Healthcare technology is rapidly advancing and wireless connectivity is becoming increasingly vital in hospitals worldwide, including China. This case study explores the integration of wireless connectivity in temperature monitoring at Shanghai Kongjiang Hospital, a medical institution affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine. The focus is on the use of the Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer (TAT-2000 BT) and its role in enhancing patient care and operational efficiency. 

Background:  Shanghai Kongjiang Hospital 

Shanghai Kongjiang Hospital, established in June 1949, is a Grade B class-Ⅲ general hospital with a robust infrastructure that includes 29 clinical departments and 805 beds. It serves more than 2.3 million people annually, handling 1.9 million outpatient and emergency visits. The hospital is known for its commitment to quality, safety, and continuous innovation in healthcare delivery. 

The Training Session 

Recently, a training session at Shanghai Kongjiang Hospital highlighted the importance of precise and efficient temperature monitoring. The session, attended by eleven nurses, introduced the Exergen TAT-2000 BT thermometer. This device is equipped with Bluetooth technology, enabling it to wirelessly transmit temperature data to a connected screen or app.  

Demonstrating the Exergen TAT-2000 Bluetooth 

During the training, Annie Shen, an Exergen marketing manager in China, demonstrated the Exergen TAT-2000 BT’s accuracy and ease of use. Accuracy and consistency when measuring a patient’s temperature is crucial. During the demonstration one nurse’s temperature was measured several times and all readings were identical, eliciting “wow” reactions from the attendees. The nurses appreciated the device’s consistency, a critical factor in clinical settings where accurate data is paramount. 

The device’s wireless connectivity was also showcased. By connecting the thermometer to a PDA via Bluetooth, the temperature reading was displayed instantly on the screen. A nurse commented on how this technology could save time and improve work efficiency by streamlining the measurement and recording process.  

The Role of Wireless Connectivity 

The integration of wireless connectivity in medical devices like the TAT-2000 BT is becoming a significant unique selling proposition (USP) in healthcare, especially in China. Shanghai Kongjiang Hospital’s experience highlights several key benefits: 

• Efficiency: Wireless connectivity reduces the time needed to document patient data manually. Automated data transfer minimizes errors and allows healthcare professionals to focus more on patient care. 

• Accuracy: Consistent and precise temperature readings ensure better patient monitoring and more informed clinical decisions. 

• Convenience: Wireless devices offer greater mobility and flexibility within the hospital, facilitating seamless integration into existing workflows. 

• Temperature data is digitally available: As soon as a patient’s temperature is measured, the temperature data becomes available digitally, so that other applications can be performed on it.  

Broader Implications for Healthcare 

The success of wireless temperature monitoring at Shanghai Kongjiang Hospital reflects a broader trend in healthcare. Hospitals worldwide are increasingly adopting wireless technologies to enhance patient care and operational efficiency. Exergen’s connectivity strategy, which includes both wired and wireless solutions, is paving the way for more connected healthcare environments. Exergen’s product portfolio includes the TAT-5000S Connected. This thermometer is integrated into well-known Vital Signs Monitors. The TAT-2000 BT is now available as well, with more advanced models on the way.  

The integration of wireless connectivity in hospital temperature monitoring, as demonstrated by the Exergen TAT-2000 BT at Shanghai Kongjiang Hospital, is transforming healthcare delivery. This case study underscores the growing importance of reliable and accurate wireless medical devices in hospitals across China and globally. As connectivity becomes a critical component of medical technology, healthcare institutions must continue to embrace these innovations to improve patient care and operational efficiency. Regular temperature monitoring with devices like the Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer is crucial, ensuring that healthcare providers have the accurate data they need to deliver the best possible care. 

 EXERGEN P/N 850157, Rev 1