Easily retro-fit wireless 'bed exit alert' to a Codemlon™ nurse call system

With a high level of inpatient falls continuing to challenge the NHS, we have introduced bed exit alert to our Lnx™ wireless connectivity system, helping to make staff aware of a patient leaving their bed within the shortest possible time.

Lnx Bed Exit Alert is a self-contained solution that can be easily retro-fitted to a nurse call system in a matter of minutes. The existing patient hand unit is simply replaced with its Lnx™ equivalent and paired to a pressure mat placed on the floor alongside the patient bed.

With no need for additional infrastructure or re-programming, the pressure mat forms an integral part of the nurse call system, adopting the characteristics of other patient-to-staff alarms, including follow-the-light operation and alerts at the nurse station and smart devices.

The equipment is portable so can be easily relocated to an alternative bed area as occupancy changes – eliminating the need to purchase a device for every bed.

“We’re very conscious of the financial impact that falls can have on a Trust, both in terms of extended length of stay and additional care costs on discharge. And even if a fall does not cause physical injury it can cause anxiety and distress for the patient and their family, explains Static Systems’ marketing manager, Jennie Terry.

Terry adds: “With the majority of UK hospitals already using our patient-to-nurse communication systems we wanted to develop a bed exert alert product that uses the existing nurse call infrastructure and operates in a manner already familiar to staff. Having taken this approach we are able to provide a cost-effective solution for Trusts which is more reliable than a standalone alternative and brings greater peace of mind to patients.”

Another benefit of integrating bed exit alert with the nurse call system is that bedhead, room and en-suite lighting can be automatically switched on at a specified level as the patient steps onto the mat, avoiding the patient having to move around in the dark.

The Lnx™ system also supports remote nurse call fobs, special needs call units and bedroom door alarm, as well as providing a convenient connection point for third-party systems, such as enuresis alarm and infusion pump alert - all helping to better manage the patient environment and improve well-being.