Royal Philips Electronics launched Monday a compact, wearable vital signs monitor for patients who can walk around or are being transported. The smartphone-sized IntelliVue MX40 can be worn around the neck in a plastic pouch and gives ECG, SpO2 and non-invasive blood pressure readings.

The Dutch conglomerate said the waterproof device, which features a touch screen, lets providers monitor patients anywhere in the hospital and includes variable alarm settings. It also displays patient demographic information, includes a "sleep" mode to conserve power, and runs on either disposable or rechargeable batteries.

"The MX40 is helpful in streamlining patient monitoring at the bedside. The mobile monitoring function helps us ensure patient safety during transfers and while infusing medication drips," Alycia Kielty, a nurse in the surgical cardiovascular unit with Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls, S.D., said in a statement.

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