Beverly Bowser, RN

Home telehealth is brand new in so many ways and it’s important to have the basics addressed at the get-go so we can spend our time being nurses, not technicians. In my own first experiences, the crisis of entering the home and not being able to make telehealth work was resolved by running to the hardware store and getting a 3-pronged adapter for less than a dollar. Similarly, limited numbers of phone jacks in the older homes was a problem easily resolved. I carry a 50-foot telephone cord with me when getting people set up and comfortable with telehealth so they don’t have to go from room to room to do their telehealth.

My most reliable tool is Velco-banded, colored ties to place on every line and piece of equipment. They add to visibility and I also use them to shorten cords or lines so there is no excess materials left on the flooring. For additional safety reasons, I also always duct tape the lines to the flooring or carpeting, with the patients’ permission.

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