If you or a loved one has spent time in a nursing home or hospital, you’re already familiar with nurse call systems. They make it possible for a resident or patient to summon their nurse, and it’s usually done by pressing a button that sends a signal to the nurse’s station. Modern systems provide pillow speakers to allow residents or patients to communicate and use call buttons and pull cords to summon the nurse.
Continue reading to learn more about what nurse call systems are and how Koorsen Fire & Security can help implement state-of-the-art solutions that keep up with current trends.
How Do Wireless and Hardwired Nurse Call Systems Differ?
A hardwired system uses the nursing home or hospital’s existing wiring to install a device near the resident or patient’s bed. In a hardwired system, another device is usually installed in the bathroom to ensure the resident or patient is within easy reach of a nurse call button or pull cord. These systems usually cost less to install since the required infrastructure is already in place.
A wireless system uses a cell phone or another handheld device to call the nurse. A wireless nurse call is more convenient, allowing residents and patients to keep the device with them at all times.
Common Features of a Nurse Call System
There are nurse call devices to fit every budget and need, with high-end systems offering a broader range of features than just the standard components. In choosing your system, look for the following common features.
Pillow Speaker
The pillow speaker uses call lights and provides a way for residents and patients to control the television. Additionally, immobile residents or patients can signal the nurse by inhaling or exhaling in systems equipped with breath analyzers.
Wall Station
In addition to connecting the pillow speaker to the alert system, the wall station offers connections for IV set-up, ventilators, and other equipment. It also features a separate microphone and speaker for the patient’s use.
Bed Cable
This cable connects the wall station to the bed. It can also let nurses know if a resident or patient is attempting to leave the bed. This may be necessary if the individual gets restricted to bed rest or is otherwise unable to leave the bed without help. The cable connects to a nurse call button on the bed rail.
Code Blue
Each of these devices is usually equipped with a code blue button. A code blue alerts nursing home or hospital staff to a need for immediate help. It sends a signal to the nurse’s station and to other stations that receive nurse call signals.
Benefits of Nurse Call Systems
Today, it’s extremely rare to find nursing homes and hospitals that don’t use nurse call systems. Utilizing a system with multiple nurse call options will help you provide better care for your residents and patients.
A nurse call device provides convenience for residents and patients when they need a nurse’s help or assistance. The system also ensures that patients can get help immediately if they experience a sudden medical condition, fall out of bed, or suffer another type of accident.
Keep Your Nursing Home Residents and Hospital Patients Connected
Over time, it’s important to evaluate the performance of your nurse call system. You should also stay informed about advances in this type of technology. Upgrading to a system that performs better can help you increase the quality of care your facility provides to its residents and patients. If you want to learn more do not hesitate to contact a Koorsen nurse call system professional by utilizing our contact us page.
