iPods to Educate Bariatric Patients

Link: http://www.informaticsnurse.com/forums/healthcare-healthcare-informatics-news/13980-ipods-educate-bariatric-patients.html

I couldn't find the complete article but it talks about how the use of the iPod provides education about the bariatric program. The iPod is loaded with audio and video clips, procedures, pre/post-operative preparation follow-up. Patients will have access to patient testimonials and surgeons answering frequently asked questions. The iPods feature diet and grocery shopping tips, recipes, exercise routines and motivational
messages. I think that with this program the patient will be better informed and will know more about the surgery. It also provides the opportunity of hearing testimonials about people going through the same situation and tips, routines and recipes that may help them accomplish maximum benefits. The article mentions that with success this type of program can be used in cancer, transplant and women's health program
patients. I think that is a great application for a device that you always have with you and that many people don't even know exists. Imagine what your iPod could do for you!

Here is a link with more information on Health Pods: http://www.telehealthltd.com/?page_id=30

80 Percent of Doctors Use Smartphone Apps Everyday

Link: http://www.healthcare-informatics.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=&nm=&type=news&mod=News&mid=9A02E3B96F2A415ABC72CB5F516B4C10&tier=3&nid=A036DBF4FB164D24B889643E5213CD4E

The "Apps, Doctors and Digital Devices" report looks at several studies in which they concluded that four out of five practicing physicians use smartphones, computer tablets, various medical devices and numerous apps in their  medical practice. As discussed in class we can see how the value of integrating the latest digital hardware and software into health care delivery has increased. Technology has now become a daily used tool in all branches of the health care system and facilitates physician's access to patient's medical information. I would prefer using this technology because it helps health care providers and may decrease errors, like trying to memorize all the dosage forms of medication, with the provided security and privacy protocols. Are you aware of how much your physician uses technology in his daily practice?

Wake Up Refreshed With A Brain-Monitoring Alarm Clock

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/236376.php

I found the above mentioned article and just wanted to share with you! The article talks about a novel idea of using a sort of headband with wireless electrodes that can monitor brain activity and will trigger its alarm during a specified time range but only when the patient's brain is in a more easily aroused state (Stage 1,2) rather than in deep sleep (Stage 3,4). They mention how they use the concept of that a person is woken from a night's sleep during an arousable period cycle, they will feel more refreshed than if they are woken during a deeper part of the sleep cycle. We all know that sleep is important for normal motor and cognitive functions as well as growth and rejuvenation of the immune, nervous, skeletal and muscular systems. If you have ever woken up naturally you can probably recognize that you feel more rested and alert. I think that that this technology helps us integrate what we know and what we have experienced to help us have a better, gentler and more refreshed awakening. What do the students who have problems waking up with alarm clocks think? 

Consumer Health Informatics and Patient Decisionmaking Study

http://www.ahrq.gov/research/rtisumm.htm

Here is a link that I found about a Consumer Health Informatics and Patient Decision-making Study. The study tries to identify, evaluate, and synthesize research on the effects of informatics tools and decision aids on patient decisions about medical screening and treatment. Some studies suggest that the use of information tools can increase patient knowledge of treatment alternatives and it has been shown that patients respond positively to these tools. Health information and medical care organizations are investing in the development and dissemination of health informatics tools to help patients and consumers make decisions about screening and treatment.                                                               

I believe that this study can help us better understand the effects that Consumer Health Informatics has on the healthcare system and in our patients. Many of the mentioned information tools are aimed towards patients to help provide choices about different ways to treat and manage health conditions.