What are biomedical engineers doing to help the coronavirus crisis?

When a pandemic arises, certain roles have to put their workload into overdrive to cope with the situation, but also find solutions to additional issues. The nation pulls together in a heroic effort to try and comfort one another and help others through difficult times.

One area which is in high demand is biomedical engineering. Throughout the year, biomedical engineers create ways to combine biological functions with technology to make human life more comfortable, but now, they’re needed more than ever to help save lives.

Creating devices that can help with the coronavirus outbreak is how biomedical engineers are making a difference. From students to well-seasoned engineers, everyone in the field is attempting to relieve stress on health organisations across the globe. Here are just some of the types of creations biomedical engineers have created.

Ventilators

As coronavirus is a respiratory disease, breathing capabilities are dramatically affected once they have contracted the disease. The struggle many hospitals are facing is the lack of ventilators, which is why biomedical engineers are creating new and affordable options.

Virgin Orbit, backed by Richard Branson, are creating a device that can be used by those with mild respiratory symptoms, saving the high-tech ventilators for the most vulnerable but making sure help is given to those who might need it.

The incredible work of biomedical engineers is already saving lives. If you’re interested in hearing more about Virgin Orbit’s efforts, click here.

Testing

One of the biggest topics of current conversations is testing. There are increasing demands for tests to be produced which are not only accurate but also affordable and readily available. As many scientists have said, testing is vital to understanding and overcoming the virus.

Biomedical engineers across the globe are creating new ways to test those affected and the antibodies of those who have recovered from the disease. Although there is some debate around the effectiveness of these tests, the efforts to continue creating options has been staggering. One group of researchers have created a paper test which can give a result in around 40 minutes, take a look for yourself here.

Of course, other biomedical engineers are using their 3D printing facilities to create different pieces of equipment for healthcare professionals such as face masks. The demand for help is high, but fortunately, they are supplying nations with the equipment needed.

Have you had any ideas of what biomedical engineers can create? Perhaps you think this type of problem-solving career suits your interests. If you choose to study at the University of Bolton, you could use our amazing facilities to help bring your ideas to fruition. Find out more about our courses here.