According to the company website, "the Vocera® communications system is a breakthrough wireless platform that provides hands-free, instant, voice communication throughout a networked building or campus." (Vocera, 2009). The Vocera communications system consists of two key components: 1. Vocera system software which controls and manages call activity; and 2. The mobile, lightweight Vocera B2000 communications badge which allow users to converse over a wireless LAN.
Phoenix Children's Hospital - Staff Experience with Vocera (youtube video)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lbN5lLEeVNA
The Vocera device communicates through WLAN. With the push of a button and a spoken command (for example, "Call Dr. Smith"), Dr. Smith's personal Vocera will audibly ring and visually display incoming caller information. At this point, the call can be answered and immediate hands free person-to-person communication can commence. Additional software also allows users to make and receive telephone calls. Missed and received calls are stored in sequence and accessible through a small scrollable LCD screen. With additional software the Vocera device can communicate with patient monitors and nurse call systems, providing users with real-time clinical information while away from the patient bedside.
Link to Vocera Badge Data Sheet
http://www.vocera.com/downloads/Hardware_ds.pdf
A Toronto hospital recently implemented the Vocera system in an effort to promote staff safety. A panic feature connected directly to protection services has reduced response time during a Code White (violent person) by 50%.
Although this device clearly has its benefits, do you see any possible challenges implementing or using such a device in your workplace?
Press play to view a video of the Vocera communications device.
2 comments:
Hi Sean and Jane
Excellent presentation! I love the blog idea.
We have implemented Vocera in several of our residential sites. We find it is very beneficial as we don't have the overhead speaker, which can be very distressful to residents with cognitive impairment. It really improves the security measures, both for personal safety and physical safety (i.e., when needing assistance to transfer a resident). Staff use the pendent form and are quite used to it. We have residents who have very limited mobility but are cognitively intact. They have the Vocera number of the care aide and the nurse on the unit when they require assistance. One issue that has arisen is that there are still some 'dead spot' in the facility and there is not much they can do about it. Staff are aware of where these areas are (one is a bathing area) and so will use the call system. The call bell as also wired to the Vocera system for the care staff responsible on that unit.
It has been a huge improvement to the environment and one that staff has accepted quite readily.
My thoughts for this evening,
Mona
Hi Mona,
Thanks for your comments. The issue of "dead areas" is of particular significance, especially for those interested in using Vocera as an emergency communications device. When I first saw Vocera in action I immediately saw its potential benefit as a way of calling a Code Blue. Currently, staff in the inpatient wards must either pick up a phone or send someone to the nursing station to activate a code blue; in either situation a care provider can be pulled from the bedside. In the majority of clinical areas there isn't a bedside code activator. The advantage of Vocera is that it goes wherever you go, and if you are taking a patient with you, you always have access to the system. Almost always. I figured if it can reduce response times to code whites by half, then it could certainly do the same for code blue. Given the importance of accessing expert care as fast as possible, Vocera seemed the best solution possible (fast recognition and treatment of arrests in chidren improves survival rates from 10% to 85%). However, such a system must be foolproof. Unfortunately, like other wireless systems it can be affected by microwaves and distance to access points, especially elevators. Although it may still be beneficial in the code blue situation, it will not replace hard-wired systems currently in place.
Sean
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