Enhancing Quality of Resident Care and Staff Efficiency Through Implementation of Sensors in the Long-Term Care Setting: A Multi-Site Mixed-Methods Study

TL;DR

This study explores how bed sensors in long-term care facilities can improve resident sleep and reduce staff workload, while identifying challenges like connectivity issues.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into the practical implementation of bed sensor technology in long-term care settings through a multi-site mixed-methods approach.

Findings

Staff found the sensor alerts helpful for timely interventions and fall prevention.

Sensor technology reduced repetitive nighttime checks and improved care planning.

Technical issues like internet connectivity and training limitations hindered reliability.

Abstract

Introduction: Individuals residing in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) often experience poor sleep quality. Emerging sensor technologies may improve resident sleep quality and reduce staff workload. This evaluation assessed the impact of a bed sensor technology on LTCF staff experiences and resident outcomes. Methods: A mixed-methods evaluation examined the impact of a pilot implementation of Toch Sleepsense, a non-wearable sensor placed under residents’ beds, which monitors sleep patterns, movement, and vital signs. Data were gathered from staff surveys, interviews, and focus groups from three LTCFs in Western Canada. Descriptive statistics of survey data and thematic analysis of qualitative survey responses and focus groups were used to identify themes in staff experiences with Toch Sleepsense. Results: Staff valued the utility of Toch Sleepsense in providing alerts that support timely interventions and fall prevention. Staff further recognized the value of sensor devices in decreasing repetitive nighttime checks and providing vital sign monitoring. Toch Sleepsense data informed care planning and improved resident comfort. Inconsistent internet connectivity, sensor realignments, and limited training posed challenges to reliability. Conclusions: Sensor technologies like Toch Sleepsense show potential to improve safety, support staff workload management, and improve care practices. Sustained benefits require reliable technical infrastructure, comprehensive staff training, and strong leadership support.

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