Virtual ‘robot’ ward rounds: older trauma patients’ perceptions of inpatient virtual consultations

Abstract

Use of telemedicine has increased following the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic; however, much of the literature is based in outpatient settings. There have also historically been concerns about the efficacy of telemedicine in older patients. This service evaluation implemented virtual consultations into the ward-round setting, using a 'robot' device. Twenty-six older patients undergoing major trauma surgery were surveyed, with all reporting very high satisfaction rates. Ninety percent of patients were 'very happy' or 'happy' with the remote consultations, and 83% found the technology 'easy' or 'very easy' to use. This evaluation is limited by small participant numbers and did not research health outcomes following virtual consultations. To conclude, the use of 'robots' to deliver remote consultations to patients is feasible and welcomed by most patients.