Date of Award

Fall 2008

Document Type

Master's Essay - Restricted

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biomedical Engineering

Abstract

My purpose for composing this paper, in addition to fulfilling the requirements of the Marquette University Graduate School, is to better understand the intricacies of the expanding field of Biomedical Engineering. Undertaking a thesis such as this has exposed me to the truly practical uses of new technology in today's health system. As with many students pursuing their degrees, I hope to apply the knowledge gained through my studies to my professional career. However, it is naive to think that learning will stop upon graduation. Indeed, the competence and perseverance which I have learned through the process of completing this work will aide my certain lifelong learning process. The breadth of this paper, though it may seem narrow, I believe touches the root of why many people pursue careers in healthcare: helping to improve the quality of care of our fellow humans. Wireless technology in a medical environment is well-suited for this ultimate goal. Through modern advances, patients in all situations are going about their daily lives free from the burdens of bulky monitoring equipment. Implantable defibrillators allow doctors to monitor a patient's vitaI signs over the Internet with minimal interaction from that patient. Future advances, such as the types of body area networking presented here, promise to further increase the health benefits of the most important player: the patient. This study hopes to tap into some of these possible benefits, and examine both the positive and negative aspects of the wireless monitoring trend. Through the examination and design of one type of wirelessly networked monitoring system, I hope to convey the passion and hopefulness that I have for this technology.

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