Kuopio University Hospital: How Smart Nurse Call Systems Save Time and Steps

Kuopio University Hospital – Experiences with the 9Solutions Solution

The Department of Pulmonary Diseases and Internal Medicine at Kuopio University Hospital (KYS) has been utilizing the 9Solutions locating nurse call solution since 2018.

The staff has been highly satisfied with the system, describing it as a modern tool that significantly eases the workload of nursing staff. Compared to the previous system, a primary advantage of the 9Solutions solution is that nurse call alerts are sent directly to nurses' smartphones in addition to corridor displays. The number of corridor displays was also increased, further improving the staff's overall situational awareness.

Smartphones are in constant use by the staff and host other essential nursing applications. "Every nurse carries a phone, allowing them to see immediately who is calling and where the alarm is coming from. This ensures the right person can take charge of the task," says Marjo Miettinen, Assistant Ward Manager.

The ability to open a voice connection to a patient's room via the phone has streamlined workflows considerably. It saves time by allowing nurses to ask what the patient needs before physically heading to the room.

Enhancing Security and Accessibility

Wireless safety buttons for staff have also proven extremely beneficial, enhancing security for both personnel and patients. Since the safety button is always with the nurse, they can trigger an emergency alarm or request additional assistance with a single press—without having to leave the patient to find help in the hallway or office. Thanks to real-time locating, the person in need of help is found quickly and easily.

"It has made nursing work easier to be able to call the room and request extra help. It saves so many steps." — Marjo Miettinen, Assistant Ward Manager, KYS

The new alarm buttons have also been more user-friendly for patients. "In the old system, the alarm buttons were very stiff, and elderly patients weren't always able to press them," Miettinen notes.

The "New Heart 2025" Project

Kuopio University Hospital is currently undergoing a massive renovation and expansion project, New Heart 2025, which is progressing in stages. 9Solutions’ locating nurse call, personnel security, and equipment tracking solutions will be implemented throughout the entire renewed hospital area. The system delivery, installation, and maintenance are managed by Loihde Oy.

The New Heart project is taking place between 2018–2025. The new construction and renovation cover approximately 60,000 square meters with a budget of €164 million. The project's goal is to build one of Europe’s most modern hospital centers.