Cell phones, Bluetoothing now (mostly) legal at the hospital

NEWS RELEASE SAULT AREA HOSPITAL

******************** Patients and visitors at Sault Area Hospital (SAH) are now allowed to use their cell phones and other handheld wireless devices when they visit.

SAH is following other healthcare facilities in the province to change its longstanding protocol that previously banned the use of these wireless communication devices.

"The change in practice is a great opportunity to enhance the patient and family experience at SAH," says Dr. Peter Apostle, Physician Leader for the project. "For example, it allows visitors to immediately connect with friends and family about a patient's condition or progress following surgery."

Patients, family member and visitors are now able to safely use cell phones and other wireless handheld digital communication devices in areas such as cafeterias, main lobbies and waiting areas at both sites.

The use of cell phones is allowed in most area of the hospital except those that are posted as prohibited. Wireless devices continue to be prohibited on all patient care units including the Emergency Department and Intensive Care Unit.

To protect patient confidentiality, patients and visitors are not allowed to take still of motion photographs with their cell phones.

"We're delighted that enhanced technology and updated research demonstrates that these devices can now be used within a hospital environment, and pleased that SAH has taken the pro-active initiative to change a longstanding practice," notes Dr. Apostle.

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