The System

A radio nurse call system typically consists of a main panel receiver with a mains-operated liquid crystal display (LCD), alarm readout and several mimic panels depending on the coverage required. These panels have internal aerials which eliminate the need for wiring to an external aerial. Battery-operated transmitter units communicate back to the main receiver via radio, whereby the location and the nature of the call is displayed, along with an audible tone to distinguish between standard assistance and emergency calls.

• for making calls
• pull cords
• pear push leads
• pendant/wrist transmitters
• air switches – this hand (or foot) operated, waterproof device will float in a bath, or rest on the floor in a shower
• for wandering residents
• pressure mats – activates when stood on
• bed/chair sensors – activates if a resident gets up
• passive infra-red units (PIR’s) – e.g. for a resident getting out of bed that attempts to bypass a pressure mat
• for staff
• key switches – for monitoring fire exits
• doorbell/telephone monitors – with distinctive chimes to alert appropriate staff

This list is by no means exhaustive.

Flexible Solutions

Radio nurse call systems offer flexibility and mobility which cannot be rivalled by a hardwired system. They are portable, meaning equipment can be placed where required and then moved if necessary. This is ideal for if the room layout changes, or if occupied buildings require refurbishment. The system simply moves with the resident. As the system is modular, it is relatively easy and cost effective to extend, allowing the system to evolve with the needs of the establishment.

Installation

For installation of radio nurse call systems in existing homes, the main expenditure is due to the electronic technology in the equipment itself, but this is becoming more advanced and cheaper to produce. With hard-wired systems, the main costs tend to be incurred during installation, due to necessary cabling and labour costs. The ease of installation of radio nurse call systems means minimal disruption to residents. Units can be preprogrammed off-site, meaning that in most cases, only a few minutes of access to occupied rooms is necessary. No redecoration is needed, saving further expenditure. This is ideal for older buildings, where listed status may prevent the installation of a hard-wired system. The “Plug and Play” nature of a radio nurse call system means that the equipment can be bought as “Supply Only” and installed by the establishment, saving on installation costs.

After-Care

As with any kind of high-tech equipment, postinstallation maintenance is very important. In most establishments, the nurse call system will be one of the busiest pieces of equipment, but can sometimes be overlooked. It is therefore advised that the system is serviced regularly. However, if there was a low/medium fault, i.e. a faulty room unit, this could simply be posted back and repaired or replaced without affecting the entire system.

Try Before You Buy

The option to “Try Before You Buy” may be available, as a trial system can be easily installed. So if you are considering a new nurse call system, why not look for a “Try Before You Buy” scheme to give hands-on experience of using the system in a real life, working environment, giving you the confidence to buy.

Live-Link Communications Ltd.
Tel: 01506 884404
Fax 01506 884406
Email: nursecallalarms@aol.com
Web: www.nursecallalarms.co.uk