Virtual visiting and other technological adaptations for critical care

Future Healthc J. 2020 Oct;7(3):e93-e95. doi: 10.7861/fhj.2020-0088.

Abstract

Social distancing measures introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in an almost complete cessation of family bedside interaction, with negative effects on patients, families and staff. Here we report on measures introduced in response to this situation at the critical care unit in one hospital involving the use of videoconferencing technology. The solutions used also had the potential to be extended to clinical use, for example when seeking advice for colleagues, and to the provision of training.

Keywords: COVID-19; communicating with relatives; critical care; telecommunications; virtual visiting.