Healthcare IT professionals are increasingly recognizing the vital role that technology plays in enhancing patient outcomes, improving provider engagement, and maintaining an efficient technical infrastructure. The challenge lies in effectively integrating new technology amidst a steep learning curve. With the right focus and tools, both healthcare providers and IT teams can streamline workflows and achieve better results.
Addressing Common Challenges
Mobile workstations are a significant asset for healthcare teams; however, they often come with notable issues. Common complaints from IT and help desk teams include missing workstations, depleted batteries, and equipment needing repair. These challenges lead to lost workstations and technology downtime, consuming valuable staff time.
Fleet management technology offers a solution to these problems. By enabling IT teams to locate mobile workstations down to the room level, these systems provide crucial visibility. High-quality workstations equipped with self-reporting functions and a simple ‘Report Issue’ touch display allow users to easily flag problems, promoting timely resolutions.
Turnkey workstations that integrate fleet management software require minimal IT resources for setup and management. Essential features include swappable batteries, actionable insights, and robust data governance. Healthcare organizations should prioritize technology solutions that enhance workflow by focusing on several key areas:
– **Downtime prevention:** Reporting and usage data can indicate potential workstation breakdowns before they occur.
– **Security and convenience:** Eliminating multi-factor authentication for a more secure badge authentication process saves time for healthcare staff.
– **Right-sizing asset distribution:** Usage reports inform optimized distribution, usage, and procurement of assets.
Moreover, fleet management software should seamlessly integrate with existing platforms and applications, simplifying operations. An ideal mobile workstation partner will enhance workflows, enabling caregivers and IT professionals to dedicate more time to patient care.
Enhancing Provider Safety and Comfort
With a projected increase in staffing shortages over the next decade, healthcare providers are already facing overwhelming workloads. Burnout among healthcare professionals is a pressing concern, making it critical to address the issue from multiple angles, including technology use.
Mobile workstations may seem minor, yet they are crucial in ensuring provider safety and comfort. Many healthcare providers spend over 30% of their day on Electronic Health Records (EHRs) and other administrative tasks, which can lead to fatigue and musculoskeletal injuries. Ergonomic adjustments in monitor mounts, keyboards, and work surfaces are essential for allowing healthcare staff to interact comfortably with both technology and patients.
Workstations that can be easily adjusted for varying heights help to alleviate physical strain. Additionally, arranging accessories to minimize unnecessary bending or reaching can further protect against injuries. Providing flexible and comfortable workstations enables providers to focus on what matters—patient care.
With line-of-sight policies in place at hospitals, it is essential for staff to maintain visual contact with patients while using workstations. Therefore, healthcare leadership should prioritize ergonomic mobile workstation designs to reduce caregiver fatigue and injuries while facilitating seamless interactions between providers and patients.
Technology also enhances patient experiences and outcomes. Regardless of the type of healthcare facility, innovative technology plays a crucial role in operations. Solutions that allow healthcare professionals to work directly at a patient’s bedside significantly enhance care quality. However, it is equally important to mitigate the stress associated with technology in these settings.
Considerations such as low-light work surfaces, dimmable displays, and minimizing alarms can greatly improve the patient experience. Designing “smart” rooms where only essential technology is visible contributes to a calming atmosphere, benefiting both patients and caregivers. Streamlining technology solutions to ensure security and convenience while optimizing asset distribution can lead to enhanced workflows and improved experiences for both providers and patients.
Collaboration between frontline workers and IT support is vital for success in healthcare technology. By focusing on these aspects, healthcare organizations can build a more efficient, supportive environment for both staff and patients.
About the Authors: Jessica Grenwis serves as the Senior Director of Product Management at Ergotron, while Arlow Farrell holds the position of Director of Software Engineering at the same organization. Ergotron is recognized for its innovative ergonomic solutions that enhance healthcare workflows and support professionals in delivering quality care.