ECRI Warns About Alarms Run Amok
Patient alarms play a critical role in the inpatient healthcare landscape, notifying caregivers of a wide array of situations that require attention. But a recent report from ECRI notes potential problem with alarm overuse and inappropriate use of alarm systems. Such issues can contribute to alarm fatigue and providers may become less attentive when monitoring systems issue an alert.
The report issued by ECRI, “The Hazards of Alarm Overload”, details the optimal means to use alarm systems which monitor vital signs as a tool to improve overall patient care. In particular, the respected nonprofit notes unnecessary indications which result in alarms and ways to minimize alarms that are unnecessary.
Some tips offered by ECRI include moderating the routines for monitoring, such as:
- Following recommendations for placing electrodes and sensors,
- Training healthcare providers as to when alarms can be disarmed, and
- Training healthcare providers about alarm use, particularly device settings.
The guidelines were published in ECRI’s journal, Health Devices.
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July 2, 2007 Related topics: Monitoring, Quality, Safety, Errors