When working on a hospital unit, the nurses use a voice communication system based on the existing wireless network to support instant voice communication and messaging among staff within the agency. Using this device allows nurses to connect to the telephone system and to access other users of the system through a small, one-button, voice-access, lightweight badge. This device is known as

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Voice communication systems use wearable, hands-free devices that use the existing wireless network to support instant voice communication and messaging among staff within an agency. The nurse wears a small, lightweight badge that permits one-button voice access to other users of the system. It also will connect to the telephone system. One example is Vocera. It is said to reduce the time for key communications, such as looking for the medication keys, looking for others (a 45% reduction), paging doctors, or walking to the nursing station telephone (a 25% reduction). Nurses report that voice-activated communication facilitates communication, results in fewer interruptions, promotes better continuity of care, and improves their workflow. Personal digital assistants (PDAs) are handheld electronic devices that may contain multiple databases, possibly including a language translator for use when interviewing a patient from another culture. Smartphones represent the convergence of cellular mobile phones and mobile computers. These devices, such as the Blackberry, have three functions. They enable one to download and access PDA-type information resources, provide Internet access to patient information [new lab results or physician orders], and make and receive telephone calls or instant messages. Telehealth provides live, real-time audio and visual transmissions from one care provider to another or to a patient. This technology is hailed as a boon to rural practitioners, facilitating long-distance consultations by expert specialists. Telehealth nursing communicates monitoring data to the nurse from the patient.

When Working on a Hospital Unit, the Nurses Use a Voice