Wireless nurse call systems

Types of Wireless Nurse Call Systems

A wireless nurse call systems is a tool used in hospitals and other medical institutions to allow patients to reach staff when needed. It works by using radio signals instead of wires.

There are various kinds of wireless nurse call systems. It is important to know the different kinds available when making a purchase. Here are some of them:

• Digital Cordless Phones:

  These are long-distance intercoms. A base unit is sometimes installed at the nurse's station or at some other point where care staff can hear calls. The system has handsets that are distributed among the patients or members of staff. The handsets can be picked up to make or receive calls when needed. Digital cordless phones can use either DECT or digital spread spectrum technology.

• Smartphone Applications in Combination with a Wireless LAN:

  Some nurse call systems can link up with the facility's wireless LAN. They can make use of smartphones or tablets as handsets. Thus, the generation of 'bring your own device (BYOD)' system is created. The system works by having a wireless LAN that connects to a VoIP server. The VoIP server provides the necessary telephony licenses. Sometimes, the server may be in the cloud. The WLAN must support voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi). For best performance, it should comply with the Wi-Fi 6 standard.

• VoIP-based Intercoms:

  Another type of wireless nurse calling system is the VoIP-based intercom. It is built on a Voice over IP (VoIP) telephony system. It often provides features that are similar to what is found in a telephony system, nurse call system, or intercom. The telephony system might be based on either a premises-based or hosted PBX service. The intercom has a touch screen that works like a telephone. With the intercom, calls can be made directly from the patient room to the nurse's station.

• Wireless Push Buttons:

  These buttons are built for durability and feature a special membrane that is waterproof. This ensures that buttons are not damaged in case there is exposure to certain liquids. The nurse call buttons are also easy to clean and disinfect. They have an IP65 protection class. Some of their important features include explosion proof, glow in the dark, and emergency call functions.

• Area Call Cordless Phones

  Here, one telephone is fitted with a number of calling cords. Each calling cord has a button that when pressed illuminates a light on the handset. There may be different lights for different buttons. Area-call cordless phones are ideal for when a lot of people are on one cordless hand set. This makes it possible for all users to answer the same telephone.

Function and Feature of Wireless Nurse Call System

• Call Buttons: These are nurse call system pendants strategically placed throughout a facility. They are designed to be easily accessible for patients or residents to alert the staff when assistance is needed.
• Wearable Devices: Some modern systems have call buttons integrated into wearable devices like wristbands or pendants. This allows patients to call for help whenever they need it.
• Handset or intercom: Staff can communicate directly with the patient through handsets or intercom units. This allows for two-way communication to assess the situation and respond appropriately.
• Mobile App or Softphone: Many wireless systems now have mobile apps or softphones that function over Wi-Fi. Healthcare staff may receive alerts and make or receive calls using their mobile phones or computers.
• Central Monitor or Dashboard: A visual display that shows active alerts, call locations, and staff response status is a central monitor or dashboard. This aids in tracking alerts and optimizing response times.
• Alert Tones and Text Notifications: The system uses unique alert tones to notify staff of calls from specific locations. Some systems also provide text messages or push notifications for alert staff mobility.
• Staff Allocation and Response Coordination: The system supports efficient staff allocation and response coordination to ensure timely assistance and proper incident management.
• Integration with Other Systems: Wireless nurse call systems can integrate with electronic health records (EHR) systems, alarm management systems, access control systems, emergency response systems, telephony systems, and voice communication systems to enhance healthcare operations and patient safety.
• Durability and Range: Designed to withstand the rigors of a healthcare environment. They have a long battery life and a wide communication range to ensure reliable operation throughout the facility.

Usage scenarios of wireless nurse call systems

Wireless nurse call system has numerous uses beyond medical care. This system can be used in:

• Restaurants

  The call system can be integrated into the restaurant to help staff respond quickly to customer requests and enhance service delivery. Customers can use wireless buttons to alert staff in case of any assistance needed.

• Manufacturing industry

  The call system can be used in a noisy manufacturing environment. A simple push button can alert a team member for assistance to enhance safety in the workplace. This can help enhance quick response and communication in case of machines breakdown or any emergencies.

• Care facilities

  Wireless nurse call systems are widely used in care facilities such as assisted living facilities, retirement homes, and rehabilitation centers. Patients can use simple push call buttons to alert staff for assistance. The system provides peace of mind for both caregivers and residents.

• Security companies

  In a security company, the wireless call system can be used for emergency response. This can include panic buttons and emergency call stations that can be deployed in various locations. The response centers can receive alerts and can dispatch a response team in case of any incidents.

• Educational institutions

  The wireless call system is ideal for use in schools, colleges, and universities. This versatile system can enhance communication in various facilities such as dormitories, classrooms, libraries, and cafeterias. Students or staff can simply push the button to alert staff in case of emergencies, health issues, or security situations.

• Hospitality industry

  Hotels, spas, and resorts can use a wireless nurse call system to improve guest services. A simple wireless call button can be placed in the guest rooms, reception areas, and facilities. Guests can use it to request housekeeping, room service, or any other assistance needed.

How to Choose Wireless Nurse Call Systems

Purchasers of nurse call systems need to ensure that residents can use them. It is important to choose a system that is easy to use and understand. Residents may be under physical or mental stress when using the system. Thus, complicated hardware or software can make the process frustrating. On the other hand, a simple system will need less time and effort if there is an emergency. Residents will be able to alert the staff quickly. Systems with intuitive operation, clear instructions, and obvious icons are the most ideal. They provide a great user experience even in stressful situations.

Wireless nurse call systems are susceptible to network issues. Thus, buyers need to choose systems that can work with high signal strength. When installed within range, residents can activate alerts without interference. The system can work effectively for communication between staff and residents. To enhance the quality of the system, buyers should test it first before purchase. They can perform a site test to see if the system can deliver emergency calls within the facility's layout.

The other thing to consider is integration with existing infrastructure. Buyers need to consider whether the system can work with existing devices. For instance, existing mobile phones or paging devices. Choosing a system that can seamlessly integrate with existing equipment is cost-effective. It spares the buyer from purchasing additional hardware and can still work efficiently.

Maintenance of the system is very crucial for patient safety and quality care. Buyers need to consider the maintenance requirements of various systems. Choosing systems that have simple maintenance can save time and resources. They can quickly perform routine inspections, software upgrades, and battery replacements. Buyers can also purchase nurse call systems that have professional maintenance service. Suppliers can offer regular checkups to ensure the system is operating optimally. Also, updates to the software can be done by the supplier. The second option gives buyers peace of mind since they don’t have to spend time on the technical stuff.

Q and A

Q: What is a nurse call system?

A: A nurse call system is a communication system that allows patients to alert nurses or caregivers when they need assistance. It's an essential tool in healthcare facilities like hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes.

Q: How does a wireless nurse call system work?

A: In a wireless nurse call system, each patient room is equipped with a wireless button or device that the patient can press to call for help. The signals are transmitted wirelessly to a central monitoring station or handheld devices carried by the staff. This allows quick response to patient's requests.

Q: What are the advantages of a wireless system compared to a wired one?

A: Wireless systems offer greater flexibility in installation and can easily be modified or expanded. They also provide real-time location tracking of staff members, ensuring quick response times. Wireless systems are easier to install and maintain because they don't require extensive cabling.

Q: Can a wireless nurse call system be integrated with other healthcare technologies?

A: Yes, wireless nurse call systems can be integrated with various other healthcare technologies, such as electronic health records (EHR), patient monitoring devices, and staff scheduling systems. Integration allows seamless communication between different systems, improving patient care and operational efficiency.