Although most fall prevention programs include a set of robust protocols for patient toileting, falls in the bathroom continue to pose a problem for hospitals and other care facilities.
For example, a recently published study analyzing data associated with 353 patient falls reported at 17 U.S. hospitals over a 2-year period found that more than one-fifth (21.5%) of the falls occurred in the bathroom.1 The study also indicated that nearly half (46.7%) of the bathroom falls proved injurious.1
Fall safety protocols should consider patient ambulation both to and from the bathroom, toileting-related undressing/dressing, and use of the toilet. This article pertains to the latter activity.
Specifically, we’ll be discussing a wireless toilet exit sensor that can help safeguard patients in the bathroom. Designed and manufactured by Posey®, a TIDI Products brand, this innovative product solution is an easy-to-implement technology that can be used to bolster patient toileting protocols.
Having previously introduced a wireless chair exit sensor for the professional healthcare market, Posey next decided to work with practicing clinicians to develop a sensor that would address another critical area of need, namely, bathroom safety.
Designed to help nurses monitor fall risk patients who may attempt an unassisted toilet exit, the resultant Posey Wireless Toilet Sensor is engineered to trigger an alarm when the patient’s weight is removed from the toilet seat under which the pressure-sensitive device has been placed and activated.
This easy-to-use Wireless Toilet Sensor leverages advanced wireless technology to facilitate nursing workflow in busy environments. It is intended as a complement, not a replacement, for established protocols like safety checks and regular rounding.
Now let’s look at some of the sensor’s features.
Notable features of the Posey Wireless Toilet Sensor include its integration capabilities, wireless connectivity, pressure sensitivity, and useful life.
As mentioned earlier, the Posey Wireless Toilet Sensor should not be used to replace an organization’s established toileting protocols; it is intended for use as an added safety measure in the bathroom.
Easy placement of the cord-free sensor on the front of the toilet bowl, simple-to-follow instructions, and the flexibility to place or mount the wireless On Cue PRO Alarm (with which the sensor is paired) just outside the door to the bathroom all support nursing workflow.
Use of this sensor can help nurses respect the patient’s right to dignity and privacy. It can also let nurses know when a fall risk patient who didn’t seek their assistance is attempting a toilet exit.
Installation of the Wireless Toilet Sensor is simple and straightforward. Instructions for use (IFU) are printed directly on the sensor; a paper version of the IFU is also shipped with the device.
The IFU clearly and concisely explains how to pair the Wireless Toilet Sensor with an On Cue PRO Alarm, how to place and test the sensor, how to unpair the sensor from the alarm, and how to discard the sensor. The IFU also provides information on cleaning and disinfecting the sensor, storing the sensor, and the sensor warranty. A digital version of the IFU can be downloaded from the TIDI Products website.
Staff training should include device demonstrations, active participation in simulated scenarios, and a review of relevant maintenance/troubleshooting guidelines. Refresher training should also be provided.
Effective fall prevention programs can help reduce the risk of patient falls, lessen the severity of fall-related injuries, and decrease associated costs. Devices designed to help caregivers monitor fall risk patients, such as the Posey Wireless Toilet Sensor, can strengthen these safety initiatives.
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