Oslo residents gain new wrist-mounted assistance buttons for enhanced patient safety at Lilleborg Health House

In a significant update to patient safety, residents at Lilleborg Health House in Oslo now have access to a wrist-mounted button to call for assistance, replacing the traditional wall-mounted emergency cords.

Drude Kraft, a resident who has been using the new system for three weeks, expressed her satisfaction, noting that the button effectively sends alerts to staff mobile phones. She appreciates the reassurance it provides, stating, “This is exactly what we need.” Previously, she relied on the old cord system, which she feels is no longer necessary.

Oslo’s health commissioner, Saliba Andreas Korkunc, confirmed the implementation of this modern technology, showcasing a collection of old alarm cords, which serve as a reminder of the past. He emphasized the upgrades are intended to enhance patient safety throughout the city’s healthcare facilities. Currently, two health houses have transitioned to the new system, with plans for two more to follow after the holiday season.

In the upcoming 2025 budget proposal, Korkunc outlined plans to allocate 205 million Norwegian kroner to ensure that all remaining municipal nursing homes lacking this system will receive the necessary upgrades. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to improve patient care and security within Oslo’s healthcare framework, where the modernized alarm system allows for quicker response times when assistance is needed.