Strategies for Managing Mobile Devices for Use by Hospitalized Inpatients

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Hospital Management
• Patient Engagement Technology

Background:

• Mobile devices offer potential benefits in hospitals but pose significant implementation and management challenges.
• Effective integration requires addressing technical, security, and operational aspects.
• Existing hospital environments often lack seamless technological integration for care teams and patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation of the PROSPECT project, a suite of e-tools designed to enhance hospital environments.
• To detail device-related decisions and challenges encountered during the project.
• To share strategies and lessons learned for managing mobile devices in a hospital setting.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of the PROSPECT project at Brigham and Women's Hospital.
• Development and integration of a suite of e-tools.
• Analysis of device selection, integration, security, infection control, user access, and maintenance strategies.

Main Results:

• Identified key challenges in device selection, accessory choices, and system integration.
• Addressed critical issues related to information and device security, and infection control protocols.
• Developed operational and maintenance strategies for sustained mobile device use.

Conclusions:

• Successful implementation of mobile technology in hospitals requires careful planning and management of device-related challenges.
• The PROSPECT project provides a framework for improving teamwork and patient engagement through technology.
• Lessons learned offer valuable insights for healthcare institutions seeking to adopt mobile solutions.