Virtual experts support better ICU care .
When Jefferson Hospital doctors first adopted a Virtual ICU system last year , they had no idea how vital it would be during the COVID-19 pandemic . The VICU monitors at each ICU bed connect to a remote team of intensive care nurses , and boardcertified specialists use sophisticated equipment to monitor vital signs , lab results , medications , and other data . They can alert hospital staff to any critical changes in a patient ’ s condition .
“ The virtual ICU adds additional support to the bedside staff , which has let us elevate the level of care we provide ,” said Jeffrey Bomba , MBA , MSN , RN , NE-BC , nurse manager of the Intensive Care Unit at Jefferson . “ With this new technology , patients have a greater sense of care within the critical care environment , and it ’ s improved our patient outcomes and satisfaction .”
Giving extra attention to critical patients .
At the Jefferson Hospital intensive care unit ( ICU ), nurse practitioners often serve as the central hub of the care team , making sure everyone is connected and communicating .
“ We are certified to assess , diagnose , plan , and treat patients independently , in collaboration with a physician ,” said Jillian
Figorski , AG-ACNP . “ Working in the ICU , I learn a lot and see a lot , but I still have close relationships with my patients .”
Jillian , and Marissa Eaton , AG-ACNP , are both board-certified as adult gerontology acute care nurse practitioners .
“ We keep the doctors , nurses , and specialists up to date . We watch in real time and make sure the whole team knows what is happening ,” Marissa said .
Some COVID-19 patients have spent a month in the ICU . The care team makes an extra effort to be attentive to these patients ’ needs and keep everyone informed about their progress .
JILLIAN FIGORSKI , AG-ACNP
FOR APPOINTMENTS OR MORE INFO , CALL ( 412 ) DOCTORS OR VISIT AHN . ORG / JEFFERSON .