Choosing a mobile device for hospital use: the benefits of a smartphone
There are many mobile devices available for hospital use, and many factors influence the choice of device. In addition to the price, it is important to consider, for example, how and in which conditions the device will be used.
When choosing a mobile device for hospital use, you should put the needs of the organisation first. When choosing a device, it is a good idea to consider what kind of features are required for use, how the device is used, and what conditions the device should withstand. The user-friendliness of the device is also an important factor. Options include smartphones and tablets among others. A Computer-on-Wheels (CoW) is a traditional solution.
Comparing different types of mobile devices
| Computer-on-Wheels | Tablet | Smartphone | |
| Size | large | medium size, does not fit in a pocket, must be used with two hands | small, fits in a pocket, can be used with one hand |
| Best choice if… | you need to view a large amount of data next to the patient | you want to view visual information (e.g., x-rays) in different places on a screen larger than the smartphone screen | limited amount of data is needed often and there is therefore a need to carry the device with you at all times; several people need to have access to the same information at the same time in different places and therefore many devices are needed |
| Not optimal if… | limited amount of data is needed often or several people should have access to the same information at the same time in different places, many devices are needed | a nurse needs to always carry the device with them | there is a need to view a large amount of data at once |
| Call option | no | yes, but clumsy and only via IP telephony apps | yes, optimal |
| Price | expensive | usually more expensive than a smartphone | affordable |
Smartphone benefits
Due to its small size, the smartphone has many advantages in real-life situations. The nursing staff has found the smartphone to be a comfortable tool as it is easy to carry around. Usability is optimised for situations in which the device is used: the treatment situation next to the patient. Only the information that is relevant in the treatment situation is clearly displayed on the smartphone. The smartphone can be used with just one hand, leaving the employee’s other hand free.
Medanets’ solutions are used primarily on Android devices. The most common devices in production are Samsung A20, XCover 4 and Ascom Myco. Our solutions also work on iOS devices, so our customers have a lot of choices when it comes to devices. We are happy to tell you more about our experiences with mobile devices that are suitable for different purposes!
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