Monitoring Vital Signs With Continuous Monitoring After Major Gastrointestinal Surgical Procedures: The Patient, Nurse and Physician Perspective

Background

Patients undergoing major abdominal surgical procedures are at risk of postoperative complications, requiring early recognition. Clinical deterioration is preceded by changes in vital sings, which are measured three times a day by a nurse. Due to the intermittent measuring, this may result in a delay in the recognition of clinical deterioration. Continuous vital sign monitoring through wireless sensors offers a potential solution for earlier recognition.

Aim

To evaluate user satisfaction of a new wireless monitoring system measuring vital signs continuously, by both patients and healthcare providers.

Design

A prospective, questionnaire-based study.

Methods

From December 2021 to November 2022, user experience questionnaires were administered to patients who underwent major abdominal surgical procedures and received the patch postoperatively. Questionnaires were administered as well to nurses and physicians working on a surgical ward with the patch. Continuous measurements of heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature were taken using the Sensium wireless patch.

Results

A total of 298 respondents completed the questionnaire, 191 patients, 88 nurses, and 19 physicians. Of the patients, 69% had a positive experience with the patch, and 74% felt safer. Sixty-three percent of the nurses were positive, and 65% had the feeling that they could monitor the patients better this way. Of the physicians, 63% were positive, 32% believed clinical deterioration could be identified earlier.

Conclusion

The use of the Sensium wireless patch for continuous monitoring of vital signs postoperatively was found to be feasible and well-tolerated. Patients, nurses, and physicians reported a positive experience with its use.