“A new study in The Journal of Nursing Administration shows there are significant benefits for nurses and patients when continuous vigilance monitoring is used on medical-surgical unit beds. “The outcomes were definitive,” stated Dr. Patrick Sullivan, President and CEO of Hoana Medical, Inc. “Using continuous monitoring provides an early alert to RNs about potential patient deterioration so they can respond appropriately. It’s good for nurses and patients.”
In most hospitals, where there is a shortage of RNs, patients undergo intermittent monitoring with periodic vital signs and observations taken about every four hours. However, if a change is not detected in a timely manner it can have serious consequences. In fact, respiratory rate change is the number one predictor of a patient being at risk for cardio-respiratory complications. That is why hospitals are looking to new technologies to expand their care capabilities.”
Article
RedOrbit, 31 March 2009
