COMMON FEATURES OF NURSE CALL SYSTEMS

Wall Station

This contains the microphone and speaker for communication between the nurse and patient. It also contains the code blue button and is the receptacle for the pillow speaker. IV pumps or ventilators can be connected to the nurse call station via the wall station, allowing alerts at the nurse’s stations whenever the connected equipment goes into alarm. This notifies the nurse of any equipment alarms more quickly than otherwise possible.

Bed Cable

It allows the patient bed to be connected to the wall station. When the bed alarm is set, this allows the staff to know if a patient who shouldn’t exit the bed is attempting to exit. It can also allow a patient to call the nurse’s station via a button on the bed rail.

Desk Console

The desk console is like a telephone (and looks very similar to a telephone); it allows the unit secretary or nurse to answer calls from the patient or call into the patient’s room whenever necessary.

Code Blue

Code blue signifies a patient in need of immediate help. If a staff member presses the code blue button a group of alerts go off at the nurse’s station, as well as inside and outside of the room (and anywhere else where the nurse call system is set up to alert).

A functioning nurse call system is a lifeline between patient and medical staff. Visitors can use the nurse call system on the patient’s behalf, as well. Modern nurse call systems can have many different options and features for both patients and staff. It’s safe to say that things have come a long way from the 1800s when a patient would ring a bell to get a nurse’s attention.

WHEN ARE NURSE CALL SYSTEMS REQUIRED?

It’s safe to assume that the laws in the area of your medical center or senior citizen care facility require that a call button is within reach of patients at all times, because of its essential function to patients in case of emergencies. There is also legislation that varies geographically that can mandate required response time by medical staff. You should familiarize yourself or your staff with the relevant legislation in your area.