Karl Bremer Hospital uses technology to connect patients with loved ones

Hospital visitations are not allowed at present to limit the risk of possible COVID-19 transmission. However, understanding the importance of connecting patients with their loved ones, Karl Bremer Hospital has decided to use technology to bring relief to patients who are hospitalised.

The hospital has rolled out the use of tablets to allow patients to connect with their loved ones through video calls.

Denise Barnes, the assistant nursing manager at Karl Bremer Hospital, explains why they have decided to use tablets.

“Mobile telephones are being utilised in our wards, however, the challenge arises when the patient is in the back of the unit as the distance is too far from the nurses station to establish signal. The tablet has given the patient the opportunity to speak to and see their loved ones without any obstacles and, by doing so, there has been an optimistic response from both sides.”

Sr Barnes says that technology has greatly improved the way the hospital team communicates, especially during the pandemic.

“When taking into account the visiting policy under the current regulations, not only does it protect the patient, but their loved ones too. The use of tablets within our wards has ensured continuous communication between the patient and their family at home, as being away from home and unable to see your loved ones tends to have a toll on the overall recovery of a patient, which ultimately leads to a negative bed flow within our busy units.”

The nursing manager and her team hopes the tiny gesture will alleviate anxiety and uncertainty for patients and their loved ones who cannot see each other while being hospitalised.

Nurse Barnes says the use of tablets has given patients and staff a sense of hope as they continue to fight COVID-19. “It has definitely been a rewarding feeling to see how thankful our patients and their relatives are, and we remain hopeful that the circumstances we are living in will change in the nearby future.”

While hospital visits remain restricted, Western Cape Government Health urges the public to continue protecting themselves against the virus. Remember to wear your mask, wash your hands regularly, keep a distance of 1.5 m from others and stay home when you’re sick.