In this blog, we will explore how a Nurse Call System operates and how it can be beneficial in healthcare settings.

What is a Nurse Call System?

A Nurse Call System is a communication platform that allows patients/residents to notify healthcare providers when they need help. Patients use a wall-mounted device to alert a nurse or other medical staff that they require assistance. These systems often include additional features like visual or audio alerts, mobile notifications, and even integration with electronic health records (EHRs).

How Does This System Work?

First, the patient/resident initiates a call by pulling a cord. This cord is wall-mounted in rooms, bathrooms, and common areas.

Signal Transmission: Once the cord sends the initial signal, the receiver picks up this signal and sends it to the appropriate Nurse Call Station. Each device is labeled with a unique ID to identify the location where the request was initiated. Because of this, staff knows exactly where the signal is coming from. All signals reach the receiver even in multi-story buildings ensuring that patients/residents get the help they need quickly. These alerts come in a variety of formats, such as light indicators, sounds, or even direct messages on a nurse’s mobile device.

Response and Resolution: Once the medical staff receives the alert, they will respond to the patient’s needs by physically visiting the patient or, in some cases, offering assistance remotely via a video. Some systems are integrated with healthcare records, so the nurse’s actions and the resolution of the request are automatically logged. This can be helpful for monitoring patient care and for compliance with health regulations.

Why is This System Beneficial?

A Nurse Call System is more than just a convenience for patients and healthcare providers. This system is a vital tool that enhances patient care and operational efficiency.

Here are the top reasons why Nurse Call Systems are beneficial:

1. Improved Patient Care

The primary benefit of a nurse call system is that it helps ensure that patients’ needs are met promptly. When patients can easily communicate with nurses or medical staff, it helps prevent unnecessary delays in care, addressing issues before they escalate. Whether a patient requires medication, assistance with mobility, or a check-up, this system ensures that their request is communicated quickly.

2. Increased Staff Efficiency

By streamlining communication, a Nurse Call System helps healthcare providers prioritize tasks and allocate their time more efficiently. The system allows nurses to receive alerts and quickly assess which patients need attention, leading to faster response times. In busy hospitals where nurses are responsible for multiple patients, a call system ensures that no one is neglected.

3. Enhanced Safety In Critical Settings

In critical care settings, response time is crucial. A Nurse Call System can be equipped with additional features such as emergency alerts for situations like patient falls or cardiac events. The system can immediately notify the closest staff members of an emergency, enabling faster intervention. Because of this process, it helps reduce the risk of adverse events and improve patient safety.

4. Patient Satisfaction

When patients can easily request help and receive a timely response, their overall satisfaction with care increases. This system fosters a sense of security and comfort for patients, knowing that assistance is reliable This contributes to a better patient experience, which is critical for hospitals looking to improve patient outcomes and ratings.

5. Compliance with Healthcare Regulations

Healthcare facilities are often required to meet specific standards and regulations concerning patient/resident care. By documenting when patients request help and how the request is handled, the system can support compliance with health and safety regulations. It also provides a record of response times, ensuring that patients are receiving care within the required timeframes.

A nurse call system is an essential tool for ensuring that communication in healthcare settings is effective, timely, and organized. By facilitating better communication between patients and healthcare providers, these systems improve the overall quality of patient care. Whether in a hospital, nursing home, or long-term care facility, nurse call systems help foster a healthier, more responsive environment.

Contact us at 773-388-1208 or info@vintechnology.com with your questions or to request a quote.

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Earlier this month, ABC news reported the case of Danielle Cruz, a Chicago homeowner who was remodeling her vacant home when a stranger moved into the property. When she realized this was happening, she called the police.  However, when police arrived, they couldn’t do anything after the “trespasser” showed them a signed lease.

Why couldn’t the police remove the woman from Danielle’s home?

Although trespassing is a crime in Illinois, police officers have no way of knowing whether the person in question is a trespasser or a tenant. Even when it’s up to their discretion to remove the person, they often refuse. This is because they don’t want to be liable if the homeowner is simply trying to skip the eviction process.

In these cases, Police will likely handle this as a civil matter rather than criminal if no other crimes are taking place. Nonetheless, it’s still important to report the incident to the police. Officers are considered sworn witnesses and their statements are documented in official reports.

What is a Squatter?

“A squatter is someone who trespasses on a piece of property they do not own and begins living there without permission. They do not have any legal claim to the property and are not tenants, but after a period of time they may gain squatter’s rights.”

Nonetheless, the process to remove a squatter is usually lengthy.  As mentioned above, the property owner must file an action in court for civil trespassing and wait for a court date where a judge will decide on the case. This is why it’s far easier to prevent your vacant property from being occupied by trespassers in the first place than to remove a squatter.

When a trespasser becomes a Squatter

In the case of Danielle Cruz, by the time she realized that there was someone living in her home, the squatter had already changed the locks. This means that at least several days had passed since the intruder had settled in Danielle’s home. Furthermore, “this unaccounted time” makes it more difficult for police to treat this incident as trespassing.

In retrospect, the only “right timing” to prevent a squatter from settling into your home, it’s to be alerted as the incident is occurring.

Can an alarm system prevent trespassers from settling into your vacant property?

Burglar Alarm 

Burglar alarms are monitored by a local station 24/7. Whether you are at home or away, the system will alert you and the local monitoring station when someone or something ‘is in the zone’ and has activated the motion sensors. The monitoring station will then call you to verify a false alarm or to dispatch the authorities immediately if needed.

This system is best for…homes.

Benefits:

• Protect your investment from Squatters or intruders.
• Manage and monitor your alarm from your phone remotely from an app. Additional smart home devices can also be managed this way.
• Discounts on home insurance.

Video Verification Alarm

A Virtual Guard Verification Alarm uses high-tech cameras with live video monitoring to provide continuous feedback. Properties are monitored 24/7 and when the system’s camera detects motion, a signal is sent to a live operator. The operator will ask the person to leave through an onsite speaker. A local police officer or a security guard will be immediately dispatched if the intruder doesn’t leave.

This system is best for… construction sites, commercial buildings, auto dealerships, warehouses, schools, and any places with open/wide areas.

Benefits:

• No power? No phone line? No internet? A Video Verification Alarm provides security even with the ‘three no’s and under extreme weather conditions.
• Your property is protected soon after your account is activated. This process takes less than 24 hours and there isn’t training involved to operate the system.
• In addition to the camera, Virtual Guard’s sensor can also be triggered and an automated voice message will ask the trespasser to leave the area.

Removing a squatter from your property can be a lengthy process that can cost thousands of dollars for a property owner. The best plan is to get alerted as soon as a trespasser enters the property. An alarm system and support from a local monitoring company can work together to protect your investments.  Catching an intruder in time will prevent them from settling into your home.

The post How to Protect your Property from Squatters appeared first on VinTech Systems.

The energy profile of your apartment, home, or business is always unique. Factors like the square feet of your space, the number of appliances and how often you used them, all contribute to the cost of your electric bill. However, this doesn’t mean that there aren’t ways to reduce this cost. The use of smart technology and daily changes can both make a difference on your pocket and the environment.

What is a smart thermostat?

A smart thermostat is a small device that can be controlled remotely with an App or any other internet connected device. It allows you to schedule your settings to predetermined temperatures and manage the device even when you’re not onsite.  A smart thermostat can also be connected to an existing alarm system and be controlled from the alarm panel.

How to choose a smart thermostat

There are many smart thermostats brands to choose from. If you already have an alarm system in place, the best option is to contact your security company and inquire about their recommendations. Most of the time, they will know which brands and models are compatible with your system. Additionally, it will save you the time of searching for this information yourself.

If you don’t already work with a security company, this article Best Smart Thermostats of 2021 from the Consumer Reports website might be helpful. The report includes brands like Ecobee, Honeywell, and Google Nest.

How to Manage your Home Device for Best Results

If your main goal is to save money on your home electric bill, you’re on the right track. A smart thermostat will help you reduce energy costs by giving you flexibility to manage your device from an app. The settings have a schedule function that you can use to set the thermostat at a predetermined temperature during different times of the day. Controlling your smart thermostat from the app also means that you don’t have to be at home to manage it. This can be especially helpful on days when the weather in Chicago is expected to reach extreme conditions.

Save 10% on your home electric bill by following this rule

If you want to decrease your electric bill by up to 10%, you’ll need to adjust the thermostat temperature to 5 -7 degrees of your normal temperature setting for 8 hours a day. For example, if during the summer you usually set it up at 70 degrees, you can increase it to 75 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. when you’re usually at work or during the weekends when you’re out and about. Once you’re getting ready to go back home, decrease the temperature via the app and arrive to a cool home.

Additionally, since many people have been working from home during the pandemic and expect to continue to do so, one better option is to look for smart thermostats with multiple zones capabilities. This system allows you to set up different temperatures in different zones of your home; which is an ideal fit when you’re spending many hours in your home office.

How to Maximize the Use of a Thermostat in a Commercial Space

Commercial spaces require the same if not more attention to detail than residential homes. Take for example one of our long-time clients who owns a restaurant in the Edgewater neighborhood. They contacted VinTech Systems to install smart thermostats after experiencing a surge of 30% on their electric bill. The restaurant had recently reopened their indoor dining area, but it was still an elevated shift for such a short term. Upon discussing the change with the restaurant’s manager, the owner realized that most employees had forgotten to turn down the room temperature in the kitchen and front area, and before closing the restaurant at night.

In the past, VinTech had offered smart thermostat technology, but at that time, the restaurant owner didn’t think it was necessary as she was often on site. Fortunately, VinTech had already upgraded their Honeywell alarm to be compatible with the 4G network. This meant that if they now decided to install a smart thermostat, they could use a system of the same brand and simply connect it to their existing alarm system.

The restaurant owner now manages the thermostat remotely and immediately saw a decrease of 15% in their electric bill the following month after installation..

What additional steps can you take to reduce your electric bill?

In addition to installing a smart thermostat, we have found these simple tasks to be effective to reduce energy costs:

1. Turn off appliances when not in use to extend their life and decrease the cost of replacements. Unplugging also helps and you can reduce the time dedicated to this task by using smart power strips.
2. Switch your lightbulbs to LEADs. They have a longer life and will save up to 80% more energy.
3. Install efficient showerheads. They don’t only reduce the cost of energy but help by filtrating water.

Final Thoughts

Installing smart thermostats at your home or business can help decrease your electric bill and save you time when you use the schedule settings to set up predetermined temperatures. If you are unsure about how to start as there’re so many options out there, call us today at 773-388-1208. We are here to answer any questions.

The post Can a Smart Thermostat Save you Money? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Here is how.

Receive a Discount on Insurance Premiums

Many insurance companies provide a discount on insurance premiums if the property has a security system in place. In a way, they are providing an incentive for theft protection and the possibility of reducing the number of claims. This is a win-win situation for a property owner. Not only will you get an initial discount but if your claims decrease, you will also keep premiums from rising.

If you are unsure about the requirements needed to get a discount, talk to your insurance provider to find more information. Many require a certificate of installation to verify that a security system has been installed in your property. If this is the case, the company that installed your system can provide this for you. Currently, VinTech Systems provides certificates of installation for burglar alarms only. Our clients for which we have installed alarm systems and have a current monitoring service can request a certificate.

Resolve a Slip and Fall Claim

According to the National Safety Council, falls accounted for more than 8 million injuries in 2019. To put it into perspective, 8 million is a lot when the City of Chicago reported to have 2.7 million residents in that same year. Moreover, more than 39,000 of these incidents resulted in deaths. This is why the possibility of an incident like this happening in your property should be taken seriously.

A slip and fall claim cannot only cost you thousands of dollars but it can also mean serious legal problems. This is where a high definition security camera can be helpful. Footage from a camera can help you dispute a false slip and fall claim. It can clear you from liability and even save you from receiving a fine or sentence.

Reduce or Replace Security Personnel

A security system might seem like a high investment at the beginning. Especially when you are trying to decide which system(s) are best for your property. However, if you already have security personnel in your building, those two or three salaries a year will probably add to a much larger sum after a couple of years. Additionally, unlike security guards, a security system can monitor 24hr/7.

A Security Camera System is Always Recording

For example, a high-definition security camera records motion and automatically stores footage. In case of an incident, this footage can be used for evidence. Nonetheless, some camera systems might have a storage limit. One of the factors that affect video storage is whether the camera is focused on high or low traffic areas.  This is why it’s important to download and save footage as soon as an incident happens. VinTech Systems takes pride in designing systems that work with the needs of our clients to make sure their footage requirements are met.

A second example is access control. This system can help you restrict who has access to your property and at which times. For example, office employees can be set up to have access to the front entrance of the building from 6 a.m. to  6 p.m., cleaning personnel from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., and overnight security guards from 11 p.m. – 6 a.m. As precise as you want it to be, access control allows you to control who accesses your property. You will hold the “key” to your success in reducing incidents and losses in your property which in return will save you money. And although security systems cannot completely replace security personnel, they can effectively monitor activity and provide time stamped evidence.

Reduce Wear and Tear on Smart Devices and Cost of Energy Bills

The latest technology in security systems allows you to connect smart devices to remotely control lights, thermostats, and other appliances from an app. Turning off these appliances when not in use, can certainly reduce the cost of your electric bill. Furthermore, this capability can also extend the life of your devices. This means that more time will pass before you have to replace them.

The most important thing about having a security system in your property is to give you peace of mind but that doesn’t mean you won’t appreciate the additional perks. From saving time and resources to preventing losses, the right security system can save you money in more than one way. With these simple steps, you also make sure that you are getting the best return for your investment and help preserve valuable resources for future generations.

The post 4 Ways Security Systems Can Save you Money appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Property management companies and condo associations have their own rules for tenants. But what happens when a tenant’s guest damages the property or is caught engaging in inappropriate behavior?

A property manager at a condominium building was surprised to see footage from their elevator. A tenant’s guest had approached the property, was buzzed in by a resident, and used the elevator as a bathroom. The property manager reported that the suspect, accompanied by three other individuals, looked straight at the camera and smile.

Is it illegal to urinate in an elevator?

Inappropriate behavior while using the elevator is more common that we thought. With only doing a quick search online, we were able to find several articles and video footage of people using the elevator to urinate. Many others also engaged in other types of unusual activity. Are people not aware that public urination is illegal in all US states? We doubt it. Even T.V. shows have scenes like this and they all end up with the characters getting arrested.  Some others are even forced to be registered as sex offenders. It isn’t funny after all, is it?

How can a camera system protect your property from vandalism?

Footage from high definition security cameras can help a landlord or property manager identify the person who has damaged or vandalize the property. In the case mentioned above, security cameras were a crucial tool. The property manager was only able to have proof of what had occurred in the elevator because of the cameras that were recording.

Nonetheless, the video footage didn’t go to the police right away but instead, the incident was discussed with the unit owner. The video footage showed that these four individuals had entered that particular unit. The owner then received a letter from the condo associations’ attorney with a fine of $1,000 dollars. Of course, the tenants are responsible for paying this fine.

What if the tenant doesn’t want to pay the fine?

Tenants are obligated to pay the repair costs or fines for property damage. This is because most lease agreements specify that a tenant is responsible for any damages to the property. Damage can be caused by themselves and their guests. The tenant can discuss the incident with their guest and try to come to an agreement. Nonetheless, the fine is ultimately the tenant’s responsibility.

Not paying the repair costs or fine means the tenant would be breaking their agreement with their condo association. The property manager can then decide if they should ask the tenant to leave or provide footage of the incident to police. The suspect might not be forced to pay for damages but they can be charged with public urination or in some cases, indecent exposure.

This is what the Chicago Codified Ordinance 8-4-081 states about public urination:

“No person shall urinate or defecate on the public way, or on any outdoor public property, or on any outdoor private property. Except as otherwise provided in subsection (b), any person who violates this section shall be fined not less than $100.00 nor more than $500.00. Or shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than five days nor more than ten days or by both such fine and imprisonment.”

So even though an elevator is indoors, it is also a public area. As mentioned earlier, if a person is charged and later convicted of indecent exposure, they not only have to pay a fine but they can be sentenced to prison time. In many cases, they will also be asked to do community service or register as sex offenders.

Will renters insurance cover the cost of property damage from a guest?

Most renter’s insurance don’t cover property damage caused by guests. This is why Condo Associations and landlords do well by protecting themselves with security cameras and specific types of property insurance. Additionally, having a detailed agreement between landlords and renters can save property managers from many headaches. Condo Associations are there to protect you but also have the freedom to have specific rules and fines to protect their properties. Security systems and detailed agreements are very important because as mentioned above you cannot rely solely on insurances. These often don’t cover and infinity set of events. One problem with these insurances is that these don’t cover guests and the other is that they have limitations.

Security cameras are an effective way to monitor suspicious activity. Monitoring your building regularly can help you prevent or minimize damage to your property. Sometimes, suspects won’t even bother hiding but when you have video evidence, it will be easier to be protected.

The post Why is a camera system an important asset to condo and multi-family buildings? appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Last year, VinTech systems worked with the Chicago Chinatown Chamber of Commerce to increase security in their neighborhood. Our company installed 18  high definition cameras. We had positive results although the the project was challenging. As a result, this project was featured in the latest issue of Security Management. This magazine is published by ASIS International, a leader in the security industry. The article described the approach we took and the results of the installation. Our project draw attention because the process is an example to follow to achieve a successful installation.

Why Hire Experts

ASIS International is a worldwide community of security expertise. Their members have access to resources to help them stay up to date in the security industry. We are proud to be a member!

Hiring experts makes a difference. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. We often hear prospect clients complain about the company who installed their system.  They become frustrated after the company disappears. Neglecting a security system is like not having one at all. Professional companies can help you through the years to maintain your system working properly. Consider it a red flag if a company installs the system and disappears. Professional companies should follow a process and be a reliable.

The Planning Process

The Chinatown  project is a good example of our work process. We planned meetings and choose the right type of equipment. Moreover, we took the time to select appropriate key locations to install each camera. Once approved, we made sure we provided an estimated timeline to complete the project. After installation, we did our best to deliver a complete experience. VinTech systems provided training to account managers. We also helped our clients download the app. The remote access app enables them to access their security system remotely.

Lastly, we conduct regular maintenance twice a year to assure the system keeps working operating properly.  New management or employees sometimes call us to repeat training. We highly recommended regular training of new users.

What our Clients Say

Simon Leung, operation manager of the Chicago Chinatown Chamber of Commerce, says he is happy with the way the system operates. The security patrol has access to the cameras remotely. He monitors their system from monitors, iPads, and mobile devices. In addition, they can download footage from any of the cameras and provide it to Chicago police if needed.

The Chinatown neighborhood has been a long-time popular community to visit in Chicago. Their restaurants, architecture, and history are loved by both Chicagoan and tourists. We are delighted to see that more clients are achieving results that are improving the safety of our communities.

The post The Aftermath of The Chicago Chinatown Case Study appeared first on VinTech Systems.

The following 5 questions were asked both in the 2011 workshop and the 2016 survey. Take a look at what they have to say.

When asked,

1. How did you break in?

In the survey, 42% said through an unlocked window and 38% said through an unlocked door. In the workshop, they confessed to using back doors, unlocked front doors or windows.

2. Where did you first look for valuables?

In the survey, as much as 75.4% said they go straight to the bedrooms, with both sources said they first look in the master bedroom.

3. Are Burglar alarms or surveillance cameras a deterrent?

As much as 42.1 % said they would leave immediately if they discovered a home or apartment with an alarm system. Cameras also proved effective at 36.8%. In the workshop, answers were mixed  Most said, “I don’t like alarms.”  Others said the alarm would limit the amount of time they’d spend in your home.

4. Would you break into a house or apartment if there was a dog inside?

In the survey, almost 37% said yes. They use food to distract dogs while they commit the crime. In the workshop, their answers were mixed. Some said “yes, I don’t like big dogs”. Others said it depended on the breed. But most said it wasn’t a problem.

5. What is the number one advice to prevent being a target?

In the workshop, 5 out of the 8 men, said nosy neighbors! One burglar said he hated being watched by the people sitting on their porch, drinking their morning coffee as he was walking up and down the street surveying homes.In the survey, burglars said there is nothing more effective than a neighborhood watch. Yes, it may be difficult to believe that burglars just walk into homes with minimal effort. But after all, burglary is a crime of opportunity.

A convicted burglar acknowledged that he looks for activity inside the home, so people are better off leaving a radio or T.V. on. rather than using light timers. Another man from the survey mentioned that placing all valuables in one place makes it easy for thieves. Therefore, it is best to arrange several hiding places to hide valuables. If a burglar finds one of the stash spots, he might be happy enough to stop looking or not be clever enough to find all the hiding spots and so maybe he won’t get away with all your valuables. Taking these measures into consideration can help us outpace this criminal activity.

To view the complete 4-part series click here.

To read more questions and answers from the workshop read part 1 and part 2 of our blog.

The post 5 Odd Tips from Convicted Burglars appeared first on VinTech Systems.

Criminals target commercial lots often. They know these properties store high-cost materials. The Chartered Institute’s survey found that 92% of their respondents in the construction industry suffer theft on a regular basis. Nonetheless, security costs often influence their budgets. However, balance between cost and effectiveness can be achieved. Its still possible for property owners to secure large spaces without breaking the bank.

VinTech systems believes virtual guard is the best balance between service and cost. Let’s discuss the top five questions about virtual guard. 

Virtual Guard covers open areas.

In the past, we installed virtual guard in construction sites, commercial buildings, and auto dealerships. Additionally, we recommend the service to warehouses, schools, and any places with open areas. There is no area too big or too wide!

Virtual Guard covers wide areas.

Virtual guard covers wide areas. No area is too big or too wide! Additionally, the camera system detects motion. The system then sends signals to a live operator. Accordingly, there is no need to patrol the area or hire someone to monitor the system.

Service options

There are two main options. First, when motion is detected, a signal is sent to an operator who will then proceed to check the video. If there is an intruder, the operator will ask the person to leave through an onsite speaker. Second, when the sensor is triggered, an automated voice message will ask the individual to leave the area. In both cases, a local police officer or a security guard will be immediately dispatched if the intruder doesn’t leave.

Cost difference between a security guard a virtual guard.

Security guards receive a salary between $25,000-30,000 a year in Illinois. The cost to hire three security guards to cover a 24 hour shift will amount to $75,000-$90,000 dollars per year. In comparison, the cost to install virtual guard and hire security guards, virtual guard will be much less. 

How soon after installation will I be protected?

Your property is protected soon after your account is activated. This process takes less than 24 hours. Additionally, there isn’t training involved to operate the system.

Does virtual guard sound like a good fit for your property? Schedule a FREE consultation today! Contact VinTech Systems at info@vintechnology.net or 773-388-1208.

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