FEATURE TECHNOLOGY
The impact is clearly palpable and the virt
sessions have been both powerful and invalu
‘Seeing patients faces light up with smiles an
of happiness is really very special and it has k
patients upbeat during a time of uncertainty,’
says.
‘I think the implementation of the iPad and
of video platforms such as Zoom and FaceT
had such a positive impact on our whole wa
only has it brought the patients closer to thei
at a time of visiting restrictions and social dis
but it has brought the ward closer – working
to facilitate the calls throughout the day.’
Kate stresses that there have been ‘lots o
among the ward team, with staff sharing ‘fun
positive stories’ of calls they have facilitated w
their patients, many of whom have been new
technology.
‘Seeing and hearing their reaction to seein
relatives on screen has brought a lot of warm
ward,’ she says.
‘Some relatives live nearby, but they have
seen each other for over two months, while o
live abroad and haven’t seen each other’s fac
years. We’ve made calls around the world, a
definitely something that should and will con
the pandemic.
‘There have been tears of joy and elation,
and loneliness. We have comforted patients
cried during Zoom sessions and interpreted
who have struggled to hear. It’s emotional for
and patients, but incredibly rewarding and fu
same time.’
She adds: ‘The feedback from both patie
relatives has been very positive. Virtual visitin
the channels of communication open and ha
to alleviate some of the difficulties experience
patients who remain in hospital throughout th
‘They have given patients comfort and ha
family reassurance at a time of distance and
uncertainty. Going forward, I think Zoom
meetings between family who are
geographically apart, or who
34 OTnews June 2020