Revolutionizing Pediatric Monitoring Through Wireless Digital Innovation
Children with complex medical conditions require vigilant monitoring, both during hospitalization and at home. Yet traditional monitoring systems—wired, rigid, and built for adult use—often clash with the needs of pediatric patients. Devices can be bulky, limit movement, and trigger false alerts due to dislodged leads or activity. For children who require rehabilitation or who are naturally active, this setup presents a daily challenge. For parents and clinical teams, it can compromise care, create unnecessary stress, and widen the gap between observation and action.
FirstDay Healthcare (FDH) is bridging that gap with a wireless, digital-first monitoring system designed specifically for pediatric use. Founded by neonatologist Dr. Ross Sommers, FDH was built to serve the complex needs of children transitioning from hospital to home, as well as those recovering in clinical settings. When Dr. Sommers approached ALYNnovation—ALYN Hospital’s innovation platform—his goal was clear: to bring FDH’s U.S.-based innovation to Israel and explore how it could enhance pediatric care through connected, family-centered technology.
The Solution: Smart, Wireless, Always Connected
FirstDay Healthcare’s core system integrates a smartphone application with Bluetooth-enabled vital sign monitors. The system includes a wireless patch that tracks heart rate and temperature, alongside a separate device that measures blood oxygen saturation (SpO₂). These metrics are transmitted in real time to the FDH app, allowing parents to view their child's vital signs from a distance—whether from across the hospital courtyard or from their home.
Unlike conventional hospital monitors, FDH’s solution is untethered. This opens up critical possibilities for infants, toddlers, and children in rehab, where movement is essential for development and healing. ALYN’s nurses have noted that mobile children—especially toddlers—are far less likely to dislodge sensors, while physical therapists appreciate the freedom to work without maneuvering around bulky equipment and wires.
A Research-Driven Implementation at ALYN Hospital
The Helmsley Pediatric & Adolescent Rehabilitation Research Center (PARC) at ALYN is currently conducting a user-centered study to assess the experiences of patients, families, and hospital staff with the new technology.
Potential for Hospital and Home Integration
The system is now demonstrating strong potential to enhance inpatient care. By integrating FirstDay’s platform earlier in the care process—during hospitalization—clinicians and nurses can plan more effectively for discharge, standardize observations, and facilitate smoother transitions to home monitoring when appropriate. This dual benefit makes FDH a unique solution that can improve care delivery both inside and outside hospital walls.