Embracing Technology to Enhance ICU Connectivity

The pandemic has not only driven demand for healthcare workers, but also caused burnout  among healthcare professionals. Medical crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, are inherently stressful and often involve uncertainty, unpredictability and increased work intensity. Staffing strains have affected hospitals and health systems during the COVID-19 pandemic. A recent study found that there will be a critical shortage of 3.2 million healthcare workers by 2026. 

How can hospitals and health systems manage staffing shortage to meet the increased demands of patients? In addition, how can hospitals and healthcare systems provide current healthcare staff with the adequate tools to provide patients with a positive experience? 

The adoption of new technology can provide healthcare professionals with additional tools to alleviate the common challenges of staffing shortages and continue to provide patients with unparalleled quality. A virtual or remote intensive care unit (ICU) cart leverages state-of-the-art technology to connect experienced and knowledgeable clinicians with on-the-ground healthcare providers. MSNBC highlighted how one Texas hospital has embraced a virtual ICU unit to handle the increased volume.

The virtual healthcare provider, typically an ICU nurse or physician, is an expert clinician familiar with traditional clinical initiatives that need to occur to optimize outcomes for patients. The on-the-ground providers, most commonly a registered nurse, can connect with the virtual providers for immediate and attentive direction. The virtual healthcare provider and on-the-ground providers collaborate over a secure, wireless video connection to ensure the best possible patient outcomes.

A virtual ICU cart provides 24-hour, real-time support for on-the-ground healthcare providers. It enables nurses and nurse practitioners to rely on trusted ICU nurses and doctors anywhere. It also allows hospitals and health systems to enable immediate care responses for patients. The goal of the on-the-ground team and virtual healthcare providers is to help patients stabilize and get out of the ICU as soon as possible. In the instance where hospitals and health systems are running low on ICU beds, virtual ICU carts can be relocated. Hospitals are able to bring critical care to the patients. 

AV Planners has created a customizable, all-in-one healthcare ICU cart solution that combines cutting-edge technology from our preferred manufacturer partners. Depending on the specific application and the environment, AV Planners may recommend a high-quality camera, video display and video networking solution. As the use of new technology and mobile healthcare carts continues to grow, a new dimension for critical care nursing practice is emerging to create dramatic implications for the future of healthcare.

If you’re looking for support to enhance the patient experience through technology, AV Planners has proven success in designing and integrating healthcare spaces. Contact AV Planners to learn more about our services. Keep up with the latest news from AV Planners on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram.