Hardware or devices are available for use by NSW Health employees to support clinical care.
With advances in technology and availability of mobile equipment, the tools to implement care are now more accessible and efficient.
The following hardware is commonly available in NSW Health facilities and mobile work spaces that support the implementation of virtual care services:
- Cameras (webcam, wall mounted, ceiling mounted)
- Microphones
- Speakers
- LCD screens (including dual monitor arrangements)
- Desktop computer/tablet/laptop
- Portable wireless trolley
- Workstation on wheels (WoW) or computer on wheels (CoW)
- Videoconferencing trolley/cart
- Mobile phones
- Hearing induction coils
- Headsets
- Specialist mobile devices
- Clinical peripherals, such as endoscopes, ultrasounds, intra-oral cameras, exam glasses, probes, blood pressure monitors, pulse/oximeters and digital stethoscopes
Talk to your virtual care manager or lead or ICT team who can help you identify existing devices, modify existing devices (e.g. clinical carts, workstation on wheels) or purchase new equipment to support your clinical requirements.
Buying new hardware
Purchasing hardware is regulated for NSW Health staff. This ensures it works with the existing local and state infrastructure and meets clinical standards. The virtual care manager or lead works with clinical teams to ensure the equipment is:
- fit for purpose
- supported
- the latest model
- purchased at a competitive price
- purchased from an approved vendor on an appropriate NSW Health procurement panel.
Installation and maintenance
Contact your virtual care manager or lead for support with identifying the right hardware, getting quotes and installing the equipment.
All hardware needs to be stored securely to minimise theft and ensure there are no workplace safety issues, such as cluttered walkways that are trip hazards for consumers and staff. You must also follow local processes for infection prevention and control when using the equipment.
Your virtual care manager or ICT service can help with registering mobile devices and tablets to ensure they can be traced or wiped if they are lost.