Abstract
Can use of sensor technology prevent hospitalisations in frail older people at high risk of hospital admissions?
Background
There has been significant developments, investment and ambition to use modern technology in admission avoidance in hospitals. Sensor technology has been one area of development. We used My Sense to improve outcomes for a cohort of High Intensity Users (HIU) frail older patients, and compared hospitalisation rates before and after employing Sensor technology. HIU patient consent criteria is 3 Admissions with 40 days Length of Stay.
Introduction
MySENSE
- 8 Sensors placed around the home
- Chargeable wrist device
- Monitors - activity, heart rate, environment temperature
Aim
- To detect change in health and routine
- Reduce deterioration in physical and mental health well-being
- Promote independence
- Unnecessary Admissions
Methods
Fifty randomly selected HIU patients consented to use My Sense from November 2021 to June 2022. HIU monitors usage via a dashboard with the aim to intervene and reduce the likelihood of deterioration caused by inactivity or illness. HIU contacts the key responders, include liaising with family members, GP, other health/care professionals if unusual patterns or no activity is recorded. For example - bed/chair/toilet/kettle/tap sensor not being activated for some time. Indicators for potential UTI’s, constipation, dehydration, reduced mobility and other conditions if not addressed may result in admission.
Results
- Admissions prior to installation 84 post 54
- Length of Stay prior to installation 909 post 724
- Cost saving = £64,750.00
- Cost of equipment £399 with a monthly subscription fees £39.99 per month
Conclusion
- Useful to detect any changes to normal pattern improving patient safety
- Early identification of deterioration and early deployment of help for earlier intervention
- Raised patient, family and staff satisfaction/reassurance
- Reduced reliance on acute care
- Reduced level of physical social care support / greater independence
- Useful tool but more detailed studies are needed.