Nursing is a demanding profession that requires focus, adaptability, and the right tools. Whether you’re a seasoned RN or an advanced practice provider, leveraging helpful nursing technology can significantly improve your workflow and enhance patient safety.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through 7 essential resources that have made a huge difference in my practice—from Hercules boost sheets to smart pumps and ASCOM alerts. These tools help streamline tasks, reduce physical strain, and ultimately allow us to provide better care.
1. Hercules Sheets: A Back-Saving Patient Boost System
If you’ve ever struggled to reposition a patient, you’ll love Hercules lift sheets. My favorite is the Drive Unit Boost Sheet, which attaches to a motor at the head of the bed. It helps elevate the patient safely—no tugging or straining required.
Why Nurses Love It:
- Reduces physical strain and injury risk.
- Washable versions clean well—even after blood or other stains.
- More efficient than traditional or disposable sheets (which tear easily and often don’t fit well).
🛏️ Pro tip: Washable Hercules sheets hold up better and fit beds more securely than disposable options.
2. E-ICU Cameras & Remote Documentation Support
At my current hospital, we use E-ICU camera systems—a total game-changer. These remote nurses can document critical events in real-time and act as a second set of eyes during emergencies.
How They Help:
- Real-time documentation during codes or intubations.
- Remote monitoring for subtle changes in patient status.
- Can place provider orders during emergencies, freeing bedside staff.
📋 Nurse win: During a rapid response, the E-ICU team handled all the documentation. I only had to chart my initial assessment afterward. Lifesaver!
3. In-Room Camera Monitor Systems for Safer Care
Having camera monitor systems in patient rooms allows nurses to monitor patients from just outside the door—especially valuable when you’re watching multiple patients.
Benefits:
- Lets staff visually monitor without entering the room.
- Helps others keep an eye on your patient when you’re on break.
- Adds a layer of accountability and reassurance.
📹 It’s a great way to keep patients safe even when you’re momentarily off the unit.
4. ASCOM Alerts with Hill-Rom Integration
ASCOM communication systems integrated with Hill-Rom beds take patient and nurse alerts to the next level. When a patient’s vitals fall outside of parameters, you get an instant alert on your ASCOM device—no guesswork involved.
What You Can Do:
- Get vital sign alerts and call light notifications in real-time.
- Send or receive help requests like “Turn Assist” or “Sign Off.”
- Get notifications instantly when your patient’s bed alarms are going off.
- Stay informed even when you’re off the floor.
📲 Bonus: Reduces alarm fatigue and ensures faster response times.
5. Alaris Smart Pumps Synced to Epic
When it comes to accurate intake and output (I/O tracking), Alaris smart pumps synced to Epic are essential. Every adjustment—pauses, rate changes, titrations—is automatically recorded and easy to verify.
Why It Matters:
- Eliminates manual charting or pump photo-checking.
- Saves time and reduces documentation errors.
- Improves accuracy in your Medication Administration Record (MAR).
💉 Key feature: All changes appear under Infusion Verify, simplifying your workflow during chaotic shifts.
6. Advanced Practice Providers on the Unit
Having APPs (Advanced Practice Providers) on the unit is an underrated blessing—especially during night shifts.
Why They’re Invaluable:
- No need to page a provider at 3 AM for Tylenol.
- Easy to request quick bedside evaluations.
- Adds a second clinical opinion in urgent or uncertain situations.
🩺 Reality check: Having an APP nearby improves patient care and saves time during critical situations.
7. Night Shift Food Options: Keep the Crew Fueled
One of the most frustrating things about working nights? No food after 6 PM. Hospitals that provide late-night meal options are doing it right.
🍔 Why it matters:
- Boosts morale and energy.
- Offers a break from vending machine meals.
- Sometimes, all you need is a fountain drink to reset.
🌙 Hospitals that support night shift staff with food earn major points.
Final Thoughts: These Tools Elevate Patient Care and Nurse Well-Being
Every hospital has its strengths and weaknesses, but once you’ve worked with high-performing nursing tools and systems, their absence is noticeable. From technology that enhances documentation to resources that reduce physical strain, these tools don’t just help you—they improve care for your patients, too.
Now it’s your turn:
💬 What tools or resources do you love using at your hospital?
Drop your favorites in the comments—I’d love to hear what’s working for you and your team!