How Does It Work?

The patient has different types of sensing devices attached to their body, (e.g. ECG dots or oxygen saturation probe ) which are connected to the monitor by wires (called leads). The sensing devices send electronic signals through the leads to the monitor, which then displays the signals. The monitor has alarms, which can signal to the staff if a body function needs attention, however sometimes patient movement alone can cause the alarms to go off. All patients admitted to the ICU are connected to a bedside monitor during their stay. Being attached to the bedside monitor does not hurt the patient.

Are There Any Complications?

All Intensive Care interventions and procedures carry a degree of potential risk even when performed by skilled and experienced staff. Please discuss these issues with the medical and nursing staff who are caring for the patient.

Any Questions?

Of course, if you have any questions or concerns, please discuss them with the ICU nurses and doctors.

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The information contained on this page is general in nature and therefore cannot reflect individual patient variation. In addition it reflects Australian intensive care practice which may differ from that in other countries. It is meant as a back up to specific information which will be discussed with you by the Doctors and Nurses caring for your loved one. ICCMU attests to the accuracy of the information contained here BUT takes no responsibility for how it may apply to an individual patient. Please refer to the full disclaimer.

Publication

Bedside Monitors Version 1.2
First published June 2004
Reviewed October 2011
Reviewer Kay Johnson CNS ICCMU