Description: Hospital monitoring is the process of tracking health metrics of patients within a hospital environment. This process involves the use of advanced devices and technologies to collect vital data, such as heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and oxygen saturation, among others. Monitoring is performed in real-time, allowing healthcare professionals to detect changes in the patient’s condition immediately. The collected information is presented on screens that are easily accessible to medical staff, facilitating quick and effective decision-making. Furthermore, hospital monitoring is not limited to patients in intensive care; it also applies in emergency rooms, operating theaters, and intermediate care units. The importance of this process lies in its ability to improve patient care, reduce complications, and optimize hospital resources. In a context where every second counts, continuous monitoring becomes an essential tool to ensure patient safety and well-being.
History: Hospital monitoring has significantly evolved since its inception in the 20th century. The first monitoring devices were rudimentary and limited to manual measurement of vital signs. With technological advancements in the 1960s, electronic monitors were introduced, allowing for continuous measurement of vital parameters. Over the decades, monitoring has become more sophisticated, incorporating technologies such as telemetry and remote monitoring, enabling more effective patient tracking, even from a distance.
Uses: Hospital monitoring is primarily used in intensive care units, emergency rooms, and operating theaters. It allows doctors and nurses to continuously supervise patients’ health status, detect complications early, and adjust treatments in real-time. It is also used in postoperative monitoring and for patients with chronic illnesses requiring continuous follow-up.
Examples: An example of hospital monitoring is the use of multiparameter monitors in intensive care units, which allow simultaneous tracking of several vital signs. Another example is remote monitoring of patients with heart diseases, where data is sent to doctors through wearable devices, allowing constant tracking without the need for hospitalization.
