New device captures patients’ vital signs to improve patient safety

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The Neuro-Stroke Unit has implemented a new eCare project— Cerner's CareAware VitalsLink –—a process which automatically uploads patient vital signs data in the electronic medical record (EMR). Learn more about eCare.

Documenting patient vital signs is one of the most frequent responsibilities undertaken by frontline nurses. Traditionally, once vitals are collected they are manually entered into the patient's EMR. VitalsLink is a point-of-care solution that eliminates manual documentation and reduces the potential for error when capturing patient information.

Using VitalsLink also ensures the most up-to-date data is always accessible to the care team, which improves treatment decisions and the monitoring of patients who at risk for developing certain medical conditions.

Here's how VitalsLink works:

  • Nurse scans ID badge
  • Nurse scans barcode on patient's wristband
  • VItal signs are taken
  • Data verified and signed into the EMR

“We provided one-on-one training with nurses on the unit to make sure they could confidently go through each of the steps involved with using VitalsLink,” says Michelle Au, Clinical Nurse Educator, Neuro-Stroke Unit. “Nurses are also able to chart additional assessments using VitalsLink and best of all, they don't have to continuously keep track of loose paper that they've handwritten patient vital signs on.”

“The documentation of patient vital signs is a critical part of nursing and by making this process more efficient and accurate there is more quality time at the bedside with patients,” says Elizabeth Villar-Guerrero, Neuro-Stroke Unit Clinical Team Manager. “The value of this eCare project is that it enhances patient safety and the care we provide.” 

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