Continuous Video Monitor Observation

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Continuous Video Monitoring The term “sitters” in the acute care setting has been defined as a means to observe a patient by a staff member to provide safety for the patient and staff. The patient sitter responsibilities can vary between each hospital but, typically include responsibilities such as caring for patients that are at risk for falling, confused, combative, homicidal or suicidal (Adams & Kaplow, 2013). Two categories have emerged for patients who would benefit from sitters, the first being those at high risk for falling, and the second being patients in a psychiatric crisis. A psychiatric crisis includes criteria from the number of elopements and documented assaultive behavior in the past (Harding, 2010). In order to provide a safe environment for the patient, nurses provide them an area where a sitter is immediately available. Findings suggest little research in the correlation of the use of sitters in preventing patient harm and being as cost effect (Harding, 2010). According to one study, sitter programs in three area hospitals suggest the cost of sitter programs ranged from $233,000 to $580,000 annually. When faced with challenges concerning patient safety, staffing issues also arise when nurses and sitters aren’t readily available (Adams & …show more content…
Case studies suggest a camera in the rooms has an added benefit for safety resources, for at-risk patients that may pick and pull at tubing/line, patients that are easily redirected and families or physicians that may request the use of a sitter for additional safety (Jeffers et al., 2013). A designated medical/surgical floor that acute care patients, that are deemed a threat to themselves or others by a licensed mental health professional or physician would be made with cameras available in each room to continually observe that