Monitoring monitors.

Abstract

A centralized, remote alarm system was implemented to alert nursing personnel when patient monitors located in isolation rooms go into alarm. The design includes a method of confirming the ON/OFF status of individual monitors to avoid operator error. This system utilizes low-cost individual patient monitors and includes interface devices, an alarm panel, and indicator panels. The design logic is based on the need for nursing personnel to also be alerted in the event of any abnormality associated with the patient monitors, the alarm panel itself, or with the interconnections. The system will also accommodate infusion pumps, respirators, or any other devices equipped with a remote alarm (nurse call) output.