A tracking solution with E-Ink display ensures the proper condition of hospital beds, facilitates the work of hospital staff and enables a smooth process flow.
AT A GLANCE
- server-based positioning of hospital beds
- relevant information on E-Ink display
PROBLEM DEFINITION
The management of hospital beds is a challenging task. Especially in large clinics, the localization and disposition of beds can get difficult. Furthermore, the working day in hospitals is oftentimes rather hectic. In such a busy environment, important tasks can easily be overlooked or forgotten. This can have serious consequences. For example, a bed that has not been cleaned at the prescribed time results in a significantly increased infection risk for patients. Also, being late to a patient appointment or missing it disturbs the process flow and causes costs.
SOLUTION
By implementing a tracking solution with E-Ink display, the position and important information concerning the hospital beds are accessible at all times.
The location of hospital beds can be determined reliably and is shown on a digital map. This enables fast retrieval and efficient disposition of beds.
In addition, an E-Ink display attached to the bed shows useful information like the set bed position and the next date for cleaning or maintenance. Especially for patients in risky conditions or such with infectious diseases, these details are vital. By cleaning the beds at the right time and frequency, health risks can be reduced and recontaminations can be prevented. Furthermore, the punctual and regular maintenance of beds minimizes serious damages to the bed and consequential downtime.
The E-Ink display can also be used to show patient related information like the time and place of the patient’s next appointment. The data will be updated when changes are made, even if they are at short notice. Thus, the nurse receives all the latest information at a glance and can take the patient to his next appointment on time.
TECHNICAL IMPLEMENTATION
The hospital beds are equipped with Bluetooth Low Energy beacons with E-Ink display. The infsoft Locator Nodes, which are installed throughout the building, receive the beacons’ signals and send them to the infsoft LocAware platform® where the location is determined. The position data can be accessed via a browser application or a mobile app.
The E-Ink display shows relevant information concerning the bed and the patient assigned to the bed and updates them when necessary. For this purpose, beacons are connected to the electronic system of the bed, receiving status information like the set position or height of the bed. Other relevant information is transmitted to the beacon with display via a link with the hospital information system.
