Dedham, Mass., health center ends use of alarms

There have been fewer falls and the number of falls that result in injury has remained stable.

By Healthcare Facilities Today


The long term care health center at NewBridge on the Charles is ending the use of most alarms on resident beds and wheelchairs. The facility, run by Hebrew Senior Life, is also adding two more wings, specializing in Alzheimer's care, according to an article on The Patriot Ledger website

The alarms have been removed from the beds and wheelchairs on most of the other floors or households without any adverse outcomes, the article said.

There have been fewer falls and the number of falls that result in injury has remained stable. Residents have reported they are less bothered by the noise of alarms constantly going off.

"Hebrew Senior Life is on the cutting edge of a concept much like the removal of passive restraints that took place several years ago," Anne Thomas, executive director of the health center, said in the article.

Studies show that more than 70 percent of residents in a long term care setting have some type of dementia, Thomas said.

"To respond to this trend, we have designated two households as memory support households, with staff specially chosen and trained."

Read the article.

 

 

 



February 6, 2014


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

Parking: Where the Outpatient Land Crunch Shows First

Healthcare systems that treat parking as a strategic design variable from the first feasibility pass will have more sites to choose from.


Clear Behavioral Health Opens New Outpatient Mental Health Center in Anaheim Hills

It offers an intensive outpatient program (IOP) for adults and teens ages 13 to 17 across east Anaheim and the surrounding communities.


Bon Secours Begins Construction on Freestanding Emergency Department in Norfolk

It is expected to open in late 2027.


The OR HVAC Puzzle: Why Individual Systems Are on the Rise

Extra penetrations, tight clearances and strict humidity needs—design experts explain what it really takes to plan dedicated units for each operating room.


Skanska Completes Renovation of Specialized Care Facility for Sutter Health

The project was delivered through a highly coordinated effort, utilizing advanced construction methodologies to maintain efficiency.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.