Eleni Stella Kalandranis
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, USA
Title: Constant Care: A 21st Century Innovative Approach to Fall Reduction
Biography
Biography: Eleni Stella Kalandranis
Abstract
Statement of the Problem: Reducing patient harm resulting from a fall is a national patient safety goal. Patient falls continue
to challenge the healthcare industry especially in inpatient units despite the implementation of evidence based practices. Video
monitoring is a practice being used in other hospitals to reduce companion cost. The video surveillance programs used are
limited by the number of patients that can be observed concurrently and do not decrease falls rate.
Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: The Constant Care program uses innovative technology to reduce falls. Constant
Care consists of using video content analytics to monitor up to 40 patients at once with supporting staff workflows focusing on
communication and staff notification. The total cost of the technology was $74,000 for a 43 bed unit.
Findings: Two units in a comprehensive cancer center had successful results from Constant Care in 2017. The pilot began on
a 43 bed inpatient adult surgical unit and a 38 bed (5 critical care beds) neurology, neurosurgery, and orthopedic unit. Since
installation both units have seen a reduction in unassisted fall rate and a decrease in companion rate patient days. This program
also resulted in zero falls with injury for six months in neuro/ortho unit. The cost benefit has also been demonstrated in the
savings of companion dollars which has surpassed the cost of program development.
Conclusion & Significance: Patient falls continue to trouble most healthcare organizations. A patient fall with injury can be
harmful and costly. Video monitoring technology with advanced video content analytics has proven successful in reducing
falls and companion costs on acute care inpatient units for the oncology population. By exploring and leveraging innovative
technology successfully pioneered in other industries, Constant Care has improved patient safety and increased patient
satisfaction.