In hospital settings it is important to understand different levels of monitoring and treatment. Today in this blog we will discuss the two important types of care, progressive care, and telemetry care. Both are important for closely monitoring patients, but each has its own purpose. Let us better understand the difference between two, when and why each one is used?
PCU and Telemetry Care
Progressive care:
It is the type of care that is given to patients who need more monitoring than surgical floor patients but are not as critical as ICU (Intensive Care Unit) patients. Progressive Care Units (PCU) are also known as Step down units.
Role of PCU Nurses:
- Continuous vital signs monitoring of the patient.
- Administering medications to the patient’s antibiotics, pain management etc.
- Educating patients and their families about the treatments and procedures.
- Coordinating with other healthcare professionals to meet patient’s needs.
Telemetry care:
The word tele means “remote” and matron mean “measure.” Telemetry care is the type of care that is used for patients with heart conditions or have risk to develop cardiac issues. The patients wear portable devices so nurses can track their heart rate and rhythm and keep a close eye on patient’s heart functions remotely. Telemetry unit is the department in hospitals that monitors patient’s vital signs electronically.
Role of Telemetry Nurses:
- Continuous cardiac monitoring ECG (Electrocardiogram) telemetry devices.
- Assessment and monitoring vital signs.
- Administering medications related to heart conditions.
- Responding to cardiac emergencies.
- Difference between Progressive Care vs Telemetry Care
Focus of care:
In PCU there is general health monitoring whereas in telemetry care there is continuous cardiac monitoring.
Patient condition:
In progressive care patients are recovering from surgery, trauma, or acute illness whereas in telemetry care the patients have heart related issues.
Level of monitoring:
In progressive care unit patients, there is continuous monitoring of vital signs such as respiratory, cardiac, and neurological function whereas in telemetry care units there is continuous monitoring of patient’s heart rates and rhythm.
Staffing:
In PCU we see doctors, nurses, and nurse practitioners. In telemetry care units the staff consists of nurses, cardiac specialists, and technicians.
Equipment:
The progressive care unit equipment’s consists of pulse oximeters, oxygen, IVs, blood pressure cuffs etc. In telemetry care units the equipment’s are telemetry units, ECG monitors, oxygen saturation devices etc.
When is Progressive Care used?
Progressive care is used for patients who need continuous monitoring but not as intensive as the patients in ICU (Intensive Care Unit). For example,
- Patients who have gone under surgery.
- Patients with acute illnesses such as COPD.
- Patients who are recovering from trauma.
When is Telemetry Care used?
- Telemetry care is used for patients who need continuous heart monitoring. For example,
- Patients experiencing abnormal heart rhythms known as Arrhythmias.
- Patients with heart diseases or past cardiac problems.
- Can patients transition from Progressive Care to Telemetry Care?
- Yes, sometimes Patients can transition from Progressive Care to Telemetry Care depending on their health condition.
Conclusion
In conclusion both progressive care and telemetry care plays important role in ensuring that patients receive best level of care. It focuses on patients who are recovering from surgery or trauma whereas telemetry care focuses on patients recovering from cardiac conditions. Both types of care ensure that the patients receive the appropriate care and treatment, promoting better outcomes and safer recovery processes.
If you are a travel nurse or want to become one, sign up now on Skill Gigs! Where talent meets opportunity. Bid on the jobs that suit your needs and interest. Happy travel nursing.
