HOSPITAL SIGNALS

Press, Volume C, Issue 29515, 17 May 1961, Page 18

HOSPITAL SIGNALS

New System At Rotorua

<N Z Press Association/ WELLINGTON, May 16. Because of long-term deterioration caused by the sulphur in the Rotorua atmosphere, the bedside signal system at Queen Elizabeth Hospital recently required complete and, what was thought at first, very costly replacement. Two members of the hospital staff, however, evolved a simple but satisfactory system requiring only six volts, and eliminating costly relays and other delicate wiring and electrical components. | The new system, explained in the Public Service Commission’s latest catalogue of suggestions and ideas by public servants throughout New Zealand, is simply a light and buzzer on a cheap wooden base board fitted over each bed. A patient requiring a nurse pulls a cord which switches on a light. Should the nurse not see the light a further pull on the cord sounds a buzzer, and this can be repeated until attention is received. Signals will also be fitted’ in the sister’s office and at one other point. Sufficient of these devices—which will mean substantial savings in manufacture and installation —will be fitted to service all beds in the hospital.