Innovative Solutions Emerge as Virtual Nursing and Sitting Platforms Tackle Healthcare Staff Shortages

A recent KLAS report sheds light on the positive impact of virtual nursing and sitting solutions in alleviating staffing shortages within healthcare organizations. The inaugural KLAS Virtual Sitting & Nursing 2023 report delves into customer experiences and outcomes, showcasing the satisfaction of healthcare professionals with these innovative platforms.

Key Insights from the Report:

Virtual Sitting and Nursing Platforms Overview:

Virtual sitting software enables healthcare organizations to observe patients and prevent adverse events.
Virtual nursing software empowers remote nurses to perform tasks like discharge planning and documentation, supporting bedside nurses.
Both solutions involve the use of in-room video and audio hardware.
Customer Satisfaction and Long-Term Plans:

Of the 43 healthcare professionals surveyed, 98% consider their current virtual nursing and sitting solutions as integral to their long-term plans.
Respondents highlighted the positive impact of these solutions on staffing shortages, with 59% stating a very positive impact and 28% indicating a moderately positive impact.
Observation Capacity Enhancement:

Organizations have increased observation capacity, transitioning from a 1:1 sitter-to-patient ratio to one sitter observing several patients.
This shift has freed up skilled clinical staff previously assigned to sitting roles, allowing them to contribute their expertise more meaningfully elsewhere.
Performance of Specific Solutions:

AvaSure earned an impressive overall performance score of 89.7 on a 100-point scale, with customers praising its ability to drive tangible outcomes, such as reducing patient falls and tube/line interferences.
Collette Health (formerly MedSitter) received a commendable score of 89.4, showcasing its effectiveness in virtual sitting.
Challenges and Considerations:

Concerns about cost were raised, with some AvaSure customers feeling “nickel-and-dimed” for cameras and necessary equipment.
Customers emphasized the importance of manageable ongoing costs related to equipment longevity, replacement, and scaling.
Vendor-Specific Feedback:

AvaSure customers appreciated the solution’s cost-effective approach, though some expressed concerns about additional charges.
Collette Health customers praised the platform for reducing patient falls and mitigating staffing shortages, but some desired enhanced reporting and analytics capabilities.
Growing Interest in Virtual Nursing:

Survey results aligned with the report’s findings, indicating that 75% of healthcare professionals see virtual nursing as a recruitment opportunity.
Despite this interest, 14% of respondents cited a lack of confidence in return on investment as a barrier to implementing virtual nursing solutions.
In conclusion, the KLAS report underscores the positive reception and tangible benefits of virtual nursing and sitting platforms, offering a glimpse into their potential to address staffing challenges in the healthcare sector.