A portable device for wound care and method for use TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to a portable, multi-use device for use when applying a wound dressing to a patient and to a method for using the device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

When changing a wound dressing of a patient, a dressing pack is commonly used. The pack typically comprises a small plastic tray bound in a sterile wrap and having minimal disposable tools and dressings within the pack, To use the pack, the wrap is unfolded and laid flat, without touching the sterile tray and other contents within it. Once this is done, the contents of the pack lie on top of the sterile wrap. A folded sterile paper sheet is placed between the patient and the wrap that holds the tray and other contents. Frequently, there is an area between the patient's wound and the wrap that is not covered by the sterile sheet or the wrap.

The pack is typically opened on a wound care trolley or on a bedside table of the patient to provide a stable surface on which the tray can sit. A rubbish bag is often placed on the bed or hangs off the trolley and is used to dispose of the soiled dressing.

A problem that arises is that when a person changing or applying a dressing reaches from the wound dressing trolley or bedside table to the wound, the clean dressing equipment can be exposed to contaminants, especially where a rubbish bag holding soiled dressing material is Iocated in the immediate area. The distance between the dressing pack and the wound can also cause spills if the clean dressing is first soaked in a liquid solution before being applied to the wound. Consequently, current wound dressing packs can be awkward to use and also pose risks to hygiene problems and infection.

It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a device suitable for use when attending to wounds that goes at least some way toward overcoming the disadvantages of the prior art, or that at least provides a useful alternative. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a multi-use device for use when attending to a wound, the device comprising a first tray and a second tray and further comprising a locking system adapted to attach the first and second trays together in a locked state and to allow the first and second trays to be separated from each other in an unlocked state.

Preferably, the locking system is adapted to provide a visual indication of whether the locking system is in the locked state, the unlocked state, or both. Typically, at least one of the first and second trays comprise a body portion having a bottom surface and sidewalls extending from peripheral edges of the body portion to form a receptacle. Optionally, at least one tray comprises a body portion having a bottom surface and sidewalls extending from peripheral edges of the body portion to form a receptacle and further comprises an inner surface and one or more partition walls on its Inner surface to define a plurality of cavities in which items and/or liquids can be held.

Preferably, the bottom surface of each tray is approximately 300 x 300 mm square. Preferably, at least one tray is adapted to receive waste material .

In a preferred form, the device further comprises a handle. Preferably, at least one lock of the locking system Is located on the handle of the device.

Preferably, the first and second trays are attached together by a locking system located substantially on a handle of the device.

In one form, the locking system comprises at least one lock and a releasable catch. The releasable catch is optionally in the form of a releasable hinge.

In one form, the lock comprises a base plate comprising a locking aperture, a slider that is located on the base plate and from which an L-shaped locking arm projects, the locking arm being adapted to project through the locking aperture, the free end of the locking arm forming a foot that is adapted to slide within a tunnel formed in the locking aperture, an indication aperture formed in the slider, and a visual indicator located on the base plate and/or the foot of the locking arm to indicate whether the device is locked or unlocked respectively.

Preferably, the slider comprises a substantially U-shaped aperture that defines a tongue between the arms of the U . In this form, a hook may project from a bottom surface of the tongue and engages with a locking catch formed in an upper surface of the base plate when the device is in the locked state. The locking catch may comprise a ratchet having a plurality of recesses shaped to correspond with the shape of the hook.

Optionally, the device further comprises a key for disengaging the hook from the locking catch.

In one form, at least one lock of the locking system comprises a locking member comprising a body having a biasing member extending from one end of the body and a locking end extending from the other end of the body. Preferably, the locking end comprises a pair of resilient legs that, In a rest position, project outwardly and in the direction of the biasing member.

In one form, the first and second trays of the device each comprise a locking aperture for receiving the locking member therein and the distance between the resilient legs of the locking end in the rest position is greater than the width of the locking aperture of the second tray. Optionally, the distance between the resilient legs of the locking end in the rest position is greater than the width of the locking aperture of both of the first and the second trays.

In a second aspect, the invention provides a key for a device of the first aspect of the invention, wherein the key comprises a body having a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the locking end therein, and wherein the width of the cavity Is less than or equal to the width of the locking aperture of the second tray.

In a third aspect, the invention provides a method of providing a multi-use device for use when attending to a wound, the method comprising :

(i) providing a device according to the first aspect of the invention;

(ii) cleaning the device;

(iii) sterilising the device; and

(iv) applying an indication on the device that it has been sterilised;

(v) transporting the device to a site for use;

(vi) removing the sterilisation indication;

(vil) using the device when attending to a wound; and

(viil) locking the device,

In one form, the method further comprises the step of packing the device with Items needed to attend to a wound between steps (iii) and (iv).

In another form, the method further comprises the step of packing the device with items needed to attend to a wound between steps (vi) and (vii).

In another form, the method further comprises the step of placing soiled material or used equipment in the device after or during step (vii) and before step (vili).

Also disclosed herein is a method of providing a sterile multi-use device, the method comprising :

(i) providing a device according to the first aspect of the invention;

(ii) cleaning the device;

(ill) sterilising the device; and

(iv) locking the device so that the visual indicator shows that the device is locked.

Optionally, the method further comprises the step of packing the device with items needed to attend to a wound between steps (iii) and (iv). In another form, the method further comprises the step of packing the device with items needed to attend to a wound at the site of the patient.

Alternatively or additionally, the method may comprise the step of applying a seal to the device to indicate that the device is sterile,

The term 'tray' is used in this specification to mean, unless the context suggests otherwise, an object having a substantially flat bottom surface with sidewalls extending from the bottom surface to form a receptacle. As used in this specification, the words "comprises", "comprised", "comprising", and similar words, are not to be interpreted in an exclusive or exhaustive sense. In other words, they are intended to mean "including, but not limited to".

The term "wound dressing items" is used in this specification to mean, unless the context requires otherwise, any items to be used for dressing a wound, cleaning a wound, or removing a dressing from the wound. Examples of wound dressing equipment include swabs, forceps, bandages, adhesive and non-adhesive dressings, saline solution, and scissors. Similarly, the term "waste dressing Items" is used in this specification to mean, unless the context requires otherwise, any items that have been used for dressing a wound, cleaning a wound, or removing a dressing from the wound, including soiled swabs and dressings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Preferred forms of the invention will now be described by way of example only and in which :

Figure 1 is a perspective view of one form of device according to the Invention;

Figure 2 shows one form of device of the invention in an open, separated state; Figure 3a is a plan view of the inner surface of one form of tray of the device;

Figure 3b is a perspective view of one form of device of the invention in an open, separated state;

Figure 4 is a side view of the tray of Figure 3;

Figure 5 is a rear view of the tray of Figure 3;

Figure 6 is a cutaway perspective view of one form of locking system in a locked state;

Figure 7 is a cutaway perspective view of the locking system of Figure 6 in an unlocked state;

Figure 8 is a perspective view from above of one form of lock slider of the locking system of Figure 6;

Figure 9 is a perspective view from below of the lock slider of Figure 8;

Figure 10 is a plan view of the lock slider of Figure 6;

Figure 11 is a cross-sectional side view of the lock slider taken along line A-A of Figure 10;

Figure 12 is an end view of the lock slider of Figure 6;

Figure 13 is a plan view of the outer surface of one form of tray of the device of the invention;

Figure 14 is a cross-sectional slice of the container of Figure 8 taken along line B-B; Figure 15 is an enlarged side view of the area A in Figure 14;

Figure 16 is an enlarged plan view of the area A in Figure 14; Figure 17 is plan view of a device according to the invention that has another form of locking system;

Figure 18a is a side view of a locking member to be used with the locking system of Figure 17;

Figure 18b is a perspective view of the locking member of Figure 18a;

Figure 19 is a side view of the device of Figure 17;

Figure 20 is a cross-sectional slice of the device taken along line C-C of Figure 19; Figure 21 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the area B In Figure 20;

Figure 22 is a perspective view of a key to unlock the locking system of Figure 17; Figure 23 is a side view of the key of Figure 22;

Figure 24a is a cross-sectional side view of the key taken along line D-D of Figure

23;

Figure 24b is an enlarged view of the area C in Figure 24a;

Figure 25 is a side view of the device of Figure 17 with a key in place to unlock the device;

Figure 26 is a cross-sectional slice of the device taken along line E-E of Figure 25; Figure 27 is an enlarged view of the area D in Figure 26;

Figure 28 is a perspective view from below showing the key engaged with the locking member of Figures 18a and 18b;

Figure 29 is a side view of the device of Figure 17 about to be unlocked;

Figure 30 is a cross-sectional slice of the device taken along line F-F of Figure 29; Figure 31 is an enlarged view of the area E in Figure 30;

Figure 32 is a perspective view of one form of rack for stacking multiple devices according to the invention; and

Figure 33 Is a perspective view of the rack of Figure 32 in which multiple devices of the Invention are held.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The device of the invention provides a multi-use portable container having inner surfaces that remain sterile until the container is used to attend to a patient's wound (i.e. to clean a wound, dress a wound, or remove a dressing). The container is adapted to be used as a receptacle for wound dressing items and for waste dressing items when attending to a wound.

The invention also provides a method for cleaning, sterilising, and using the container safely.

The device is formed of two parts, each part having a base and surrounding sidewalls to form a walled tray. The two trays are able to attach to each other to form a container with a substantially hollow interior in which items to clean and/or dress a wound may be held. The two trays can also be separated from each other. When separated, one tray may be used to hold items needed to dress a wound (such as saline solution, gauze, and bandages) and the other tray may be used to hold soiled material that has been used to dress a wound (such as swabs) or soiled material that has been removed from a wound (such as gauze and bandages) . After use, the waste dressing items from dressing the wound may optionally be placed on one tray and the other tray may be placed on top to form a container. The two trays may then be locked together, If desired, and taken away from the site of the wound for cleaning and sterilisation before re-use.

In many situations, at least some of the wound dressing items needed to attend to a wound should be sterile before use. Furthermore, one or more receptacles may be used to hold a liquid, such as saline solution, into which swabs can be dunked before cleaning a wound, Consequently, the device of the invention is designed so that interior surfaces of the trays are able to be sterilised and kept sterile until a person uses the device when attending to a wound. In some forms, Inner surfaces of one or both trays may also be configured to provide receptacles for holding liquid or other materials and equipment.

Figures 1 to 5 show one form of device according to the invention . The device 100 comprises a first tray 120a, and a second tray 120b where each of the first and second trays comprise a body portion having a substantially flat bottom surface 140. The bottom surface 140 of each tray faces away from the bottom surface of the other tray when the trays are locked together. The bottom surface is the largest surface of the device and is the surface on which the tray will be placed when separated from the other tray and used as a receptacle. The term 'bottom surface' is used in this specification for ease of reference, but it should be appreciated that the bottom surface of a tray might not always be on the bottom of the device. For example, when the device comprises a handle at one side and is being carried by its handle, the bottom surface of neither tray is at the bottom of the device. Furthermore, when the trays of the device are locked together and the device is resting on the bottom surface of only one tray, the bottom surface of the other tray is the uppermost part of the device.

Sidewalls 150 extend from the body portion of at least one tray so that the tray can be used as a receptacle for wound dressing items and/or waste dressing Items when attending to a wound. The other tray may be a substantially flat tray (not shown) to provide a lid for the device when in a locked position and to provide a supporting surface for wound dressing Items when attending to a wound. However, in a preferred form, both the first and second trays comprise sidewalls 150.

The sidewalls 150 may be of any suitable height so that the trays can act as receptacles for wound dressing items (including liquids) and/or for holding soiled dressing material . In one form, the sidewalls are 15 mm high. Preferably, the sidewalls are at least 5 mm high. In some forms, the side walls are 7.5mm high. In other forms, the sidewalls are 10mm high or 50mm high or at any height in between, It will be appreciated that the sidewalls may be of any suitable height to allow the respective tray to act as a receptacle . It is not essential that the height of the sidewalls of each tray is identical, Instead, one tray may have sidewalls that are higher than the other tray. In some forms, the sidewalls of at least one tray may be so low as to define a lip of the tray.

In some forms, the sidewalls extend from peripheral edges of the body portion of a tray, but in other forms, one or more sidewalls may be located inward from the edges of a tray so that part of the body portion of the tray extends beyond the tray to form a flange on which a lock and/or a releasable catch may be located to attach the trays together.

In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 7, a substantially identical cutout section

171a, 171b Is provided at one side of each tray to form a handle portion 170a, 170b. When the trays are locked together, the corresponding handle portions 170a, 170b are aligned to form a handle 170. In the embodiment illustrated, the handle 170 is located at the front of the device and the sidewalls 150 of the device curve around the cutout sections 171. The handle makes it easier to carry the device, although it should be appreciated that it is not essential for the device to comprise a handle.

The bottom surface 140 of each tray is preferably large enough to provide a stable base for each separated tray 120a, 120b to be used as a receptacle and small enough to fit within the dimensions of the average wound care trolley. A stable base is particularly Important if the trays are used on an uneven or moving surface, such as a patient's bed. In preferred forms, the bottom surface is square and is 300 mm x 300 mm in size with sidewalls of 15 mm in height. However, it should be appreciated that the bottom surface may be of any suitable size and shape. For example, the bottom surface may be a sqaure shape of 350 mm x 350 mm or a rectangular shape of 250 mm x 300 mm. It is to be appreciated also that the bottom surface may be oval or round with a diameter of any suitable size, such as 250 mm or 300 mm. In other forms, the bottom surface of each tray may be an irregular shape.

Each tray 120 also has an inner surface 145 that faces the interior of the device when the two trays are locked together. As shown in the embodiment of Figure 2 to 5, the inner surface 145 of each tray 120 optionally comprises one or more partition walls 151 that define a plurality of cavities 160 in the tray. The cavities 160 may be sized and/or shaped to hold particular items for attending to a wound. For example, a round or square shaped cavity may be used to hold saline solution or water for cleaning a wound. A long, thin cavity may be used to hold forceps, and a square cavity may be used to hold swabs. In one form, one or more cavities may have a contoured bottom surface that cooperates with the contours of the item to be held in the cavity. For example, a rectangular cavity may have a semi-cylindrical, depressed bottom surface that is shaped to complement the contours of a cylindrical bottle to be held within the cavity. One or more other cavities may be sized and/or shaped to hold bandages, syringes, a range of sterile dressings, and other items necessary to change a dressing, apply a dressing, and/or to hold soiled dressing material . Alternatively or additionally, as shown in Figure 3, one or more cavities 160 may include ridges 152 that can be used to squeeze excess fluid from gauze or other material .

Each tray may have one or more cavities that are sized, shaped, and positioned to complement each other to better hold items within the device when the two trays are locked together. Alternatively, the inner surfaces of the first and second trays may have different arrangements of partition walls and cavities or may be devoid of partition walls. Preferably, at least one tray is adapted to receive waste material , such as waste dressing items. For example, the first tray may comprise multiple partition walls and cavities for holding wound dressing items for attending to a wound and the second tray may be devoid or substantially devoid of partition walls and cavities so that the second tray can hold waste dressing items, sch as soiled dressing material .

The device of the invention also comprises a locking system . The locking system is configured to lock the two trays together in a locked state . When locked together, the trays form a container for holding wound dressing items and/or waste dressing items. In an unlocked state, the locking system is configured to allow the two trays to be separated from each other so that each tray can be used in different locations, such as on either side of a patient, when the device is being used by a person attending to a wound.

In some forms, the locking system is configured to provide a visual indication of when the device is locked and/or when it is unlocked .

For ease of reference, different forms of the locking system will be described as if the bottom surface of the second tray is resting on a horizontal surface. However, it should be appreciated that the device will not always be in this orientation. Therefore, any directional terms used to describe the device, such as bottom, top, up, down, and the like, should not be interpreted as limiting the configuration of the invention to a device that is in the described orientation only.

In the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 31, the locking system comprises at least one lock located on the handle at the front of the device and adapted to lock the trays together. However, it should be appreciated that the at least one lock may be placed on the device at any suitable location.

The locking system also comprises at least one releasable catch to hold the trays together at the rear of the device.

The releasable catch 205 is adapted to allow the first and second trays to be separated from each other when the device is opened. This is achieved in the device shown in Figures 1 to 5, by providing a releasable catch in the form of a hinge 205 in which one or more hinge parts 205a are located on the first tray to engage with one or more hinge parts 205b located on the second tray. The hinge parts comprise spigots and spigot receiving channels that are adapted to allow the spigots to be snapfitted or slid into the channels to cause the corresponding hinge parts to engage with each other, and to allow the spigots to be pulled out of or slid out of the channels to disengage the hinge parts. Consequently, the hinge 205 is a releasable hinge, which is adapted so that the two trays can hinge apart and so that the two trays can be separated by disengaging the hinge parts of the first tray from the hinge parts of the second tray.

In other forms, the releasable catch 205 may be a snap-fit clip that is formed on at least one tray and clips onto the edge of the other tray to hold the two trays together. Any other suitable releasable catch or fastening system that allows the two trays to be attached together, separated from each other, and reattached during ongoing use may be used instead.

It should be appreciated that one or more releasable catches may be located on any or all of the rear, left, and right sides of the device, so that the lock and catches together act to hold the device closed,

In yet another form, the device may comprise a lock on opposing sides of the device to lock the two trays together. The lock may be of any suitable form to lock the two trays together and to be unlocked so that the trays can be separated from each other.

In one form of the device shown in Figures 6 to 15, the lock 200 comprises a slider 210 and a base plate 250. The slider 210 is adapted to slide along the base plate 250 in one direction to reach a locked position in which the device is in the locked state, as shown in Figure 6 and to slide along the base plate in the reverse direction to reach an unlocked position in which the device is in the unlocked state, as shown in Figure 7.

The slider comprises a body 211 with a bottom surface, a top surface, and sides 212 that project from the bottom surface of the body and extend along the length of the body, as shown best in Figures 8, 9, and 12.

A pair of L-shaped locking arms 220 also project from the bottom surface of the body 211. The free end of each locking arm forms a foot 225.

A pair of indicator apertures 240 are formed in the body 211 of the slider 210. The indicator apertures 240 extend between the top and bottom surfaces of the body, as shown in Figures 8 and 9.

A substantially U-shaped aperture 260 is also formed in the slider and extends between the top and bottom surface of the slider to define a tongue 280 between the arms of the U. The slider is formed of a semi-flexible, resilient material so that the tongue is able to be moved up and down without snapping.

A hook 215 projects from the bottom surface of the slider body 210 and extends across the width of the tongue 280, as shown in Figures 8 to 11. The hook 215 comprises a tapered front face (being the surface that faces in the direction of movement as the slider slides from the unlocked position to the locked position ) and a substantially perpendicular rear face.

In the embodiment shown in Figures 6 and 7, the base plate 250 is formed by the handle portion 170a of the first tray. The base plate 250 provides an upper surface on which the body of the slider is located. The slider is adapted so that its sides 212 envelop the edges of the base plate 250 (which are also edges of the handle 170a of the first tray) . As shown in Figure 12, inner faces of the sides of the slider comprise a projecting lip 213 that engages with a bottom surface of the base plate 250 to hold the slider to the base plate, The slider is dimensioned so that it can slide along the base plate, but cannot be removed. Therefore, even when the two trays are separated, the slider remains attached to the handle of the first tray.

The base plate 250 comprises a pair of locking apertures 230 through which the locking arms 220 of the slider project. The locking apertures extend through the base plate and through the handle portion 170b of the second tray located beneath the base plate. Each locking aperture 230 comprises a first stop 231 that prevents the slider from sliding in one direction (toward the unlocked position) and a second stop 232 that prevents the slider from sliding in the opposite direction (toward the locked position). Each locking aperture is dimensioned so that the respective locking arm 220 and foot 225 can slide (up and down) through the locking aperture. A tunnel 235 is formed in the second stop 232 of the locking aperture and is located in the lower region of the handle portion 170b of the second tray. The tunnel 235 is positioned so that the foot 225 of the respective locking arm is held in the tunnel when the device 100 is locked, as shown in Figure 6.

The base plate 250 further comprises a locking catch 255 adapted to engage with the hook 215 of the slider when the device is locked. In the embodiment shown in Figures 13 to 16, the locking catch 255 is in the form of a ratchet that provides a plurality of recesses along the length of the ratchet for engaging with the hook 215 at multiple positions. The recesses are shaped to substantially correspond with the shape of the hook so that the hook can fit snugly within any of the recesses. In particular, the ratchet recesses each have an angled front edge and a substantially perpendicular rear edge.

In other forms, the locking catch may be any suitable recess or aperture shaped to correspond with the hook so that the hook can engage with the recess or aperture . It is also not essential that the hook has a tapered front face and a substantially perpendicular rear face. For example, the hook may have a substantially perpendicular front and rear face and may be sized to engage with a substantially rectancular slot formed in the upper surface of the base plate.

To lock the device, the first and second trays 120a, 120b are placed together so that their inner surfaces 145 face each other and the handle portions 170a, 170b align . The releasable catch 205 is engaged to attach the two trays to each other. The slider 210 of the lock is then slid from the unlocked position at one side of the handle 170 of the device to the locked position at the other side of the handle. In particular, the slider 210 is slid along the base plate 250 to cause the foot 225 of each locking arm 220 to extend into the tunnel 235 of the respective locking aperture 230. At the same time, the locking arms 220 slide along the length of the locking apertures 230 until the locking arms abut the second stop 232 of the respective locking aperture and/or until the free end of each foot 225 reaches the closed end of the respective tunnel 235. As the slider slides along the base plate toward the locked position, the hook 215 slides toward the locking catch 255 (such as by sliding over the ratchet).

When each locking arm 220 jams against the second stop 232 of the respective locking aperture, the hook 215 settles into the locking catch 255. The locking catch is positioned on the upper surface of the base plate so that the hook can securely engage with the catch when then slider is In the locked position.

In the embodiment in which the locking catch is a ratchet, as described above, as the slider is slid toward the locked position, the tapered front face of the hook slides over the angled front edges of the ratchet until the slider reaches the locked position . At this point, the catch settles into a recess of the ratchet to engage with the recess.

The device is now locked and it is not possible to separate the two trays. Because the hook is engaged with the locking catch, the slider is unable to slide along the base plate to return to the unlocked position . For example, where the locking catch is a ratchet, as described above, the perpendicular rear face of the hook jams against the perpendicular rear edge of the respective ratchet recess to prevent the hook, and therefore the slider, from sliding in the reverse direction to the unlocked position. Furthermore, the slider is not able to be pulled upwardly and away from the base plate because the foot of each locking arm is trapped within the tunnel of the respective locking aperture. The lock and releasable catch therefore prevent the trays from being separated.

The locking system provides a visual Indication that the device is locked, as shown in Figure 6, In the locked state, the indicator aperture 240 is positioned over the base plate 250 so that a portion of the base plate can be seen beneath the Indicator aperture. The visible portion of the base plate provides a visual indication that the device is locked. For example, the visual indication may be achieved by making this portion of the base plate a colour (such as red) that can only be seen when the device is locked. In other forms, the word LOCKED or similar may be visible on this portion of the device. In other forms, the visibility of the base plate beneath the indicator aperture may be the only visual indication provided that the device is locked.

To release the hook 215 from the locking catch 255 so that the slider can be slid to the unlocked position, it is necessary to lift the flexible tongue 280 away from the base plate 250 and to simultaneously slide the slider 210 toward the unlocked position . The U- shaped aperture 260 in the slider forms a keyhole through which a tool/key can be Inserted to lift the tongue 280 away from the base plate 250, Any tool with a suitably shaped end may be used to lift the tongue. The end of the tool is preferably tapered to make It easier to fit the tool under the tongue and lever the tongue away from the base plate.

As the tongue 280 is lifted away from the base plate 250, the hook 215 disengages from the locking catch 255, and the foot 225 of each locking arm begins retracting from its respective tunnel 235. The slider 210 can then be slid toward the unlocked position .

In the unlocked position, the foot 225 of each locking arm retracts from its tunnel 235 so that the locking arm and foot together fill the respective locking aperture and the locking arm abuts the first stop of the locking aperture. The locking arms can then be pulled out of the respective locking apertures and the two trays can be hinged open to access any items contained within the device. The trays can also be separated by disengaging the releasable catch.

In the unlocked state, the indicator aperture 240 aligns with at least a portion of the locking aperture 230, as shown in Figure 7, so that the upper surface of each foot 225 of the locking arms can be seen beneath the indicator aperture 240. The visible upper surface of each foot provides a visual indication that the device Is unlocked. For example, the top surface of each foot may be of a colour (such as green) that can only be seen when the device is unlocked. In other forms, the word LOCKED or similar may be visible on the upper surface of each foot. In other forms, the visibility of the upper surface of each foot beneath the indicator aperture may be the only visual indication provided that the device is unlocked.

In one form, one or more parts of the lock are disposable, such that a new lock needs to be attached to the device after each sterilisation.

In another form, the device of the invention comprises a locking system comprising a different form of lock. The locking system comprises a lock 300 that may be located on one side of the device and a further lock or releasable catch 205 may be located on another side of the device to hold the trays of the device together in a locked state. Preferably, at least one releasable catch, as described above, is provided on the side of the device that is opposite the lock.

In one form, the device comprises a handle and the locking system comprises a lock 300 that is located on the handle, as shown in Figure 17. Alternatively, the lock may be placed in a different location. For example, each tray of the device may comprise corresponding flanges at one side and the lock may be located on the flanges to lock the trays together.

In one form of lock, as shown in Figures 17 to 26, the first and second trays 120a, 120b each comprise a locking aperture 310a, 310b. The locking apertures 310a, 310b of each tray align with each other when the trays 120a, 120b are positioned to be locked together (with inner surface facing each other).

As shown in Figures 18a and 18b, the lock further comprises a locking member 320 comprising a body 321, which may be in the form of a shaft or of any other suitable shape.

A locking end 322 is located at one end of the locking member body 321. The locking end 322 is configured to contract as it is pushed through the locking aperture(s) and to then expand to a rest state in which it abuts a surface of one of the trays and is prevented from retracting through the locking aperture(s).

In one form, the locking end comprises a pair of resilient legs 324 that project from the locking member body, preferably from the free end of the locking member body 321.

The resilient legs 324 are located opposite each other and project outwardly when in the rest position. In one form, each resilient leg projects outwardly and toward the opposite end of the locking member body to form an angle, In this form, the locking end 322 resembles an arrow head or anchor when viewed in cross-section, as can be seen in Figures 18a and 21. The resilient legs 324 are biased to this arrow head rest position. In another form, the resilient legs may simply project at right angles from the locking member body when in a rest position. The resilient legs 324 are configured to flex toward the locking member body 321, when pressed in this direction, and to automatically return to the rest position when the pressure is released. In one form, the locking end comprises a narrow stem 323 that extends from the locking member body and is connected to the resilient legs 324 of the locking end. The locking end stem 323 allows the legs 324 to flex inwardly as much as possible so that the distance between the resilient legs 324, in the compressed state, equal to or less than the width of the locking member body.

A biasing member 326 is located at the other end of the locking member body 321. Optionally, a button 325 is also provided. In this form, the biasing member 326 is located between the button 325 and the locking end 322, as shown in Figures 18a and 18b.

In one form, the biasing member 326 comprises a pair of resilient arms 327a, 327b that project outwardly and away from the button when in a rest position . In effect, the resilient arms 327a, 327b angle toward the anchor 322 when in the rest position, as shown in Figure 18a. The resilient arms are biased to the rest position.

Typically, the locking member 320 is configured to be held within the locking aperture 310a of the first tray 120a so that the biasing member 326 and button 325 project from one side of the locking aperture 310a and the locking end 322 projects from the other side. For example, when the first and second trays are positioned to be locked together, the locking end 322 projects from the first tray in the direction of the second tray 120b and the button 325 and biasing member project in the opposite direction and from the opposing surface of the first tray. To lock the device, the trays 210a, 120b are positioned together so that the locking apertures 310a, 310b align. The button 325 and/or biasing member 326 of the locking member 320 is/are then pressed toward the trays so that the locking end 322 is pushed through locking aperture 310b of the second tray 120b.

The resilient arms 327a, 327b of the biasing member 326 are semi-flexible and are configured to spread outwardly as they are caused to press against a first tray 120a of the device, as shown in Figure 21. Optionally, the first tray comprises a recess 311 in which the arms 327a, 327b of the biasing member 326 are located when the device is locked.

The second tray 120b optionally includes a wall 330 that at least partially surrounds the locking aperture 310b. When the locking end is pushed through the locking aperture 310b, the locking end 322 is at least partially located within the confines of the wall 330. The wall 330 helps to protect the locking end 322 from being knocked, which could cause the locking end to break off.

The locking aperture 310b of the second tray 120b has a width that is less than the distance between the free ends of the resilient legs 324 of the locking end 322 when the resilient legs are projecting in the rest position . The narrower width of the locking aperture 310b, causes the resilient legs 324 of the locking end 322 to be pushed together as they squeeze through the locking aperture 310b . Once the free ends of the resilient legs have been pushed through the locking aperture 310b, the legs return to the rest position in which the legs project outwardly. The distance between the free ends of the projecting legs 324 is now greater than the width of the locking aperture 310b and the legs are unable to retract through the locking aperture 310b.

The biasing member 326 is configured to press against and push away from the first tray 120a. As the biasing member presses against the first tray 120a, the free ends of the resilient legs 324 of the locking end are pulled against the second tray 120b to abut the area near the the locking aperture 310b of the second tray. In this way, the biasing member and the locking end together cause the two trays 120a, 120b to be locked together.

The device may be unlocked using a tool/key. One form of key is shown in Figures 22, 23, 24a, and 24b. The key comprises a body 410 for a user to grip, and a cavity 420 located at one end of the body. The width of the cavity 420 is dimensioned so that walls 430 of the cavity fit over at least a portion of the locking end 322 to cause the projecting legs 324 of the locking end to press toward each other until the legs 324 are at a distance that is less the width of the locking aperture 310b of the second tray 120b, as shown in Figures 25 to 31. Because the biasing member 326 continues to push against the surface of the first tray, the locking end is pulled through the locking aperture 310b to unlock the trays, as shown in Figure 31. Once the locking end is pulled through the locking aperture 310b, the legs of the locking end return to the projecting rest position and the locking end is prevented from pulling through the locking aperture 310a of the first tray. As soon as the locking end pulls through the locking aperture 310b, the resilient arms 327a, 327b of the biasing member spring back to the rest position, as can be seen in Figure 31.

In another form, the width of the locking aperture 310a of the fi rst tray 120a is the same as, or larger than, the width of the locking aperture 310b of the second tray. In this form, the locking end 322 can be pulled through the locking apertures 310a, 310b of both the first and second trays 120a, 120b and the locking member 320 can be disposed of. A new locking member then needs to be attached to lock the device.

In alternative forms, the locking end may comprise multiple resilient legs or the locking end may comprise a single, continuous leg in the shape of a substantially conical skirt. In both forms, the resi lient leg(s) is/are able to be pressed toward the locking member body and are biased to spring back into a position in which the resilient leg(s) project(s) outwardly from the locking member body.

The device is intended to be used anywhere that a wound may need to be attended to, including such places as hospitals, nursing homes, schools, workshops, cars, boats, planes, and medical hubs at malls.

The device provides a multi -use container that can be used as a receptacle for holding dressing items. Preferably, the inner surfaces of the device are not only cl ean, but are also sterilised . The device can be sterilised in a disinfectant bath, such as a precept, or it can be autociaved or sterilised in a dedicated steriliser.

The device of the invention is configured to be used so that after the two trays have been sterilised and are dry, the trays are locked together to keep the interior surfaces of the tray sterile. Where the device comprises a lock that provides a visual indication of whether or not the device is locked, someone can readily see if the device is sterile and ready for use. To further ensure that the device is sterile, the locked device may be sealed by placing a sticker over the lock. Alternatively, a sticker or other indication may be used without locking the device. In this form, a sticker is placed on the device to i ndicate that the device is sterile and ready for use. For example, after sterilisation, a sterilisation sticker may be wrapped around the device or around just the handle of the device to seal the trays together and to show a user that the device has been sterilised and is ready for use. The sticker itself may include an indication (in the form of text and/or an image or colour) that the device has been sterilised.

Optionally, the device is then moved to a preparation site where the sterilisation sticker is removed, and the device is unlocked and/or opened and prepacked with items for dressing a wound. In this form, the device may comprise a sacrificial sterile sheath that sits within and seals the tray to be used for sterile items when dressing a wound (the clean tray) , Items to be used for dressing a wound, such as forceps and bandages, are then placed on the sheath so as not to touch the sterile inner surface of the clean tray and the device Is closed. The device is then closed or locked again and a secondary seal (such as a further sticker) may be applied to the device. In this form, the lower surface of the sheath faces the inner surface of the clean tray and remains sterile, whereas the upper surface of the sheath contacts the items to be used for dressing a wound and is then no longer sterile. This arrangement is advantageous because the device can be used to hold items for dressing a wound whilst maintaining the sterility of the inner surface of the clean tray, even if the items themselves are held within packaging that is not sterile.

In other forms, the device Is prepacked Immediately after being sterilised. Again, a sheath may be used, as described above, The device is then dosed or locked and a seal is optionally applied to the device to indicate that the device has been sterilised and/or filled, Typically, the seal is a sticker, such as an adhesive tape, that is applied over the lock, although it should be appreciated that the sticker may alternatively be placed on other outer surfaces of the device, In yet other forms, the device is left empty until it is intended to be used. In this form, the person who is attending to a patient's wound, opens the device in the vacinity of the patient and then packs the device with any items needed to dress the patient's wound. For example, one or more cavities in one of the trays may be filled with saline solution into which gauze can be dipped for cleaning the wound.

Where the device is not locked before use, the device may include a sterilisation indicator, such as a sterilisation sticker (such as a tape or seal) that is applied after the device is sterilised. Preferably, the sterilisation indicator is wrapped around the handle of the device or the whole of the device to hold the device closed. The sterilisation indicator is broken or removed when the device is opened for optional prepacklng or for use. In this form, the presence of the sterilisation indicator indicates to a user that the device is sterile and is ready for use.

By using this tamper evident method, a person who sees that the device is locked and sealed, or has a sterilisation Indicator applied to it, can be reasonably confident that the inner surfaces of the device are sterile and the device is ready for use. Conversely, a person who sees that the sterilisation indicator is not present or that the seal is broken and the device is unlocked, can be reasonably confident that the device has not been sterilised or that the device has been tampered with subsequent to sterilisation, meaning that the inner surfaces of the device might no longer be sterile.

When the device is ready to be used, it is transported to the location of the patient who requires his or her wound to be attended to. For example, the device may be placed on or held within a wound care trolley that is moved to the location of the patient. In one form, the device may be held within a rack configured to hold a plurality of wound care devices, as shown in Figures 32 and 33. The rack may be sized to fit on a wound care trolley. The device is then readied for use. Where the device is locked and includes a seal, the seal of the device is broken and the device is unlocked and opened using a key or other suitable tool, as described above. Alternatively, where the device is not locked and instead only includes a sterilisation indicator, which may be a tamper evident seal, the sterilisation indicator is broken or removed and the device is opened. The two trays are then separated from each other. One tray, such as the first tray, is used as a receptacle for sterile Items needed to attend to the wound (the clean tray) . One or more cavities of this tray may also be used to hold fluid, such as saline solution or water needed to clean a wound. The other tray, such as the second tray, is used to hold soiled dressing material, such as used swabs, gause, bandages, and the like. This tray is referred to as the dirty tray. The clean tray, holding the sterile items, is typically placed close to the patient and the person who is cleaning and dressing the wound. The dirty tray, for holding the waste material, is placed some distance from the clean tray.

For ease of reference, the person who is attending to a patient's wound will now be referred to as a nurse, although it should be appreciated that any person could use the device of the invention to attend to a patient's wound without having a nursing qualification.

In a preferred method of cleaning a wound, the 'clean tray' for holding the sterile items is placed apart from the 'dirty tray' for holding waste material. In one example, the clean tray is placed between the patient and the nurse and the dirty tray is placed on the other side of the patient, In another example, the nurse could be standing next to the patient's bed with the clean tray on the side of her clean hand (the hand kept sterile) and the dirty tray on the side of her dirty hand (the hand used to come into contact with the wound). Of course, the trays may be used in other positions also, but to obtain a clean environment, it is preferred that the clean tray is placed as close to the patient as possible, to minimise the non-sterile area that the dressings have to traverse to reach the wound, and the dirty tray is not directly between the clean tray and the wound. In this way, the person attending to the patient's wound can, for example, fill a cavity in the clean tray with saline solution, then dab a swab in the solution and apply the solution to the patient's wound with minimal risk of spills because of the stable bottom surface of the first tray and the close proximity of the tray to the patient's wound.

After the wound has been cleaned, the dirty swab may be placed in a tray designated for waste (the dirty tray), well clear of the tray holding the sterile solution and other items (the clean tray). The soiled swab does not need to be disposed of into a rubbish sack in the immediate proximity of the wound. Nor does the soiled swab need to be lifted over the sterile items contained in the first tray. Therefore, the device allows a patient's wound to be attended to in a way that reduces the contamination risk that arises where soiled material passes close to or is positioned close to sterile material and where clean product is passed across greater distances to reach a wound. After attending to the dressing, ail items used may be placed in one or both trays of the device and the device is closed, or the trays are stacked on top of each other. Optionally, the device is locked after it is closed. By locking the device after use, it is possible to deter or prevent someone from using an unsterilized device in error. The device is then dispatched to a clean up area, where it is unlocked (if locked) and its contents are disposed of or cleaned and sterilised, as appropriate. The trays are also cleaned, sterilised, and sealed, stickered and/or locked to be ready for the next use.

Any reference to prior art documents in this specification is not to be considered an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms tray of the common general knowledge in the field.

Although the invention has been described by way of example, it should be appreciated that variations and modifications may be made without detracting from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. For example, although the lock has been described as having two locking arms, locking apertures, and indicator apertures, it is envisaged that the lock may have only one locking arm, locking aperture, and indicator aperture. Alternatively, the lock may comprise there or more locking arms, locking apertures, and indicator apertures. Furthermore, although the lock has been described as being placed on the handle of the device, It should be appreciated that the lock may be placed on a specially adapted edge of the device instead. In addition, although the invention has been described in relation to a preferred form of lock, any other suitable lock that provides a visual indication of whether the device is locked or not may be used.

Where known equivalents exist to specific features, such equivalents are incorporated as if specifically referred in this specification. It will be appreciated that the invention as claimed is not intended to be limited in any way by the examples.