CarePlus

Target Users (Target Impact Group)

Distributors / Implementing Organizations

Laerdal Global Health

Manufacturing/Building Method

CarePlus is a textile garment which is mass-produced for Laerdal in China in quantities of 1000 – 5000 units per batch in order to get a low unit price.^{Interview with representative}

Intellectural Property Type

Open Source

User Provision Model

The user can procure the CarePlus on the Laerdal Global Health website.

Distributions to Date Status

Approximately 11,000 units ^{Interview with representative}

Design Specifications

The Careplus is made from high quality cotton. It is designed to be used during breastfeeding. It also has no ties on the back so it can be comfortably worn while lying down.

Technical Support

Laerdal provides instructions for use and an instructional video. The user can contact Laerdal Global Health via phone or email online for additional assistance.

Replacement Components

N/A

Lifecycle

As any textile garment, it may last long if cared for and properly washed.

There is no set life limit.^{Interview with representative}

Manufacturer Specified Performance Parameters

CarePlus is designed with a goal to help mothers in providing continuous and quality KMC to their newborns. The goal is to help save 450,000 lives a year through near-universal coverage of Kangaroo Mother Care. According to Laerdeal Heath, the CarePlus is - Safer: It feels more secure and keeps babies in correct posture. Mothers seemed to relax and did not feel the need to hold the baby. - Comfortable: Allows movement, Less fatigue for back and shoulders due to wide straps on the shoulders. - Easy to Use: Does not need an assistant. Facilitates frequent removal for breastfeeding. - Gender Neutral: The look is very acceptable for fathers to wear as well

Vetted Performance Status

CarePlus (from 2018) is independently tested by INTERTEK for compliance with the newest European safety standard for baby slings: CEN/TR 16512:2015 – Child use and care articles – Guidelines for the safety of children’s slings. ^{Interview with representative}

Safety

Risks known to exist with baby carriers intended for larger babies (> 3.5 kg) in the US are at extremely low rate of occurrence and after negligent use by the wearer, are;

•  suffocation
•  trauma to the baby from the wearer falling onto the baby
•  baby falling out of the baby carrier

Safety warnings listed in the User Guide (attached, for 2018 version) comply with CEN/TR 16512:2015 – Child use and care articles – Guidelines for the safety of children’s slings. ^{Interview with representative}

Complementary Technical Systems

MamaBreast Breastfeeding Simulator, PreemieNatalie Preterm Simulator

Academic Research and References

Compliance with regulations

CarePlus (from 2018) is independently tested for compliance with the newest European safety standard for baby slings:

CEN/TR 16512:2015 – Child use and care articles – Guidelines for the safety of children’s slings.

CarePlus is not a medical device, and medical device regulation does not apply.

CarePlus is not intended for use in the US carrying babies, so any US-specific regulations (US CPSC) or standards (ASTM) are not pursued.^{Interview with representative}