Holy Name Press Releases

First Real-Time Patient Monitoring in NY/NJ Area

>Wireless technology Available Only at Holy Name Medical Center

June 17, 2016

Holy Name Medical Center is the first hospital in the NY/NJ metropolitan area to use digital monitoring technology to continuously track patients' vital signs. The ViSi® Mobile device, about the size of a business card, is worn on the wrist and transmits patient information to clinicians on an ongoing basis. It is the first body-worn monitor able to non-invasively measure all core vital signs including blood pressure, heart or pulse rate, electrocardiogram or heart rhythm, blood oxygenation, respiration rate and skin temperature. The system will enhance patient safety by enabling early detection of patient deterioration and help ensure a successful response to rescue situations.

"We are always looking for ways to improve the patient experience," said Sheryl Slonim, DNP, RN-BC, NEA-BC, APN-C, Executive Vice President, Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer. "The monitoring system runs on the hospital's wireless network, and any abnormal changes in patients' vital signs are sent to their primary nurses so they can receive immediate attention which will help prevent adverse outcomes."

Typically, nurses check patient vital signs during routine rounds that occur every 6-8 hours. The intermittent checks can disturb patients, while only providing snapshots of vital sign data rather than continuous information. With the ViSi system, if a patient's vital signs move beyond selected ranges the system's alarm system will warn clinicians, so the appropriate intervention can be taken.

In addition to supporting safety, the system also aligns with Holy Name's ongoing efforts to improve the overall healing experience. The lightweight device promotes mobility – patients are able to get out of bed, walk around, shower and undergo physical therapy – all while remaining connected to clinicians.

"The number one benefit is improved patient safety," says Michael Maron, President and CEO. "While real-time patient monitoring is a trend that is just beginning to take hold in leading medical institutions throughout the nation, Holy Name has been testing this technology for years in conjunction with the Telemedicine and Advanced Technology Research Center of the US Department of Defense. Integrating the ViSi Mobile Technology System into our patient care model supports the hospital's long-standing commitment to delivering the highest standard of patient care and patient safety."