An AIIMS Raipur nurse has developed a patented device to reduce airborne infection risks during routine respiratory procedures.
Arokiaraj U, a Senior Nursing Officer at the Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, AIIMS Raipur, has created a closed respiratory support device to reduce the spread of infections in clinical settings. The invention, known as the Highly Oxygenated Aerosol Controlled (HOAC) Combo, has received a utility patent from the Indian Patent Office in New Delhi.
The HOAC Combo is designed to limit the release of aerosols during procedures like nebulisation, sputum sampling, incentive spirometry, and low-flow oxygen therapy. These are common practices in hospitals where both patients and healthcare workers are often exposed to potential airborne pathogens. By controlling aerosol dispersion, the device aims to add a layer of safety to these treatments, especially in environments with high patient turnover or limited infection control infrastructure.
The prototype is currently undergoing functional development. Funding is being sought to initiate pilot studies and clinical validation. Once tested and approved, the device could move toward large-scale use across Indian hospitals and potentially in other countries with similar healthcare settings.
The innovation was showcased at the India Innovation Summit 2025 held in New Delhi at the Bharat Mandapam Convention Centre, organised by the Department of Health Research and the Indian Council of Medical Research. It has also been published on the ATLAS of Innovation platform, which highlights promising technologies aimed at eliminating tuberculosis and improving infection control systems.
AIIMS Raipur has recognised Arokiaraj’s contribution by nominating him for the National Florence Nightingale Award and the National Science Award 2025. The Executive Director and CEO of AIIMS Raipur, Lt. Gen. Ashok Jindal (Retd), called the development a noteworthy step forward for the institute and commended the effort behind the device.
Arokiaraj acknowledged the support from the CTVS department, the Medical Superintendent, and the AIIMS administration, noting their guidance played a key role in the project. The focus now is on advancing the prototype and ensuring the device can meet real-world clinical needs.
