US Patent 8727981 Ambient sensing of patient discomfort

Methods, computer systems, and computer-readable storage media for monitoring and managing patient discomfort are provided. Inputs are received from ambient sensors located in a clinical care room. Based on a determination that the inputs exceed predetermined thresholds, it is determined that the patient is experiencing discomfort. Various measures are automatically initiated to help diminish the patient's discomfort. The measures include aromatherapy, visual relaxation therapy, audio therapy, and automatic administration of pain relief.