The case for wearable proximity devices to inform physical distancing among healthcare workers.
JAMIA Open
; 4(4): ooab095, 2021 Oct.
Article
in English
| MEDLINE | ID: covidwho-1584261
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE:
Despite the importance of physical distancing in reducing SARS-CoV-2 transmission, this practice is challenging in healthcare. We piloted use of wearable proximity beacons among healthcare workers (HCWs) in an inpatient unit to highlight considerations for future use of trackable technologies in healthcare settings. MATERIALS ANDMETHODS:
We performed a feasibility pilot study in a non-COVID adult medical unit from September 28 to October 28, 2020. HCWs wore wearable proximity beacons, and interactions defined as <6 feet for ≥5 s were recorded. Validation was performed using direct observations.RESULTS:
A total of 6172 close proximity interactions were recorded, and with the removal of 2033 false-positive interactions, 4139 remained. The highest proportion of interactions occurred between 700 Am-900 Am. Direct observations of HCWs substantiated these findings.DISCUSSION:
This pilot study showed that wearable beacons can be used to monitor and quantify HCW interactions in inpatient settings.CONCLUSION:
Technology can be used to track HCW physical distancing.
Full text:
Available
Collection:
International databases
Database:
MEDLINE
Type of study:
Observational study
/
Prognostic study
Language:
English
Journal:
JAMIA Open
Year:
2021
Document Type:
Article
Affiliation country:
Jamiaopen
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