RespÉire - Collaboration with Technology and Transformation and DkIT

Technology and Transformation recently partnered with Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) to support nursing student Max Crinion Morgan and his innovation, RespÉire.

During his studies at DkIT, Max identified a gap in routine patient observations. “As nurses, we are drilled that observations are key,” he explains. “We have devices for blood pressure, temperature and oxygen saturation. What I found on general wards was that there was nothing for respiration rate.”

RespÉire addresses this gap by automatically measuring respiration rate, bringing it in line with other vital signs that already have digital monitoring tools. Instead of manual counting, the device makes respiratory monitoring faster and more consistent.

The collaboration was facilitated through DkIT’s Incubation and Regional Development Centre and the Connected Health and Wellbeing Cluster. Managers Garrett Duffy and Brenndán Casey supported Max and connected him with external expertise.

Through this network, Max met Dara Keeley, Project Manager in Technology and Transformation. With a background in medical engineering, Dara provided valuable insight into device development and regulation. He worked with Max to explore what is required to move a medical device from concept to reality, including prototyping, compliance and navigating the digital health landscape. This guidance helped Max validate his idea and better understand the path forward.

The project highlights the value of partnership-driven innovation. When education, healthcare and technology work together, ideas develop faster and with greater purpose.

RespÉire is still in development, but the journey already demonstrates what is possible when collaboration drives innovation. Technology and Transformation is proud to support emerging talent and help turn frontline insights into solutions that can improve patient care.

Watch the interview