We all know how frustrating it is to see the red bar on your phone when it is low on power, no charger in sight. This feeling is amplified in a healthcare scenario when you have patients relying on you and no time to wait for your device to charge.
For medical professionals, nothing is more important than saving patients from fatal conditions or helping them achieve an improved quality of life. To do this every day, week, month, requires precision, superior performance, and the ability to work on the move. Mobile technology solutions are designed to facilitate these demanding requirements, however each technology platform performs differently and can affect workflows. By understanding the pros and cons of mobile devices and implementing the correct solution you can increase productivity, and reduce downtime and staff stress.
Some of these solutions include Workstations-on-Wheels (WoWs), Medical Grade Tablets, and Handheld Computers. With these devices, healthcare professionals can easily access and input patients’ data right by their bedside, without wasting time fetching files or risking hazardous mix-ups.
These devices all require power to work effectively, and this simple breakdown will help you choose the best resource for your environment.
The Freedom of WoWs
These are portable computing systems on a cart that are specifically designed for easy transportation and full functionality. They can be freely wheeled from room to room and many WoWs also have in-built cameras and speakers to facilitate telehealth services. WoWs can operate in all surroundings, thanks to their ability to be powered in three different ways.
Medical computers with hot-swap batteries are cordless and fully battery-powered. Their hot-swap batteries allow for dynamic battery change without the device powering down. Extra batteries are always kept charged and ready for use. The batteries power the computer and accessories including, keyboard and mouse.
Workstations-on-Wheels can also be powered by an external battery-powered system, a self-contained modular battery cell pack attached to the cart column and plugged into a wall socket to charge. These are great for easy onsite maintenance, upgrade, or renewal of end-of-life systems. An example is the Wamee DC PLUS System which can run for up to 28 hours with only a six-hour charge. It powers the computer and all its accessories and connected devices such as the keyboard, mouse, printers, and scanners.
Lastly, WoWs with integrated battery systems operate on in-built batteries, which provide extra functionality, including automatic height adjustment and height presets. These are charged in a wall socket and will last for one to two shifts before re-charging is required. Integrated batteries, such as the Humanscale Touchpoint T7, also power the keyboard, mouse, printers, and scanners.
Medical Grade Tablets – The Perfect Dose
These mobile devices are portable, lightweight and can also operate on a hot-swappable battery system, such as the Wamee 313YMD. When the external battery runs low, it can easily be swapped for a charged one while the unit is still working. These devices cover entire shifts without powering down or causing an interruption in patient care. Hospitals and other medical institutions can also avoid the loss of patient data or the additional stress of swapping devices during busy shifts.
The Future is in the Palm of your Handheld
Everyone knows how convenient it is to have dependable, small, and lightweight devices that can easily fit into their pockets. These mobile devices can help nurses save 2 to 6 hours per week, increasing their efficiency and job satisfaction. They are convenient, easy to use, and highly efficient.
An example is Zebra Technologies TC52/57, which features barcode scanning, video streaming, secure text messaging, mobile alarms, and alerts. You can charge it on a charging cradle or swap the Li-ion batteries and charge with a battery charger. Handheld computers are all-inclusive and do not need an external keyboard, mouse, or scanner.
Need help with the best mobile technology solutions for your establishment? HPA is an ICT Healthcare Solutions provider that specialises in helping hospitals improve their workflows and downtime through state-of-the-art mobile devices and technologies.
