Foundation Funds New Vital Sign Machines for the NRGH Emergency Department through2024 Golf for Life
In September 2024, the NRGH Emergency Department was approached by the Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation as a recipient for funds raised at the annual Golf for Life tournament. On our wish list were vital sign machines the department knew needed to be replaced. The current vital sign machines were at end of life and being used consistently 24 hours, 7 days a week in our busy department. I knew there was likely a lot of support for this local golf tournament, but did not expect the incredible generosity of the community to support our needs.
Through the Foundation, we were able to purchase 23 new Vital Sign machines along with rolling stands, and bar code scanners. The upgraded vital sign machines will make a big impact on efficiency and patient care within ED. For example, these machines are able to connect with our electronic health record system to upload blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen level, and temperature results directly into the patient’s chart. They have scanning capability which allow nurses to scan their identification and patient identification directly into the chart. Additionally, the monitors have better screens and abilities to set alarms which alert staff when vital sign results are outside normal parameters.
We are excited to have to have now received all the monitors and extra attachments from the vender. After some education to staff through our Clinical Educator, we will rollout the new vital sign machines at the end of this month.
Ensuring we have essential equipment such as vital sign machines to support patient assessments in the ED is a crucial to patient care decision making. So, a big thank you to all those who attend the Golf for Life Tournament and contributed to these special needs within our Emergency Department and hospital.
Karen Muncaster
Emergency Service Manager, NRGH
