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Experiences With an In-Bed Real-Time Motion Monitoring System on a Geriatric Ward: Mixed Methods Study
Stefan Walzer1, Isabel Schön2, Johanna Pfeil2
1Care and Technology Lab, Furtwangen University, Furtwangen im Schwarzwald, Germany.
JMIR Formative Research
|March 7, 2025
Summary
An in-bed real-time motion monitoring system (IRMS) showed positive nurse perceptions for fall prevention and workload reduction. While not definitively proving fall prevention, the IRMS enhanced nurse responsiveness and reduced anxiety.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Nursing Technology
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Older adults comprise a significant portion of hospital admissions, often with cognitive impairments like dementia.
- These patients present challenges in care adherence, sleep-cycle regulation, and managing agitation, increasing nurse workload.
- Hospitals often lack adequate preparation for managing the complex needs of geriatric patients, leading to increased risks such as falls.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of an in-bed real-time motion monitoring system (IRMS) on nurses' stress levels.
- To assess the IRMS's influence on the patient care process and explore ethical considerations.
- To understand nurses' knowledge acquisition regarding the IRMS and its effect on their technology assessment.
Main Methods:
- A 24-week, mixed-methods study in a university medical center's geriatric ward using an in-bed real-time motion monitoring system (IRMS).
- Two phases: Phase 0 (standard care) and Phase 1 (IRMS implementation), with data collected via focus groups, observations, surveys, and interviews.
- Utilized the Good Reporting of a Mixed Method Study (GRAMMS) checklist for transparent reporting.
Main Results:
- Nurses found the IRMS valuable for work quality assessment (80%) and expressed willingness to continue its use (90%).
- The system was rated positively for reliability in monitoring bed exits and usability, with minimal documentation concerns.
- Focus groups revealed appreciation for the IRMS in reducing fall-related anxiety, though privacy concerns were noted; nurses affirmed their ability to provide care without the system.
Conclusions:
- Nurses generally held positive views towards the IRMS, especially for nighttime monitoring.
- The IRMS demonstrated potential in reducing nurses' fear of falls and improving responsiveness, despite inconclusive evidence on direct fall prevention.
- The study emphasizes the IRMS's broader benefits beyond fall prevention, underscoring the need for careful integration into healthcare practices.
