When it comes to medical device connectivity and workflow automation, who would have thought this trend would impact cart vendors? Faced with the inevitable integration of computers on wheels (COWs) and vital signs monitors, Stinger was the first company to embrace that change by acquiring Washington-based Integriti Systems. Integriti developed a vital signs monitor that collects SpO2, temp and NIBP, that could be mounted on a variety of COWs.  The benefit of the integrated solution is that nurses and patient care techs don't have to manhandle two wheeled devices, a COW for data entry and a pole mounted vital signs monitor for periodic vital signs collection.

In February 2005, Stinger changed their name to Stinger Medical.  Now they've replaced founder and CEO Gary Coonan (who will remain Chair) with Philip D. Suiter.  Suiter is an interesting choice; his strong health care and HIT background is telling as to future company strategy. 

Where all this leaves traditional COW and vital sign monitor vendors remains to be seen.