices (such as snaps) in at least 3 locations: one positioned near the neckline (or collar) of the patient, one positioned right below the breastline of the patient, and one positioned near the intersection with horizontal seam1717approximately at the waistline. In some embodiments, the ties or other fasteners are positioned equidistant along fastening region1715. The adhesive material and/or fasteners can be configured to be easily separable for patients who have difficulties or pain with hand movements (e.g., arthritic patients). When undergoing examination, the fastening region1715can be opened to expose the frontal region of the patient1701. By including the one or more ties1708or other fasteners1723such as adhesive material, and/or coupling device(s), the patient1701may undergo examination of the frontal region without having to remove or fully de-couple the first upper portion1702and second upper portion1704.

In some examples, patient gown1700includes one or more ties, adhesive material, and/or coupling devices (hereinafter first coupler1721) located on the exterior surface1720of the shoulder or shoulder region of first upper portion1702and/or second upper portion1704(shown inFIG.17A). When fastening region1715is opened, the ties1708or other fasteners1723, can then couple with first coupler1721at the shoulder region. For example, if a medical professional needs to examine the left chest area of patient1701(e.g., a breast examination), second upper portion1704can be moved upwards to expose the chest area seeFIG.17C. To secure second upper portion1704so that it does not interfere with or otherwise hinder the examination of the exposed area, one or more of ties1708or other fasteners1723can connect to the first coupler1721located on the shoulder region and secure second upper portion1704. This also enables first upper portion1702to remain closed while the medical professional examines the exposed areas of second upper portion1702. When examination of the exposed area has finished, the connection can be de-coupled. First upper portion1702can function in a similar fashion. Configuring the shoulder region of first upper portion1702and/or second upper portion1704to have the first coupler1720compatible with ties1708and/or other fasteners1723enables easier and more selective examination while the of the body not being examined can remain covered.

The one or more ties1708can be configured to serve a temporary storage purpose. For example, tie1708can be made of a suitable material that enables it to hold jewelry (e.g., earrings, body piercings, etc.) worn by patient1701. Patient1701can remove the jewelry and attach it to tie1708(for example, by tying the jewelry or piercing the fabric of tie1708) during examination. In doing so, the patient can easily remove the jewelry from tie1708once examination is complete instead of storing it someplace where it might be forgotten by the patient. This further enables jewelry to stay closely proximate to the patient's body while still enabling the patient to undergo many examination procedures (e.g., imaging procedures) that otherwise would not be operable because of jewelry affixed to the patient (such as a body piercing located at or near the anatomy being imaged).

The second upper portion1704is configured to engage with the first upper portion1702at or approximately near the waistline. of patient1701. For example, the first upper portion1702and second upper portion1704can be joined by a horizontal seam1717. In some embodiments, the horizontal seam1717can be located at or approximately near the waistline. In some examples, at least a portion of horizontal seam1717can separate from lower portion1712(for example, at the right or left side of patient gown1700); this separation may continue to the front part of patient gown1700as well.

As shown inFIG.17a, in some examples, a portion of the second upper portion1704crosses over the first upper portion1702or vice-versa, in an approximately diagonal manner at fastening region1715from collar1718to horizontal seam1717. For example, starting from the bottom of collar1718, second upper portion1704crosses over the first upper portion1702instead of intersecting with first upper portion1702straight downwards to horizontal seam1717. In some examples, the curvature of fastening region1715can be designed to couple first upper portion1702and second upper portion1704in between the breasts of patient1701and to couple the two portions diagonally in the lower chest region (e.g., upper abdomen or thorax/torso regions) of patient1701to horizontal seam1717. Configuring fastening region1715in this fashion helps to increase coverage of the breast area during examination so that a patient (particularly a woman patient) can feel more comfortable during periods of invasive examination.

Referring toFIG.17b, the upper portion of the gown body includes a vertical fastening region1719that may extend from collar1718to the bottom of lower portion1712(but in some examples only extends to a portion of the upper portion and lower portion1712). Vertical fastening region1719can be opened (e.g., at opening1714) to expose the patient's back and/or rear region during examination. Horizontal seam1717can be opened as shown inFIG.17bduring examination as well. In some examples, the vertical fastening region1719can include adhesive material (e.g., VELCRO etc.) and/or one or more coupling devices (e.g. snaps, etc.) along the length of the fastening region to couple the first upper portion1702, second upper portion1704, and/or lower portion1712together when not being examined by a medical professional.

FIGS.18aand18billustrate front and back views, respectively, of an example of a patient gown1800. InFIG.18a, the front collar1812is designed to rest below the collarbone and may be of any shape and covers the chest at least from the axillary line (e.g., the armpit) and below to the end of the waistline. In the example shown inFIG.18a, the sleeve1810is a circular (radial) design, which may be better suited for smaller or thinner patients. InFIG.18b, the sleeve1809is an elliptical design that may be better suited for larger patients. In other examples, the sleeve of the gown can have a different shape or profile. Sleeve1809in some examples can cover the patient's shoulders and can extend in a long-sleeve, short-sleeve, or any other length down to the patient's arm.

Similar toFIG.17a, patient gown1800includes a fastening region1802that connects the upper portions of patient gown1800. In the example shown inFIGS.18a-18b, the patient gown1800includes three ties1804. However, it should be understood that the patient gown1800can include one or more ties1804or no ties1804if an adhesive material or coupling device is used. Lower portion1808can be coupled to upper portion1806via a horizontal seam1816. In some examples, the lower portion1808can be separate from the upper portion1806. Patient gown1800further includes a vertical fastening region1818that, when opened (e.g., at opening1814) can expose the back and/or rear regions of the patient during examination. Vertical fastening region1818in some examples includes a fastening region1815made of an adhesive material or that includes a coupling device that connects the upper portions of patient gown1800together, and which can be de-coupled when the patient needs to be examined.

In some examples of patient gowns1700,1800, the fastening regions1715,1802can include one or more snaps that connect first upper portion and second upper portion together. In some such examples, the snaps can be approximately 0.75 inches in diameter. In some such examples, a snap can be coupled to the inner lower corner that connects first upper portion (for example, first upper portion1702) and second upper portion (for example, second upper portion1704). Furthermore, in some embodiments the vertical fastening regions1719,1818and horizontal seam1717,1816intersect at or approximately near the patient's waistline. Also shown inFIG.18A, patient gown1800and any other of the patient gown embodiments described herein includes one or more coupling devices1805a. The coupling devices1805acan be positioned near the intersection of the bottom of the neckline and the fastening region1802, although in other examples are located in other parts of the fastening region1802. Coupling device1805ais configured to couple to a corresponding coupling device1805blocated near the top of the shoulder of the gown1800. When multiple coupling devices1805aare used, each coupling device1805acan couple to a respective coupling device1805b. For example, coupling device1805acan be a male snap that couples to a female snap1805b. Additionally, the coupling device1805acan couple to coupling device1805bwhile other coupling devices (such as tie1804) at the fastening region1802couple the first upper portion1702and second upper portion1704together. In doing so, the patient gown1800provides selective exposure to frontal regions instead of exposing the totality of the patient's upper body to the medical examiner. Coupling devices1805a,1805bcan be placed in other parts of the patient gown1800or any of the exemplary patient gowns described herein.

FIG.19illustrates an embodiment of a patient gown that is worn by a patient while undergoing medical examination or care, such as by the patient gowns described with respect toFIGS.17a-18babove. Patient gown1900can be made of a soft cloth or other material that is comfortable for patient1902yet is resistant to tearing. Preferred materials are those which in some examples are sufficiently opaque so that the patient's body or body contours are not visible when exposed to highly lit environments. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first upper portion1904and second upper portion1906can overlap with the lower portion1908. Patient gown1900is designed so that patient1900can be more comfortable and at ease during medical examination (particularly for women). The first upper portion1904and second upper portion1906is configured to open in the front at fastening region1910for easier access to patient1902frontal areas without requiring patient1902to take off the entire gown. Lower portion1908is configured to wrap around the waistline of patient1902and closes at a vertical fastening region (not shown inFIG.19). The back of patient gown1900can include one or more hooks or loops (not shown inFIG.19) configured to close lower portion1908. In some embodiments, sleeves1912can resemble a kimono-style design or other design that reduces or minimizes the number of seams along the sleeve regions of the patient gown.

FIG.20illustrates an example lower portion2000of a patient gown that includes a pocket2002(e.g., a patch pocket) coupled to the patient gown. Pocket2002can be used to store personal items of the patient, such as the patient's jewelry, phone, etc., but can also be used to store other items as well. For example, small items that are given to the patient by a medical professional while undergoing examination, such as a cardiac monitor, glucose meter, insulin pump, and the like, can also be stored within pocket2002. Pocket2002can be sewn onto the exterior of the gown or otherwise attached to the patient gown. In some examples, pocket2002can be attached to the upper right corner of the lower portion (e.g., the skirt) of the patient gown while worn by the patient. However, pocket2002can be attached at other places of the patient gown as well. In another example, pocket2002is attached based on whether the patient is right-hand or left-hand dominant (e.g., the patient feels more comfortable picking up items with either their right or left hand). If the patient is right-hand dominant, then pocket2002can be attached as shown inFIG.20, that is, attached to the upper right corner of lower portion2000, or anywhere else on the right side of lower portion2000. In contrast, for left-hand dominant patients, pocket2002can be attached on the upper left corner of lower portion2000, or anywhere else on the left side of lower portion2000. In a particular example, pocket2002can be attached at or near the waistline of the patient. In some examples, pocket2002is attached on the upper portion(s) of the patient gown (such as the upper portions of the patient gowns shown inFIGS.17-19), or multiple pockets2002can be attached in both the upper and lower portions of the patient gown. Pocket2002may also have additional ports or holes to insert leads connected from medical equipment to smaller devices stored in the pocket (not shown inFIG.20).

FIG.20further shows a magnified view of an example pocket2003that can be affixed to a patient gown. In some examples, pocket2003has a rectangular shape. The dimensions of the pocket2003can vary depending on desired size. In one example, the pocket2003has approximate dimensions of 4 inch width by 6 inch length. However, pocket2003can be other shapes and sizes as well. Pocket2003in some examples includes3edges sewn onto lower portion2004, in which the top edge2005is the open edge where the patient can store items within.

Referring toFIGS.21a-21c,FIG.21aillustrates a front view of an example of a patient gown.FIG.21billustrates a rear view of an example of a patient gown, such as the rear of the patient gown illustrated inFIG.21a.FIG.21cillustrates a rear view of an example of a patient gown with a seam closure between the upper portions and lower portion of the patient gown.FIGS.21a-21ccan include similar features to those described above with respect toFIGS.17a-20.

As shown inFIG.21a, first upper portion2102crosses over second upper portion2104in a diagonal direction at horizontal seam2106in the opposite direction than as shown inFIG.17a. In some examples, the width of the upper portion of patient gown2100can shrink slightly as the bottom of the upper portion couples with the lower portion.

Similar toFIG.17b, vertical fastening region2110can be opened both from the upper portion (first upper portion2102and second upper portion2104) and lower portion2108of the patient gown2100when needed to examination the rear and back regions of the patient, as shown inFIG.21b.

When vertical fastening region2110(comprising second fastening region2161and third fastening region2171) is closed, as shown inFIG.21c, a seam closure2151can close the upper and lower portions of the patient gown when the rear and back regions are not being examined. The second fastening region2161includes at least one fastening device2175and the third fastening region2171includes at least one fastening device2177. Each fastening device2175,2177is shown as a tie for pedagogical illustration understanding that other devices can be used to open and close the second fastening region2161and third fastening region2171.

FIGS.22a-22billustrate an example of a patient gown2200in which the bottom of first upper portion2204and second upper portion2210has a slightly wider frame than the top of the lower portion2202. It should be noted that although fastening region2206depicts three ties2208a-c, in some examples, only one tie is used (e.g., tie2208a), or other adhesive material or coupling devices are used.FIGS.22a-22bcan include similar features to those described above with respect toFIGS.17a-21c.

The patient gowns described in the present application can be worn by men and women. Furthermore, the patient gowns described herein can be worn in any setting suitable for medical examination, including hospitals, senior living facilities, health care clinics, physical therapy clinics, or any other type of medical examination setting.

Features described in one or more examples with respect to the Figures can in general be implemented in other examples as well. That is, the features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with the features of other examples. Thus, any of the various examples described herein can be combined to provide further examples.

The terms “about”, “approximately”, or “substantially” mean that the value or parameter specified may be somewhat altered, as long as the alteration does not result in nonconformance of the process or structure to the illustrated embodiment from the perspective of one having ordinary skill in the art. For instance, unless otherwise indicated, a numerical quantity modified by the term “substantially” can be altered to within ±20% of the specified value. Finally, the term “exemplary” merely indicates the accompanying description is used as an example, rather than implying an ideal, essential, or preferable feature of the invention.

EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Example 1 includes a patient gown, comprising: a first portion configured to cover at least a portion of an upper torso of a patient, the first portion comprising: a body with two sleeves extending therefrom, wherein the body includes a front and a back; wherein the front of the first portion includes a first fastening region extending from the top to the bottom of the front of the first portion, wherein a right side of the front of the first portion comprises one side of the first fastening region, wherein a left side of the front of the first portion comprises another side of the first fastening region, wherein the first fastening region includes at least one first fastening device configured to connect the right side of the front of the first portion with the left side of the front of the first portion, wherein the at least one first fastening device is configured to at least partially close the first fastening region, wherein the back of the first portion includes a second fastening region extending from a top of the first portion to a bottom of the first portion, wherein a right side of the back of the first portion comprises one side of the second fastening region, wherein a left side of the back of the first portion comprises another side of the second fastening region, wherein the second fastening region includes at least one second fastening device configured to connect the right side of the back of the first portion with the left side of the back of the first portion, wherein the at least one second fastening device is configured to at least partially close the second fastening region; and a second portion configured to cover at least a portion of a lower body of the patient, the lower portion comprising: a front and a back; wherein a top of the second portion is configured to engage with the bottom of the first portion to form a waistline, wherein the back of the second portion includes a third fastening region in alignment with the second fastening region of the back of the first portion, wherein a right side of the back of the second portion comprises one side of the third fastening region, wherein a left side of the back of the second portion comprises another side of the third fastening region, wherein the third fastening region includes at least one third fastening device configured to couple the right side of the back of the second portion with the left side of the back of the second portion, wherein the at least one third fastening device is configured to at least partially close the third fastening region.

Example 2 includes the patient gown of Example 1, wherein the first fastening region extends approximately diagonally from a collar of the top of the first portion towards the bottom of the first portion.

Example 3 includes the patient gown of any of Examples 1-2, wherein a bottom portion of the first portion includes at least one coupling device configured to couple a bottom portion of the right side of the front to a respective coupling device on a top portion of the right side of the front, wherein the bottom portion includes at least one coupling device configured to couple a bottom portion of the left side of the front to a respective coupling device on a top portion of the left side of the front.

Example 4 includes the patient gown of any of Examples 1-3, wherein the at least one first fastening device comprises a tie, a hook and loop fastener, a snap, a magnet, a button, a zipper, and/or an adhesive material.

Example 5 includes the patient gown of any of Examples 1-4, wherein the first fastening region includes: a first tie positioned approximately at a collar of the top of the first portion; a second tie positioned approximately at the waistline; and a third tie positioned between the first tie and the second tie.

Example 6 includes the patient gown of any of Examples 1-5, wherein the front of the second portion and/or the back of the second portion includes at least one pocket.

Example 7 includes the patient gown of Example 6, wherein the at least one pocket is located near the top of the lower portion, wherein the at least one pocket includes at least one open edge.

Example 8 includes the patient gown of any of Examples 6-7, wherein the at least one pocket includes at least one port configured to pass connections from medical equipment therethrough to at least one medical device stored in the at least pocket.

Example 9 includes the patient gown of any of Examples 1-8, wherein the bottom of the first portion further comprises a seam closure, wherein the seam closure is configured to open and close the waistline.

Example 10 includes a patient blouse for covering an upper torso of a patient, comprising: a body with two sleeves extending therefrom, wherein the body includes a front portion and a back portion, wherein the front portion includes a first fastening region extending from a top of the front portion to a bottom of the front portion, wherein a right side of the front portion comprises one side of the first fastening region, wherein a left side of the front portion comprises another side of the first fastening region, wherein the first fastening region includes at least one first fastening device configured to connect the right side of the front portion with the left side of the front portion, wherein the at least one first fastening device is configured to at least partially close the first fastening region, wherein the back portion includes a second fastening region extending from a top of the back portion to a bottom of the back portion, wherein a right side of the back portion comprises one side of the second fastening region, wherein a left side of the back portion comprises another side of the fastening region, wherein the second fastening region includes at least one second fastening device configured to connect the right side of the back portion with the left side of the back portion, wherein the at least one second fastening device is configured to at least partially close the second fastening region.

Example 11 includes the patient blouse of Example 10, wherein the first fastening region extends approximately diagonally from a collar of the front portion towards the bottom of the front portion.

Example 12 includes the patient blouse of any of Examples 10-11, wherein the first fastening region extends diagonally towards the right side of the bottom of the front portion or the left side of the bottom of the front portion of the body.

Example 13 includes the patient blouse of any of Examples 10-12, wherein the first fastening region is positioned along a neckline of the patient blouse, wherein the at least one fastening device is configured to fasten the neckline to the first fastening region.

Example 14 includes the patient blouse of any of Examples 10-13, wherein the at least one first fastening device comprises a tie, a hook and loop fastener, a snap, a magnet, a button, a zipper, and/or an adhesive material.

Example 15 includes the patient blouse of any of Examples 10-14, wherein the front portion includes at least one coupling device configured to couple the right side of the front portion to a respective coupling device on a top portion of the right side, wherein the front portion includes at least one coupling device configured to couple the left side of the front portion to a respective coupling device on a top portion of the left side.

16 includes the patient blouse of Example 15, wherein the right side of the front portion is configured to couple to the respective coupling device on the top portion of the right side while the left side is in a closed position, and wherein the left side of the front portion is configured to couple to the respective coupling device on the top portion of the left side while the right side is in a closed position.

Example 17 includes a patient skirt for covering a lower body of a patient, comprising: a front portion, a back portion, and an interior portion; wherein the back portion includes a vertical fastening region extending from a top of the back portion to a bottom of the back portion, wherein a right side of the back portion comprises one side of the vertical fastening region, wherein a left side of the back portion comprises another side of the vertical fastening region, wherein the vertical fastening region includes at least one fastening device configured to couple the right side of the back portion with the left side of the back portion, wherein the at least one fastening device is configured to at least partially open and close the vertical fastening region, wherein a top of the interior portion includes a first horizontal fastening region positioned along a waistline of the patient skirt, wherein a top of the front portion and/or a top of the back portion includes a second horizontal fastening region corresponding to the first horizontal fastening region, wherein the second horizontal fastening region is configured to engage with the first horizontal fastening region.

Example 18 includes the patient skirt of Example 17, wherein the front portion and/or the back portion includes at least one pocket.

Example 19 includes the patient skirt of Example 18, wherein the at least one pocket is located near the top of the patient skirt portion, wherein the at least one pocket includes at least one open edge.

Example 20 includes the patient skirt of any of Examples 18-19, wherein the at least one pocket includes at least one port configured to pass connections from medical equipment therethrough to at least one medical device stored in the at least pocket.

Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that any arrangement, which is calculated to achieve the same purpose, may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. Therefore, it is manifestly intended that this invention be limited only by the claims and the equivalents thereof.