JP7824059B2 - Information processing device, information processing method, and information processing program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and an information processing program.

In recent years, mechanisms have been proposed that allow for appropriate recording of defecation. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a system that dynamically determines the characteristics of stool excreted in the toilet bowl and manages the results as the user's personal data, in response to the need to reduce the burden on users of recording defecation.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-38640

However, the above-mentioned conventional technologies do not necessarily make it possible to propose the most suitable care products for each care recipient.

For example, the above-mentioned conventional technology simply dynamically determines the characteristics of stool excreted in the toilet, associates the determined characteristics with the date and time of excretion of the stool, records the date and time of excretion as personal data for the toilet user, and then displays information about the stool based on the personal data.

Furthermore, the above-mentioned conventional technologies are not based on the idea of utilizing the determined stool properties to, for example, suggest nursing care products.

For these reasons, the above-mentioned conventional technologies have room for improvement in terms of proposing optimal care products for each care recipient.

This application has been made in light of the above, and aims to provide an information processing device, information processing method, and information processing program that can suggest the most appropriate nursing care products for the care recipient.

The information processing device according to the present application is characterized by having an acquisition unit that acquires property information, which is information relating to the property of the stool of a care recipient, and evaluation information that evaluates the degree to which the care recipient is independent, and a determination unit that determines nursing care products to be used in caring for the care recipient based on the property information and the evaluation information.

According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to propose the most suitable nursing care products for the care recipient.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an information processing system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an overview of information processing according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an information processing apparatus according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an independent excretion evaluation flow according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of an evaluation information database according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a property information database according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a care record database according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a decision flow according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a product information database according to the embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an event information database according to the embodiment. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an information processing procedure according to the embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration.

At least the following points become clear from the description in this specification and the accompanying drawings.

An information processing device characterized by having an acquisition unit that acquires condition information, which is information related to the condition of the care recipient's stool, and evaluation information that evaluates the degree to which the care recipient is independent, and a determination unit that determines nursing care products to be used in caring for the care recipient based on the condition information and the evaluation information.

This type of information processing device can suggest the most appropriate care products for the person receiving care.

In addition, the acquisition unit acquires, as the property information, property information that indicates the properties of the stool excreted by the care recipient, which is shown as a history.

This type of information processing device can appropriately detect the pattern of the stool properties excreted by the care recipient, making it possible to accurately predict the properties of the stool the care recipient will likely excrete next time.

The acquisition unit also acquires, as the evaluation information, evaluation information that evaluates the care recipient's ability to perform independent excretion, based on the extent to which the care recipient meets the conditions for independent excretion, such as going to the toilet by themselves and cleaning up after themselves.

This type of information processing device makes it possible to appropriately evaluate the care recipient's ability to perform independent excretion.

The information processing device also has a prediction unit that predicts the nature of the stool that the care recipient is likely to excrete based on the property information, and the determination unit determines nursing care products to be used in caring for the care recipient based on the prediction information indicating the property of the stool predicted by the prediction unit and the evaluation information.

This type of information processing device can suggest absorbent articles with functions that correspond to the characteristics of the care recipient's next stool, allowing care staff to take appropriate measures to prevent stool leakage, for example.

The prediction unit also predicts the properties of the stool to be excreted based on patterns detected from the property information, which patterns relate to the properties of the stool excreted by the care recipient.

This type of information processing device makes it possible to accurately predict the characteristics of the next stool that the care recipient will likely pass.

The prediction unit also uses care information corresponding to the care recipient to predict the properties of the stool to be excreted.

This type of information processing device can more accurately predict the characteristics of the next stool the care recipient will likely pass by combining the characteristics predicted based on patterns detected from the characteristic information with the content of the care services the care recipient received (for example, the content and amount of food, the amount of laxative administered, the content and amount of exercise, etc.).

The prediction unit also predicts the properties of the stool to be excreted using the care information, which may be any of the following: dietary information regarding the food and drink ingested by the care recipient, medication information regarding medication administered to the care recipient, exercise information regarding the exercise performed by the care recipient, or the level of care required by the caregiver.

This type of information processing device can assign weights based on the content of the care services received by the care recipient (for example, the content and amount of meals, the amount of laxative administered, the content and amount of exercise, etc.), making it possible to more accurately predict the characteristics of the care recipient's next stool.

The determination unit also determines, as the nursing care product, a removable absorbent article that corresponds to the evaluation results of the care recipient, from among absorbent articles that have the functionality to accommodate the stool characteristics predicted by the prediction unit.

This type of information processing device will have the benefit of reducing the workload of care facilities due to fecal incontinence, and of improving activities of daily living (ADL) and supporting independent excretion for care recipients, resulting in beneficial effects for both the care facility and the care recipient.

The determination unit also determines other nursing care products to be used in conjunction with the absorbent article, which are based on the properties predicted by the prediction unit and the evaluation results of the care recipient.

This type of information processing device will be able to suggest not only absorbent articles (adult diapers), but also baby wipes, baby cleansing liquids, and disposable bed sheets, allowing care staff to properly clean up after excretions.

The prediction unit also predicts the properties of the stool that may be excreted at night based on patterns relating to the properties of the stool excreted by the care recipient at night, and the determination unit further uses sleep information indicating the sleep status of the care recipient to determine a nighttime absorbent article that corresponds to the sleep status as the absorbent article.

This type of information processing device makes it possible to grasp the sleep status of the care recipient, take care to minimize disturbance to their sleep, and effectively prevent fecal leakage at night.

The acquisition unit further acquires urination information indicating the urination status of the care recipient, and the determination unit determines, as the absorbent article, an absorbent article having a function corresponding to the urination status.

This type of information processing device can, for example, reduce the risk of excrement leaking from absorbent articles due to the mixing of feces and urine.

Furthermore, if the properties predicted by the prediction unit indicate solid stool, the determination unit determines, as the absorbent article, a urine pad having functions according to the urination situation.

This type of information processing device is based on the idea that solid stool is likely to be absorbed by the outer and inner layers even if it is mixed with urine and liquefied. By using an inner urine pad, the frequency of replacement by care staff can be reduced, contributing to improved work efficiency.

The determination unit also determines a urine pad with functions according to the urination status, such as the amount of urine voided, the time of day when urination occurs, or the frequency of urination.

With this type of information processing device, for example, care staff no longer need to consider what functions a urine absorption pad should have in combination with the outerwear, and the risk of excrement leaking due to using an incompatible urine absorption pad is also reduced.

The information processing device further has a storage unit that stores, in a specified storage means, event information indicating an event that occurred as a result of the care product being used by the care recipient, and the determination unit, based on the event information, if the care product that caused the trouble for the care recipient is present among the care products, determines the care product to be used next time to care for the care recipient, excluding the care product that caused the trouble from the candidates.

With such an information processing device, it will be possible to control the system so that, for example, nursing care products that have caused bowel movements, skin problems, falls, etc. will not be suggested in the future.

In addition, if a specified care record system for managing care records has been installed in the care facility accepting the care recipient, the acquisition unit will acquire the condition information and evaluation information kept as the care record.

This type of information processing device makes it possible to establish a route for obtaining property information and evaluation information, and to efficiently collect property information and evaluation information.

Below, an example of a form for implementing an information processing device, an information processing method, and an information processing program (hereinafter referred to as an "embodiment") will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the information processing device, information processing method, and information processing program are not limited to this embodiment. Furthermore, identical components in the following embodiments will be assigned the same reference numerals, and duplicate explanations will be omitted.

[Embodiment]
1. Introduction
For example, if a diaper (adult diaper) worn by a care recipient leaks feces, it not only increases the workload for care staff but also the risk of infection. For this reason, effectively preventing fecal leakage has become an important issue in care settings.

For example, adult diapers are worn by combining an outer pants diaper with an inner pad (inner). Therefore, if the outer and inner diapers are not properly matched, they will slip and cause fecal leakage. Therefore, effective methods include preventing the outer and inner diapers from coming apart due to the wearer's movements, preventing the inner diaper from slipping due to changes in body position, combining an inner diaper with an outer diaper that suits the wearer's body type, position, and movements, and selecting an outer diaper with a function that can secure the pad.

However, there are cases where stool leakage cannot be prevented simply by matching the outer and inner layers. For example, to effectively prevent stool leakage, it is necessary to use a diaper that is suited to the nature of the stool. For example, loose stool or diarrheal stool is difficult for the pad to absorb and spreads over the surface of the pad, or stool and urine mix and spread over the surface of the pad. For this reason, measures such as selecting a pad with an area that can accommodate the spread of stool liquid, or a pad with high gathers (leak prevention walls) that stop the spread of stool liquid (a pad with three-dimensional gathers) are necessary.

However, it is not easy for care staff to predict the nature of the stool that will be excreted, and always using diapers with features that can accommodate loose stools or diarrhea as described above on care recipients may not necessarily be appropriate in terms of the physical strain that can be placed on the care recipient.

In addition, outerwear can be broadly divided into pants-type and tape-on types based on how easily it can be put on and taken off, but when considering the efficiency of changing diapers by care staff, it is preferable for care recipients to use tape-on adult diapers.

However, when tape-fastened outerwear is used, the care recipient generally has to rely on care staff to change their garments, and is unable to do so themselves. This can lead to a decline in ADL (activities of daily living) and damage to the care recipient's self-esteem, resulting in a decline in QOL (quality of life).

The present invention was developed in response to the above-mentioned circumstances, and its objective is to propose a care product that is optimal for the care recipient, for example, a care product (e.g., a combination of outer and inner wear) that can effectively prevent fecal leakage and also takes into consideration supporting the care recipient's independence.

As a method for solving this problem, the present invention acquires property information, which is information about the properties of the care recipient's stool, and evaluation information, which evaluates the care recipient's level of independence. Then, based on the property information and evaluation information, the nursing care products to be used in caring for the care recipient are determined.

[2. Overview of the system]
First, the configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an information processing system according to an embodiment. Fig. 1 shows an information processing system 1 as an example of an information processing system according to an embodiment. Information processing according to an embodiment described below is realized in the information processing system 1.

As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system 1 may include a care record system Sy, a facility device 30, and an information processing device 100. The care record system Sy, the facility device 30, and the information processing device 100 are connected to each other via a network N so that they can communicate with each other via wired or wireless communication. The information processing system 1 shown in FIG. 1 may also include any number of facility devices 30.

The nursing care record system Sy may be an external system that manages various information related to nursing care work performed at a nursing care facility as nursing care records. The nursing care facility described below is assumed to have the nursing care record system Sy installed.

The facility device 30 may be an information processing terminal used by the nursing facility (or nursing staff at the nursing facility). The facility device 30 may be realized, for example, as a smartphone, tablet terminal, notebook PC (Personal Computer), desktop PC, mobile phone, or PDA (Personal Digital Assistant).

The facility device 30 may also be equipped with an application for transmitting and receiving information to and from the information processing device 100. Such an application may be implemented as a dedicated application for accessing the information processing device 100, or may be a general-purpose application such as a browser. For example, a care staff member can access the information processing device 100 using the facility device 30 and request recommendations for nursing care products.

The information processing device 100 performs information processing according to the embodiment. Specifically, the information processing device 100 acquires condition information, which is information about the condition of the care recipient's stool, and evaluation information, which evaluates the degree to which the care recipient is able to be independent. Then, the information processing device 100, together with the acquisition unit, determines nursing care products to be used in caring for the care recipient based on the condition information and evaluation information.

Furthermore, if the facility device 30 is an edge computer that performs edge processing near the nursing care facility, the information processing device 100 may be, for example, a cloud computer that performs processing on the cloud side. In other words, the information processing device 100 may be a server device. In the following description, the business operator that manages the information processing device 100 will be referred to as business operator T.

[3. Overview of Information Processing]
An overview of information processing according to the embodiment will now be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an overview of information processing according to the embodiment.

The information processing system 1 shown in FIG. 2 includes a facility device 30-1 (an example of a facility device 30), a care record system Sy-1 (an example of a care record system Sy), and an information processing device 100.

Figure 2 also shows an example in which the facility device 30-1 is used by care staff member CA1, an employee who performs care work at the care facility A1, and the care staff member CA1 is in charge of caring for the care recipient U11.

Here, Figure 2 will explain an overview of the information processing according to the embodiment, focusing on a scene in which adult diapers (particularly outerwear) are recommended to care staff member CA1 as care products to be used in caring for care recipient U11.

In the example of Figure 2, first, care staff member CA1 evaluates the extent to which care recipient U11 can perform independent excretion, including going to the toilet and cleaning up after themselves, and may register evaluation information indicating the evaluation results in care record system Sy (step S1).

For example, care staff CA1 can evaluate the independent excretion ability of care recipient U11 based on conditions related to independent excretion. The conditions related to independent excretion may be registered in the judgment condition database 121 as an independent excretion evaluation flow (Figure 4), and care staff CA1 can evaluate the independent excretion ability of care recipient U11 by comparing this independent excretion evaluation flow with the condition of care recipient U11. Details of the independent excretion evaluation flow will be described later.

In addition, in response to the care work performed on the care recipient U11, the care staff member CA1 registers, in the care record system Sy-1, information indicating the characteristics of the care recipient's stool and care information indicating the content of the care work (step S2).

For example, care staff CA1 may use the Bristol Scale, an international standard for indicating stool characteristics, to evaluate the stool characteristics each time care recipient U11 defecates. For example, the Bristol Scale classifies stool characteristics into seven types, from Type 1 to Type 7, and care staff CA1 may visually determine which type the stool characteristics of care recipient U11 belong to, and register the determination result in care record system Sy as characteristic information indicating the stool characteristics of care recipient U11.

For example, the Bristol Scale classifies stool as "Type 1" for hard, lumpy stool, "Type 2" for short, hard stool, "Type 3" for stool with little moisture and cracks, "Type 4" for stool with a moderate softness, "Type 5" for stool with a lot of moisture and very soft, "Type 6" for stool that is formless and like mud, and "Type 7" for stool that is watery.

Furthermore, for example, care staff CA1 may register dietary information regarding the food and drink consumed by care recipient U11, medication information regarding the medication administered to care recipient U11, exercise information regarding the exercise performed by care recipient U11, etc. as care information in care record system Sy-1.

The care record system Sy-1 stores the information registered by care staff CA1 as a care record (step S3).

For example, the nursing care record system Sy-1 may associate a facility ID that identifies the nursing care facility A1, a care recipient ID that identifies the care recipient U11, and evaluation information that evaluates the ability to excrete independently, and store these in a database. The nursing care record system Sy-1 may also associate a facility ID that identifies the nursing care facility A1, a care recipient ID that identifies the care recipient U11, and property information that indicates the property of stool, and store these in a database. The nursing care record system Sy-1 may also associate a facility ID that identifies the nursing care facility A1, a care recipient ID that identifies the care recipient U11, and nursing care information, and store these in a database.

Furthermore, if the information registered by care staff member CA1 is stored as a care record in the care record system Sy-1, the information processing device 100 can acquire this care record from the care record system Sy-1 (step S4). For example, the information processing device 100 may acquire the care record at any time, or may acquire the care record when a request is received to recommend care products to be used for the care recipient U11. Furthermore, the care record acquired by the information processing device 100 may include condition information, care information, and evaluation information corresponding to the care recipient U11.

When the information processing device 100 acquires the care record, it detects the pattern of the characteristics of the stool excreted by the care recipient U11 based on the characteristic information contained in the care record (step S5). For example, each piece of characteristic information indicates the characteristics of the stool that the care recipient U11 has excreted to date, so the information processing device 100 can detect the pattern of the characteristics of the stool excreted by the care recipient U11 based on the history of the characteristics of the stool that the care recipient U11 has excreted to date.

For example, the information processing device 100 may detect a pattern of stool characteristics over time, such as the type of stool that the care recipient U11 tends to periodically excrete. Furthermore, for example, the information processing device 100 may combine the characteristic information with the care information to detect a pattern of stool characteristics that corresponds to the type of care provided, such as the type of stool that the care recipient U11 tends to excrete based on the care record. As a result, the information processing device 100 can detect stool characteristics patterns, such as a tendency to excrete Type 3 "solid stool" in the morning but Type 6 "watery stool" at night, or a tendency to excrete Type 2 "solid stool" normally but Type 7 "watery stool" after the administration of a laxative.

Next, the information processing device 100 predicts the nature of the next stool to be excreted by the care recipient U11 based on the stool nature pattern (nature pattern) detected in step S5 and the care information (step S6). For example, the information processing device 100 may predict when and what nature of stool will be excreted, the timing of excretion, and the nature of the stool to be excreted at this timing.

Next, the information processing device 100 determines adult diapers (outerwear) as the care product to be used in caring for the care recipient U11 based on the evaluation information acquired in step S4 and the prediction information indicating the prediction result predicted in step S6 (step S7).

For example, the information processing device 100 may determine the removable type of adult diaper (pants type or tape type) by applying the possibility of independent excretion determined from the evaluation information (the care recipient U11's ability to excrete independently) acquired in step S4 and the prediction result predicted in step S6 to a decision flow (Figure 8) that defines the decision logic for nursing care products.The information processing device 100 may then determine the removable type of adult diaper determined this time as the recommendation target from among the adult diapers commercialized by business operator T.

Then, the information processing device 100 recommends adult diapers, which are the care product determined in step S7, to care staff member CA1 (step S8). For example, assume that the information processing device 100 determines pants-type adult diapers PT1 as the care product to be used in caring for care recipient U11. In this case, the information processing device 100 may recommend adult diapers PT1 to care staff member CA1 by generating suggested content C1, which is a screen on which adult diapers PT1 are proposed, as shown in FIG. 2, and distributing the generated suggested content C1 to care staff member CA1's facility device 30-1.

Here, as shown in FIG. 2, the suggested content C1 may display product information P11 indicating the adult diaper PT1. Also, as shown in FIG. 2, the product information PD11 may be composed of text indicating that the adult diaper PT1 is a pants type and an image of the package of the adult diaper PT1. Also, the suggested content C1 may include link information (URL) that transitions to a details screen for the product indicated by the product information PD11.

Up to this point, an overview of the information processing performed by the information processing device 100 has been explained using Figure 2. With this information processing device 100, it is possible to determine as a nursing care product an absorbent article that has the functionality to accommodate the characteristics of the care recipient's stool and that also takes into account the care recipient's ability to perform independent excretion, making it possible to propose the optimal nursing care product for the care recipient. Furthermore, with this information processing device 100, the nursing care facility benefits in that it reduces the workload caused by stool leakage, and the care recipient benefits in that it supports independence in ADL, thereby providing beneficial effects for both the nursing care facility and the care recipient.

4. Configuration of Information Processing Device
Next, an information processing device 100 according to an embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing device 100 according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 3, the information processing device 100 includes a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130.

(Regarding the communication unit 110)
The communication unit 110 is realized by, for example, a NIC etc. The communication unit 110 is connected to the network N by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from, for example, the facility device 30 and the care record system Sy.

(Regarding the storage unit 120)
The storage unit 120 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk, an optical disk, etc. The storage unit 120 has a judgment condition database 121, an evaluation information database 122, a characteristic information database 123, a care record database 124, a decision logic database 125, a product information database 126, and an event information database 127.

(Regarding the judgment condition database 121)
The judgment condition database 121 stores information about the independent excretion evaluation flow. As explained in Fig. 2, the independent excretion evaluation flow is condition information in the form of a flow chart that provides conditions for evaluating the independent excretion ability of a care recipient based on the extent to which the care recipient is capable of independent excretion, such as going to the toilet by himself and cleaning up after himself.

The independent excretion assessment flow will now be described using Figure 4. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the independent excretion assessment flow according to the embodiment. According to the example in Figure 4, the independent excretion assessment flow is branched into eight routes, and care staff can assess the independent excretion ability of the care recipient by following the branches depending on, for example, whether the care recipient receives assistance from people around them, whether the care recipient can pull up and down their pants in the toilet room, and the state of fecal incontinence (or urinary incontinence).

Specifically, in the example of Figure 4, the independent excretion assessment flow branches into eight routes: routes RT11, RT12, RT13, RT14, and routes RT21, RT22, RT23, and RT24. At the end of each route is associated information for assessing independent excretion ability on a five-level scale: S rank, A rank, B rank, C rank, D rank, and E rank. For example, progressing from S rank to E rank indicates a decline in independent excretion ability. Each route is explained in detail below.

Route RT11 is a route that can be taken by a care recipient who has been determined to be able to "go to the toilet by themselves without assistance from others", who "can relieve themselves in the toilet by pulling up and down their pants", and who "does not have fecal (urinary) incontinence or only has occasional fecal (urinary) incontinence", according to a three-stage process. This shows an example in which rules are set to evaluate the independent excretion ability of such a care recipient as "S rank".

Route RT12 is a route that can be taken by a care recipient who has been determined to be able to "go to the toilet by themselves without assistance from others" and "relieve themselves in the toilet by pulling up and down their pants in the toilet room," but who "has fecal incontinence (urinary incontinence) every time," based on a three-stage process. This shows an example in which rules are assigned to evaluate the independent excretion ability of such a care recipient as "Rank B."

Route RT13 is a route that can be taken by a care recipient who is able to "go to the toilet by themselves without assistance from others" but has difficulty "pulling up and down their pants in the toilet room" and who has been determined to have "no fecal (urinary) incontinence or only occasional fecal (urinary) incontinence" through a three-stage process. This shows an example in which rules are set to evaluate the independent excretion ability of such a care recipient as "Rank A."

Route RT14 is a route that can be taken by a care recipient who has been determined to be able to "go to the toilet by themselves without assistance from others" but who has difficulty "pulling up and down their pants in the toilet room" and who "has fecal incontinence (urinary incontinence) every time" through a three-stage process. This shows an example in which rules are assigned to evaluate the independent excretion ability of such a care recipient as "Rank C."

Route RT21 is a route that can be taken by a care recipient who has been assessed in three stages as "requiring assistance from others when going to the toilet" but "being able to relieve themselves in the toilet by pulling up and down their pants in the toilet room" and "not experiencing fecal (urinary) incontinence or only experiencing occasional fecal (urinary) incontinence." This is an example of a rule that assesses the independent excretion ability of such a care recipient as "Rank A."

Route RT22 is a route that can be taken by a care recipient who has been determined to have the following three stages: "requires assistance from others when going to the toilet," but "is able to relieve himself/herself in the toilet room by pulling up and down his/her pants," but "has fecal incontinence (urinary incontinence) every time." This is an example of a rule that evaluates the independent excretion ability of such a care recipient as "Rank B."

Route RT23 is a route that can be taken by a care recipient who has been assessed in three stages as having difficulty "pulling up and down their pants in the toilet room" in addition to "requiring assistance from others when going to the toilet," but who has "no fecal (urinary) incontinence or only occasional fecal (urinary) incontinence." This shows an example in which rules are set to assess the independent excretion ability of such a care recipient as "Rank D."

Route RT23 is a route that can be taken by a care recipient who has been determined to have three levels of difficulty: "requires assistance from others when going to the toilet," "pulls up and down their pants in the toilet room," and "has fecal (urinary) incontinence every time." This is an example of a rule that evaluates the independent excretion ability of such a care recipient as "Rank E."

Note that the independent toileting assessment flow shown in Figure 4 is merely an example, and can be modified as appropriate, for example, based on the nursing staff's experience, and the conditions for determining what ranks to use may also be changed as desired.

The independent excretion assessment flow shown in Figure 4 may be used, for example, to compare with the results of a visual inspection of the care recipient by care staff, or it may also be used for dynamic condition determination by the information processing device 100. For example, the information processing device 100 may analyze the movements that the care recipient can perform and the range of motion of the care recipient's joints based on video images of the care recipient walking, sitting, standing up, etc., and may dynamically evaluate the care recipient's independent excretion ability by comparing the analysis results with the independent excretion assessment flow.

Furthermore, the information processing device 100 may determine, for example, that a care recipient who is evaluated as S rank or A rank is "capable of independent excretion," and that a care recipient who is evaluated as any of B rank to E rank is "unable to independent excretion."

(Regarding the evaluation information database 122)
The evaluation information database 122 stores information about the independent excretion ability of the care recipient evaluated using the independent excretion evaluation flow shown in Fig. 4. An example of the evaluation information database 122 according to the embodiment is shown in Fig. 5. In the example of Fig. 5, the evaluation information database 122 has items such as "facility ID,""care recipient ID,""level of care required," and "independent excretion ability."

"Facility ID" indicates identification information that identifies a nursing care facility. "Care recipient ID" indicates identification information that identifies a facility user receiving nursing care services at the nursing care facility indicated by the "Facility ID". "Level of care required" is information about the level of care required set for the care recipient indicated by the "Care recipient ID". "Independent excretion ability" is information that indicates the independent excretion ability of the care recipient indicated by the "Care recipient ID" as evaluated using the independent excretion evaluation flow, and corresponds to evaluation information that evaluates the degree of independence of the care recipient from the perspective of excretion-related behavior.

Figure 5 shows an example in which facility ID "A1," care recipient ID "U11," level of care required "Level 1," and independent excretion ability "S" are associated. In this example, care recipient U11, who is receiving care services at nursing facility A1, is a user with level 1 care required, and has been evaluated as having an S-rank ability for independent excretion based on the independent excretion evaluation flow.

(Regarding the property information database 123)
The condition information database 123 stores condition information, which is information relating to the characteristics of the stool of a care recipient. An example of the condition information database 123 according to this embodiment is shown in Fig. 6. In the example of Fig. 6, the condition information database 123 has items such as "facility ID,""care recipient ID," and "condition information."

"Facility ID" indicates identification information that identifies a nursing facility. "Care recipient ID" indicates identification information that identifies a facility user receiving nursing care services at the nursing facility indicated by the "Facility ID". "Characteristics information" may be, for example, information that associates the characteristics of the stool excreted with each defecation date and time that the care recipient indicated by the "Care recipient ID" has previously defecate. In other words, "Characteristics information" may be historical information that indicates the characteristics of the stool excreted to date by the care recipient indicated by the "Care recipient ID".

Figure 6 shows an example in which facility ID "A1," care recipient ID "U11," and characteristic information "stool characteristic #11" are associated. This example shows an example in which stool characteristic #11 is obtained as historical information indicating the characteristics of stool excreted by care recipient U11, who is receiving care services at nursing facility A1, based on previous defecations.

As described in Figure 2, the stool properties may be determined by the care staff, for example, by visually inspecting the stool and comparing it with a Bristol scale. On the other hand, if the adult diaper worn by the care recipient is equipped with a sensor capable of detecting the condition of the stool, the stool properties may be sensor information detected by the sensor.

(Regarding the nursing care record database 124)
The care record database 124 stores the details of care provided to the care recipient as a care record. FIG. 7 shows an example of the care record database 124 according to the embodiment. In the example of FIG. 7, the care record database 124 has items such as a "facility ID," a "care recipient ID,""diet and drink information,""medicationinformation," and "exercise information." Of course, the care record database 124 may have items other than "diet and drink information,""medicationinformation," and "exercise information" depending on the care work provided to the care recipient.

"Facility ID" indicates identification information that identifies a nursing care facility. "Care recipient ID" indicates identification information that identifies a facility user receiving nursing care services at the nursing care facility indicated by the "Facility ID".

"Diet information" includes information about the food and drink consumed by the care recipient indicated by the "care recipient ID." For example, "diet information" may be a diet history related to the food and drink consumed by the care recipient indicated by the "care recipient ID," such as when, what food and drink was given, and how much.

"Medication information" includes information about medications administered to the care recipient indicated by the "care recipient ID." For example, "medication information" may be a medication history regarding medication details, such as when, how much, and what type of medication was administered to the care recipient indicated by the "care recipient ID."

"Exercise information" may be historical information about the exercise content, such as when, for how long, and what type of exercise (recreation) the care recipient indicated by the "care recipient ID" performed.

Figure 7 shows an example in which facility ID "A1," care recipient ID "U11," food and drink information "food and drink content #11," medication information "medication content #11," and exercise information "exercise content #11" are associated with each other. This example shows an example in which food and drink content #11 is obtained as history information indicating the content of food and drink in accordance with the food and drink that care recipient U11, who is receiving care services at care facility A1, has eaten and drunk in the past. It also shows an example in which medication content #11 is obtained as history information indicating the content of medication in accordance with the medication that care recipient U11 has taken in the past. It also shows an example in which exercise content #11 is obtained as history information indicating the content of exercise in accordance with the exercise that care recipient U11 has exercised in the past.

(Regarding Decision Logic Database 125)
The decision logic database 125 stores information about a decision flow for determining a care product. As described in Fig. 2, the decision flow is condition information in the form of a decision logic for determining an appropriate type of adult diaper (outerwear) for the care recipient, from among the types of diapers suitable for the care recipient.

The decision flow will now be described using Figure 8. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of a decision flow according to the embodiment. For example, the information processing device 100 can determine the type of adult diaper that is suitable for the care recipient by applying the possibility of independent excretion determined from the care recipient's independent excretion ability and the predicted stool properties for the care recipient to the decision flow in Figure 8. Specifically, the information processing device 100 can use the decision flow to determine which type of adult diaper is suitable for the care recipient, between pants-type adult diapers and tape-type adult diapers.

From here on, we will explain the process for using the decision flow to determine the appropriate attachment type for a care recipient. Specifically, we will explain the process for determining the attachment type for each care recipient using the example of care recipient U11, whose independent excretion ability has been evaluated as "S rank," and care recipient U21, whose independent excretion ability has been evaluated as "D rank."

First, an example of the care recipient U11 will be described. For example, the decision unit 135 of the information processing device 100 determines whether the care recipient U11 is capable of independent excretion based on the fact that the care recipient U11's ability to excrete independently is "S rank" (step S81). For example, the decision unit 135 may determine that the care recipient U11 is capable of independent excretion based on the fact that the ability to excrete independently is "S rank."

In this way, when the decision unit 135 determines that independent excretion is possible (step S81; Yes), it determines whether the nature of the next stool excreted by the care recipient U11 will be solid stool (for example, solid stool belonging to any of types 1 to 5) based on the prediction result corresponding to the care recipient U11 (the prediction result for the nature of the next stool excreted by the care recipient U11) (step S82).

For example, if the determination unit 135 determines that the next stool excreted by the care recipient U11 will be solid (step S82; Yes), it determines the "pants type" as the removable type suitable for the care recipient U11. In this way, the determination unit 135 determines the pants type suitable for independent excretion, since the risk of stool leakage is low if the stool is solid.

On the other hand, if the decision unit 135 determines that the next stool excreted by the care recipient U11 will not be solid (step S82; No), that is, if the decision unit 135 determines that the next stool excreted by the care recipient U11 will be watery (for example, watery stool belonging to either type 6 or type 7), it decides on the "tape-fastened type" as the removable type suitable for the care recipient U11. Here, watery stool has a higher risk of stool leakage than solid stool. Therefore, even if the care recipient U11 is capable of independent excretion, if it is predicted that watery stool will be excreted, the decision unit 135 decides on the tape-fastened type, which is easier for care staff to change than the pants-type, with an emphasis on the higher risk of stool leakage.

Next, an example of a care recipient U21 will be described. For example, the decision unit 135 of the information processing device 100 determines whether the care recipient U21 is capable of independent excretion based on the fact that the care recipient U21's ability to excrete independently is "Rank D" (Step S81). For example, the decision unit 135 may determine that the care recipient U21 is unable to excrete independently based on the fact that the ability to excrete independently is "Rank D."

In this way, when the decision unit 135 determines that independent excretion is not possible (step S81; No), it decides that the "tape-fastened type" is the detachable type suitable for the care recipient U21, regardless of the prediction result corresponding to the care recipient U21 (prediction result for the characteristics of the next stool excreted by the care recipient U21).

As such, the inability to independently excrete suggests that the care recipient U21 spends most of their time sleeping and has an impairment in excretory function, meaning that diaper changes are left to the care staff. Therefore, the determination unit 135 determines a tape-fastened type, which is easier for care staff to change than a pants-type diaper.

(Regarding the product information database 126)
The product information database 126 stores product information related to nursing care products. The nursing care products registered as products in the product information database 126 may be manufactured and sold by the business entity T.

Here, Figure 9 shows an example of the product information database 126 according to the embodiment. In the example of Figure 9, the product information database 126 has items such as "Outerwear Information" corresponding to product information indicating a product as an outerwear (outer pants) and "Innerwear Information" corresponding to product information indicating a product as an innerwear (inner pad).

The "outerwear information" section includes items such as "detachable type," "condition," "target rank," and "product information." The "innerwear information" section includes items such as "gender," "time of day," "symptoms," "absorption capacity," and "combined innerwear."

First, let me explain "Outerwear Information."

"Detachable type" is information that indicates the detachable type of outerwear, and as explained above, "detachable type" includes "pants type" and "tape-fastened type." Of course, there are other types of "detachable type" besides "pants type" and "tape-fastened type" (for example, 2-way type), but this embodiment focuses on the two types, "pants type" and "tape-fastened type."

"Status" is information about possible physical conditions of the care recipient. As shown in Figure 9, possible physical conditions of the care recipient include "Able to walk alone," "Able to walk with assistance," "Able to stand up or sit down alone," "Has excretory dysfunction," and "Spends most of the time sleeping." Of course, these are just some examples.

"Target rank" is information regarding the candidate ranks that can be used to evaluate the independent toileting ability of the care recipient. As explained above, independent toileting ability may be evaluated using five ranks: S rank, A rank, B rank, C rank, D rank, and E rank. Therefore, these five ranks may be included in the candidate ranks.

"Product Information" shows product information about outerwear that corresponds to the "detachable type," "condition," and "target rank" and is available on the market as a product.

Figure 9 shows an example in which the "pants type" detachable type, the condition "Able to walk alone," the target rank "Rank S," and product information "PD11" are associated. This example shows that a "pants type" outerwear is suitable for a care recipient who is physically able to "walk alone" and has an "S rank" independent excretion ability, and that the product shown in product information PD11 is recommended as a "pants type" outerwear.

Figure 9 also shows an example in which the detachable type "tape-fastened type," the condition "sleeping most of the time," the target ranks "Rank D" and "Rank E," and the product information "PD22" are associated. This example shows that a "tape-fastened type" outerwear is suitable for a care recipient with a physical condition of "sleeping most of the time" and an independent excretion ability of "Rank D" or "Rank E," and that the product shown in product information PD22 is recommended as a "tape-fastened type" outerwear.

Next, I'll explain about "insider information."

"Gender" is information indicating the gender for which the "combined innerwear" is suitable. "Time of day" is information indicating the time of day the innerwear is suitable for use, and may be divided into "daytime" and "nighttime" as shown in Figure 9.

"Symptoms" is information that indicates the type of urination symptoms that the innerwear is suitable for use with. For example, as shown in Figure 9, the time period "daytime" may be associated with the symptoms "light" and "medium."

"Absorption capacity" is information indicating the amount of urine absorption capacity of an innerwear suitable for a care recipient with the corresponding "symptom," and the specific absorption capacity may be shown as a numerical value, as shown in Figure 9.

"Matching innerwear" is information that indicates what innerwear is suitable as a candidate for pairing with the outerwear indicated by the corresponding "product information," and indicates innerwear that matches "time of day," "symptoms," and "absorption capacity."

Figure 9 shows an example in which product information "PD11" is associated with a time period of "daytime," a symptom of "small amount," an absorption capacity of "200cc-250cc," and a matching inner layer of "not required." This example explains that if a care recipient using an outer layer such as that shown in product information PD11 experiences a "small amount" of urinary incontinence during the "daytime" period, an outer layer with an absorption capacity of "200cc-250cc" (such as that shown in product information PD11) is sufficient, and that a matching inner layer is not required.

Figure 9 also shows an example in which product information "PD11" is associated with a time period of "daytime," symptoms of "medium amount," absorption capacity of "300cc," and a matching innerwear "daytime pants urine absorption pad." This example explains that if a care recipient using the outerwear indicated in product information PD11 experiences "medium amount" urinary incontinence symptoms during the "daytime" time period, it would be appropriate to combine it with an innerwear that has an absorption capacity of "300cc" and is specified as a "daytime pants urine absorption pad."

Figure 9 also shows an example in which product information "PD22" is associated with the time period "night use," the symptom "very heavy," the absorption capacity "800cc," and the matching innerwear "highly absorbent urine pad for restful sleep." This example explains that if a care recipient using the outerwear indicated in product information PD22 experiences "very heavy" urinary incontinence symptoms during the "nighttime" time period, it would be appropriate to combine it with an innerwear that has an absorption capacity of "800cc" and is specified as a "highly absorbent urine pad for restful sleep."

(Regarding the event information database 127)
The event information database 127 stores event information indicating an event that occurred as a result of a care recipient using a nursing care product. An example of the event information database 127 according to the embodiment is shown in Fig. 10. In the example of Fig. 10, the event information database 127 has items such as "facility ID,""care recipient ID,""usageinformation," and "trouble information."

"Facility ID" indicates identification information that identifies a nursing care facility. "Care recipient ID" indicates identification information that identifies a facility user receiving nursing care services at the nursing care facility indicated by the "Facility ID".

"Usage information" includes information about the nursing care products used for the care recipient indicated by the "care recipient ID." For example, "usage information" may be a nursing care product usage history, such as when and what nursing care products were used for the care recipient indicated by the "care recipient ID."

"Trouble Information" is information that indicates the type of trouble that occurred (for example, fecal incontinence, urinary incontinence, skin rash, infection, pressure due to inappropriate size, etc.) when the care product indicated in "Usage Information" was used.

Figure 10 shows an example in which facility ID "A1," care recipient ID "U11," usage information "Usage Details #11," and trouble information "Trouble Details #11" are associated. This example shows an example in which, in response to the use of care products for care recipient U11, who is receiving care services at care facility A1, usage details #11 is obtained as historical information indicating the details of the care products used, and also shows an example in which the use of the care product indicated by usage details #11 resulted in a trouble indicated by trouble details #11.

(Regarding the control unit 130)
3, the control unit 130 is realized by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or the like executing various programs stored in a storage device inside the information processing device 100 using RAM as a work area. The control unit 130 is also realized by an integrated circuit, such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit 130 has a reception unit 131, an acquisition unit 132, a detection unit 133, a prediction unit 134, a determination unit 135, a presentation unit 136, and a storage unit 137, and realizes or executes the information processing functions and actions described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 130 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 3, and may be other configurations that perform the information processing described below. Furthermore, the connection relationships between the processing units in the control unit 130 are not limited to the connection relationships shown in FIG. 3, and may be other connection relationships.

(Regarding the Reception Unit 131)
The reception unit 131 receives a recommendation request for a nursing care product. For example, the reception unit 131 receives a recommendation request for a nursing care product from a nursing staff member. That is, the reception unit 131 receives a recommendation request for a nursing care product from the facility device 30.

(Regarding the acquisition unit 132)
The acquiring unit 132 acquires property information, which is information about the property of the stool of the care recipient, and evaluation information, which evaluates how independent the care recipient is. For example, when the receiving unit 131 receives a recommendation request, the acquiring unit 132 may acquire the property information and the evaluation information.

For example, the acquisition unit 132 acquires, as the characteristic information, characteristic information that indicates the characteristics of the stool excreted by the care recipient as a history.

Furthermore, for example, the acquisition unit 132 acquires evaluation information that evaluates the care recipient's ability to perform independent excretion, based on the extent to which the care recipient meets the conditions for independent excretion, such as going to the toilet by themselves and cleaning up after themselves.

In addition, if a specified care record system Sy for managing care records has been introduced in the care facility accepting the care recipient, the acquisition unit 132 may acquire the condition information and evaluation information kept as care records from the care record system Sy.

The acquisition unit 132 may also acquire care information (care information corresponding to the care recipient) stored as care records.

(Regarding the detection unit 133)
The detection unit 133 detects a pattern of the properties of the stool excreted by the care recipient U11 based on the property information acquired by the acquisition unit 132. For example, the detection unit 133 may detect a pattern of the properties of the stool excreted by the care recipient U11 based on a history indicated by the property information, that is, a history of the properties of the stool excreted by the care recipient.

As an example, the detection unit 133 may detect a pattern of stool characteristics over time, i.e., what type of stool the care recipient tends to excrete periodically. For example, the detection unit 133 may detect a pattern of stool characteristics during the daytime, i.e., what type of stool the care recipient tends to excrete during the daytime. Furthermore, the detection unit 133 may detect a pattern of stool characteristics during the nighttime, i.e., what type of stool the care recipient tends to excrete during the nighttime.

In another example, the detection unit 133 may combine the property information and the care information to detect the type of stool the care recipient tends to excrete depending on the care provided, or the pattern of stool properties depending on the type of care provided.

(Regarding the prediction unit 134)
The prediction unit 134 predicts the properties of the stool to be excreted, that is, the properties of the stool that the care recipient is likely to excrete, based on the property information acquired by the acquisition unit 132. For example, the prediction unit 134 predicts the properties of the stool to be excreted based on a pattern detected based on the property information, which is related to the properties of the stool excreted by the care recipient.

The prediction unit 134 may further use care information corresponding to the care recipient to predict the properties of the stool to be excreted. For example, the prediction unit 134 may predict the properties of the stool to be excreted based on a pattern of stool properties detected based on information combining property information and care information. Specifically, the prediction unit 134 may predict the properties of the stool to be excreted using any of the following care information: dietary information regarding food and drink ingested by the care recipient, medication information regarding medication administered to the care recipient, exercise information regarding exercise performed by the care recipient, or the level of care required by the caregiver.

In addition, if a pattern related to the characteristics of the stool excreted by the care recipient during the nighttime hours is detected, the prediction unit 134 may predict the characteristics of the stool that may be excreted during the nighttime hours based on the pattern of stool characteristics during the nighttime hours.

(Regarding the determination unit 135)
The determiner 135 determines a nursing care product to be used for caring for the care recipient based on the property information and evaluation information acquired by the acquirer 132. For example, the determiner 135 may determine a nursing care product to be used for caring for the care recipient based on the prediction information indicating the property of stool predicted by the predictor 134 and the evaluation information. As an example, the determiner 135 may determine, as the nursing care product, a removable absorbent article according to the evaluation result of the care recipient, from among absorbent articles having a function capable of dealing with stool of the property predicted by the predictor.

Furthermore, if a pattern related to the characteristics of the stool excreted by the care recipient during the nighttime hours is detected, the determination unit 135 may determine an absorbent article for nighttime use that suits the sleep conditions of the care recipient based on the pattern of stool characteristics during the nighttime hours and the sleep conditions of the care recipient.

Here, the acquisition unit 132 may further acquire urination information indicating the urination status of the care recipient. In such a case, the determination unit 135 can determine, as the absorbent article, an absorbent article having functions according to the urination status. Specifically, the determination unit 135 can determine a urine absorption pad having functions according to the urination status. For example, when the characteristics predicted by the prediction unit 134 indicate solid stool, the determination unit 135 may further determine, in addition to outer pants, a urine absorption pad having functions according to the urination status. For example, the determination unit 135 may determine a urine absorption pad having functions according to the amount of urine, the tendency of the time of urination, or the urination frequency as the urination status.

When the determination unit 135 determines an absorbent article such as an outer or inner garment, it may further determine other nursing care products to be used in conjunction with the absorbent article. For example, the determination unit 135 may further determine baby wipes or baby cleanser as other nursing care products based on the properties predicted by the prediction unit 134 and the evaluation results of the care recipient.

(Regarding the presentation unit 136)
The presentation unit 136 presents the nursing care product determined by the determination unit 135 as a recommended product to the nursing staff. For example, the presentation unit 136 may generate suggested content, which is a screen on which the nursing care product determined by the determination unit 135 is proposed, and present the generated suggested content to the nursing staff. In this case, the presentation unit 136 transmits the suggested content to the facility device 30 that transmitted the recommendation request.

(Regarding the storage unit 137)
The storage unit 137 stores event information indicating an event that occurred as a result of the care recipient using the nursing care product in the event information database 127. For example, when a problem occurs in the care recipient due to the care recipient using the nursing care product, the storage unit 137 stores information indicating the problem that occurred in the event information database 127 as event information.

In such a case, if the determination unit 135 determines based on the trouble information that the nursing care product is the cause of the trouble that occurred to the care recipient, the determination unit 135 may determine the nursing care product to be used next time to care for the care recipient, with the nursing care product that caused the trouble excluded from the candidates.

5. Processing Procedure
Next, the procedure of information processing according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing the procedure of information processing according to the embodiment. In the example of Fig. 11, the information processing device 100 acquires evaluation information in which the independent excretion ability is evaluated using a five-level ranking, property information indicating the property of stool determined using the Bristol scale, and care information indicating the content of care according to various care tasks from the care record system Sy, and registers these in the database of the information processing device 100.

In the example of FIG. 11, the reception unit 131 determines whether a recommendation request requesting the recommendation of nursing care products has been received from the facility device 30 (step S101). While the reception unit 131 determines that a recommendation request has not been received (step S101; No), it waits until it can determine that a recommendation request has been received.

On the other hand, if the acquisition unit 132 determines that a recommendation request has been received (Step S101; Yes), it identifies the care recipient corresponding to the recommendation request, for example, based on the information included in the recommendation request (Step S102). For example, the acquisition unit 132 identifies the care recipient corresponding to the recommendation request, such as for which care recipient in which nursing care facility a recommendation of nursing care products to be used is requested.

In the example of FIG. 11, the acquisition unit 132 has identified care recipient U11 at nursing care facility A1 as the care recipient corresponding to the recommendation request. The following explanation will use care recipient U11 as an example.

The acquisition unit 132 then acquires evaluation information corresponding to the care recipient U11 (step S103). For example, the acquisition unit 132 acquires evaluation information indicating the evaluation results of the care recipient U11's ability to perform independent excretion from the evaluation information database 122.

The acquisition unit 132 also acquires condition information and care information corresponding to the care recipient U11 (step S104). For example, the acquisition unit 132 acquires condition information indicating the characteristics of the stool that the care recipient U11 has excreted to date as a history from the condition information database 123. The acquisition unit 132 also acquires care information indicating the content of care services that the care recipient U11 has received to date as a history from the care record database 124.

Next, the detection unit 133 detects the pattern of the properties of the stool excreted by the care recipient U11 based on the property information acquired in step S104 (step S105). For example, the detection unit 133 detects the pattern of the properties of the stool excreted by the care recipient U11 based on the history of the properties of the stool excreted by the care recipient, which is indicated by the property information.

As a result, the detection unit 133 can detect the type of stool that the care recipient U11 tends to pass during the daytime, detecting the pattern of stool properties during the daytime, and the type of stool that the care recipient U11 tends to pass during the night, detecting the pattern of stool properties during the night.

In addition, the detection unit 133 may combine the condition information corresponding to the care recipient U11 with the care information to detect the type of stool the care recipient U11 tends to excrete depending on the care record, and the pattern of stool characteristics depending on the care content.

Next, the prediction unit 134 predicts the nature of the next stool to be excreted by the care recipient U11 based on the nature pattern detected in step S105 and the care information corresponding to the care recipient U11 (step S106). For example, the prediction unit 134 may predict when and what nature of stool will be excreted, the excretion timing, and the nature of the stool to be excreted at this timing.

Next, the determination unit 135 determines whether the care recipient U11 is capable of independent excretion based on the evaluation information acquired in step S103 (step S107). For example, if the evaluation information indicates an S rank or an A rank, the determination unit 135 may determine that the care recipient U11 is "capable of independent excretion," whereas if the evaluation information indicates any of the B ranks to E ranks, the determination unit 135 may determine that the care recipient U11 is "unable to independently excrete."

The decision unit 135 then applies the possibility of independent excretion determined in step S107 (determination result) and the stool properties predicted in step S106 (prediction result) to the decision flow described in Figure 8 to determine the appropriate attachment/detachment type for the care recipient U11 (step S108). For example, using the decision flow in Figure 8, the decision unit 135 determines whether a pants type or a tape-fastened type is suitable for the care recipient U11 as the attachment/detachment type of outerwear (outer pants), which is an example of an absorbent article.

In addition, based on the prediction result obtained in step S106, the decision unit 135 determines whether the next time the care recipient U11 will defecate will be during the daytime (step S109).

For example, if the determination unit 135 determines that the stool will be excreted during the daytime (step S109; Yes), it determines the outerwear to be recommended from the detachable daytime outerwear determined in step S108 according to the condition of the care recipient U11 and the rank of independent excretion ability corresponding to the care recipient U11 (step S110a). For example, the determination unit 135 can determine the outerwear product to be recommended by comparing the condition of the care recipient U11 and the rank of independent excretion ability corresponding to the care recipient U11 with the product information database 126.

In addition, here, the acquisition unit 132 may acquire urination information indicating the daytime urination status of the care recipient U11 (step S111a).

The determination unit 135 then determines, from among the innerwear that can be combined with the outerwear to be recommended determined in step S110a, the innerwear that has functions according to the daytime urination status of the care recipient U11 as the innerwear to be recommended (step S112a). For example, the determination unit 135 can determine the innerwear product to be recommended by comparing the daytime urination status of the care recipient U11 with the product information database 126.

Here, the determination unit 135 may determine the innerwear to be combined with the outerwear in steps S111a to S112a (or steps S111b to S112b) only if it is predicted that the next stool excreted by the care recipient U11 will be solid stool belonging to any of types 1 to 5. This process is based on the idea that if the stool is solid, even if it is mixed with urine and liquefied, the risk of leakage is low because it will be absorbed by the outerwear and innerwear.

Returning to the explanation, for example, suppose the determination unit 135 determines that the stool will be excreted at night (step S109; No). In this case, the determination unit 135 determines, from the detachable nighttime outerwear determined in step S108, an outerwear item that corresponds to the condition of the care recipient U11 and the independent excretion ability rank corresponding to the care recipient U11, as the outerwear item to be recommended (step S110b). The determination unit 135 can determine the outerwear product to be recommended by comparing the condition of the care recipient U11 and the independent excretion ability rank corresponding to the care recipient U11 with the product information database 126.

The acquisition unit 132 may also acquire urination information indicating the nighttime urination status of the care recipient U11 (step S111b).

The determination unit 135 then determines, from among the innerwear that can be combined with the outerwear to be recommended determined in step S110b, the innerwear that has functions according to the nighttime urination status of the care recipient U11 as the innerwear to be recommended (step S112b). The determination unit 135 can determine the innerwear product to be recommended by comparing the nighttime urination status of the care recipient U11 with the product information database 126.

The determination unit 135 may further use sleep information indicating the sleeping conditions of the care recipient U11 to determine an overnight absorbent article appropriate for the sleeping conditions as the recommended outerwear. For example, if the sleep information indicates that the care recipient U11 is a deep sleeper and difficult to wake up, the determination unit 135 may determine an outerwear or innerwear with a low height of three-dimensional gathers, or a combination of both, from the perspective that the risk of leakage is low even if the care recipient U11 has a bowel movement at night. On the other hand, if the sleep information indicates that the care recipient U11 is a light sleeper and moves around vigorously in bed at night, the determination unit 135 may determine an outerwear or innerwear with a high height of three-dimensional gathers, from the perspective that the risk of leakage is high if the care recipient U11 has a bowel movement.

The determination unit 135 may also determine an outer or inner garment with three-dimensional gathers if the nature of the next stool passed by the care recipient U11 is predicted to be watery stool belonging to either type 6 or type 7.

Now, the absorbent articles (outerwear and innerwear) suitable for the care recipient U11 have been determined through the information processing up to step S112. Subsequently, the determination unit 135 may perform processing to further determine other nursing care products that should be used in conjunction with the absorbent articles.

For example, the decision unit 135 determines whether the next stool excreted by the care recipient U11 will be solid stool based on the prediction result obtained in step S106 (step S113).

For example, if the determination unit 135 determines that the next stool will be solid (step S113; Yes), it may determine that baby wipes are another care product to be used in conjunction with the absorbent article determined so far (step S114a). Alternatively, the determination unit 135 may determine that no other care product is needed to be used in conjunction with the absorbent article.

On the other hand, if the determination unit 135 determines that the next stool will not be solid, i.e., will be watery (step S113; No), it may determine that other care products to be used in conjunction with the absorbent article determined so far are baby wipes, a baby cleanser, and a disposable bed sheet (step S114b). Compared to solid stool, watery stool requires more careful post-processing and also requires more effort in post-processing, so it is preferable to determine baby wipes and a baby cleanser in this way.

Next, the presentation unit 136 recommends the nursing care products (e.g., outerwear, innerwear, cleaning products, etc.) that have been determined so far to the requester (e.g., nursing staff) who made the recommendation request (step S115).

When the recommendation by the presentation unit 136 is completed, the information processing according to the embodiment ends.

6. Other embodiments
The information processing device 100 according to the above embodiment may be implemented in various different forms other than the above embodiment.

For example, the determination unit 135 may further use environmental information such as temperature, season, prevalent infectious diseases, etc. to determine a nonwoven fabric product with functions appropriate to the current environment as another care product to be used in conjunction with, for example, an absorbent article.

For example, in the winter when infectious diseases are more likely to spread, the determination unit 135 may determine disposable masks and disinfecting wipes as other nursing care products. On the other hand, in the summer when sweating is more likely, the determination unit 135 may determine body wipes as other nursing care products.

Furthermore, for example, the determination unit 135 may determine an absorbent article with high absorption capacity based on trends such as increased urination frequency, increased urine volume excreted per urination, and tendency toward diarrhea on cold days.

7. Hardware Configuration
The information processing apparatus 100 according to the above-described embodiment is realized by a computer 1000 having a configuration as shown in Fig. 12, for example. Fig. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration. The computer 1000 is connected to an output device 1010 and an input device 1020, and is connected to a calculation device 1030, a cache 1040, a memory 1050, an output IF (Interface) 1060, an input IF 1070, and a network IF 1080 via a bus 1090.

The arithmetic unit 1030 operates based on programs stored in the cache 1040 and memory 1050, or programs read from the input device 1020, and executes various processes. The cache 1040 is a cache, such as RAM, that temporarily stores data used by the arithmetic unit 1030 for various calculations. The memory 1050 is a storage device in which data used by the arithmetic unit 1030 for various calculations and various databases are registered, and is memory realized by a ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), flash memory, etc.

The output IF 1060 is an interface for transmitting information to be output to an output device 1010, such as a monitor or printer, which outputs various types of information, and may be implemented, for example, by a connector conforming to a standard such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), DVI (Digital Visual Interface), or HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface). On the other hand, the input IF 1070 is an interface for receiving information from various input devices 1020, such as a mouse, keyboard, scanner, etc., and may be implemented, for example, by USB.

For example, the input device 1020 may be implemented as a device that reads information from optical recording media such as a CD (Compact Disc), DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), or PD (Phase Change Rewritable Disk), a magneto-optical recording medium such as an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), a tape medium, a magnetic recording medium, or a semiconductor memory. The input device 1020 may also be implemented as an external storage medium such as a USB memory.

Network IF 1080 has the function of receiving data from other devices via network N and sending it to the arithmetic device 1030, and also transmitting data generated by the arithmetic device 1030 to other devices via network N.

Here, the arithmetic unit 1030 controls the output device 1010 and the input device 1020 via the output IF 1060 and the input IF 1070. For example, the arithmetic unit 1030 loads a program from the input device 1020 or memory 1050 onto the cache 1040 and executes the loaded program. For example, when the computer 1000 functions as the information processing device 100, the arithmetic unit 1030 of the computer 1000 realizes the functions of the control unit 130 by executing the program loaded onto the cache 1040.

[8. Other]
Furthermore, among the processes described in each of the above embodiments, all or part of the processes described as being performed automatically can be performed manually, or all or part of the processes described as being performed manually can be performed automatically using known methods. In addition, the information including the processing procedures, specific names, various data, and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be changed as desired unless otherwise specified. For example, the various information shown in each drawing is not limited to the information shown in the drawings.

Furthermore, the components of each device shown in the figure are functional concepts and do not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit depending on various loads, usage conditions, etc.

Furthermore, the above embodiments can be combined as appropriate to the extent that the processing content is not contradictory.

9. Conclusion
Although some of the embodiments of the present application have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, these are merely examples, and the present invention can be implemented in other forms that include the embodiments described in the Disclosure of the Invention section and that have undergone various modifications and improvements based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art.

Furthermore, the "section, module, unit" mentioned above can be read as "means" or "circuit." For example, an acquisition unit can be read as an acquisition means or an acquisition circuit.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Information processing system Sy Nursing care record system 30 Facility device 100 Information processing device 120 Memory unit 121 Determination condition database 122 Evaluation information database 123 Property information database 124 Nursing care record database 125 Decision logic database 126 Product information database 127 Event information database 130 Control unit 131 Reception unit 132 Acquisition unit 133 Detection unit 134 Prediction unit 135 Decision unit 136 Presentation unit 137 Storage unit

Claims (16)

an acquisition unit that acquires stool property information, which is information about the property of the stool of the care recipient, and evaluation information that evaluates how independent the care recipient is;
a prediction unit that predicts the nature of the stool that the care recipient is likely to excrete based on the property information; and
An information processing device characterized by having : prediction information indicating the properties of stool predicted by the prediction unit ; and a determination unit that determines nursing care products to be used in caring for the care recipient based on the evaluation information. The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the acquiring unit acquires, as the property information, property information indicative of the property of stool excreted by the care receiver, the property information being presented as a history. The information processing device described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the acquisition unit acquires, as the evaluation information, evaluation information that evaluates the care recipient's ability to perform independent excretion based on how well the care recipient meets the conditions for independent excretion, such as going to the toilet by himself and cleaning up after himself. The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the prediction unit predicts the nature of the stool to be excreted based on a pattern detected from the nature information, the pattern being related to the nature of the stool excreted by the care recipient. The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the prediction unit predicts the properties of the stool to be excreted by further using care information corresponding to the care recipient. The information processing device according to claim 5, characterized in that the prediction unit predicts the properties of the stool to be excreted using, as the care information, any of dietary information regarding the food and drink ingested by the care recipient , medication information regarding medication administered to the care recipient, exercise information regarding exercise performed by the care recipient, or the level of care required by the care recipient . The information processing device described in claim 1, characterized in that the determination unit determines, as the nursing care product, an absorbent article of a removable type that corresponds to the evaluation results evaluated for the care recipient, from among absorbent articles that have the function of being able to accommodate the stool characteristics predicted by the prediction unit. The information processing device described in claim 7, characterized in that the determination unit further determines other nursing care products to be used in conjunction with the absorbent article, which are nursing care products based on the characteristics predicted by the prediction unit and the evaluation results of the care recipient . the prediction unit predicts, based on a pattern relating to the properties of stool excreted by the care recipient at night, properties of the stool to be excreted at night as the properties of the stool to be excreted;
The information processing device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the determination unit further uses sleep information indicating a sleeping condition of the care recipient to determine, as the absorbent article, an absorbent article for nighttime use that is suited to the sleeping condition of the care recipient . the acquisition unit further acquires urination information indicating a urination status of the care recipient;
The information processing device according to any one of claims 7 to 9 , wherein the determination unit determines, as the absorbent article, an absorbent article having a function according to the urination situation. The information processing device according to claim 10, wherein the determination unit determines, when the property predicted by the prediction unit indicates solid stool, that the absorbent article is a urine pad having a function according to the urination situation. The information processing device according to claim 11 , wherein the determination unit determines a urine pad having a function according to the amount of urine, the tendency of time periods when urination occurs, or the frequency of urination as the urination situation. The nursing care product further includes a storage unit configured to store, in a predetermined storage means, event information indicating an event that has occurred as a result of the nursing care product being used by the care recipient.
The information processing device described in any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that when it is determined based on the event information that there is a care product among the care products that caused the trouble that occurred to the care recipient, the determination unit determines the care product to be used next time to care for the care recipient, excluding the care product that caused the trouble from the candidates . An information processing device described in any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the acquisition unit acquires the condition information and the evaluation information kept as the care record when a specified care record system for managing care records is introduced in the care facility accepting the care recipient . An information processing method executed by an information processing device,
an acquiring step of acquiring stool property information, which is information about the property of the stool of the care recipient, and evaluation information, which evaluates how independent the care recipient is;
a prediction step of predicting the nature of stool to be excreted based on the property information;
An information processing method characterized by including a determination step of determining nursing care products to be used in caring for the care recipient based on prediction information indicating the stool properties predicted in the prediction step and the evaluation information. an acquisition step of acquiring stool property information, which is information about the property of the stool of the care recipient, and evaluation information, which evaluates how independent the care recipient is;
a prediction step of predicting the nature of the stool to be excreted based on the property information;
An information processing program for causing an information processing device to execute a determination procedure for determining nursing care products to be used in caring for the care recipient based on prediction information indicating the characteristics of stool predicted in the prediction procedure and the evaluation information.