Determining the Physiological Cost of a Military Serviceman's Activity in the Field Using Innovative Miniature Devices and Advance ECG Analysis: Different Scenarios of Use

In the context of military operations in developed countries, the assessment of combat readiness among defense personnel holds significant importance. This evaluation serves the dual purpose of optimizing combat potential while minimizing personnel casualties. This study aims to estimate the physiological cost incurred by soldiers’ duties in the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU), utilizing miniature ECG systems. Our research employed ultra-miniature ECG devices designed for prolonged on-body use, referred to as wearable “on-body” ECG patches, along with miniature ECG devices equipped with finger electrodes, across various combat scenarios. Data analysis was conducted through a comprehensive approach to ECG analysis, encompassing four key aspects: heart rate variability (HRV), amplitude and time ECG parameters, heart arrhythmia, psychological and mental state assessment. Within this study, we devised a complex functional state index based on established metrics and original parameters of heart rhythm variability, ECG waveforms and intervals. Additionally, we developed a psychoemotional state index using a modified McCraty algorithm (USA) for heart rhythm variability analysis. Our monitoring system exhibited a noteworthy sensitivity to detect changes in the functional state under different field conditions and permanent deployment settings. These methods and tools offer valuable support for commanders in their decision-making process, enabling them to assess personnel readiness to execute combat tasks based on their functional state.