Family View screens make waiting easier with live surgery tracking

On January 10, the surgical teams at the MGH and the RVH launched a new system called "Family View" a tracking system which keeps patients' families informed about their loved one's surgery in real time. This project was made possible through the collaboration of multiple teams; Operating Room, Post Anesthesia Care Unit, Nurse Educators, OPERA system administrators, Admitting, Information Services and Building Services. Upon registration, each patient is given a number, which is shared with the family or friends in the waiting room. Using this number, families can track their loved one’s progress through the various stages of their surgery via a live feed displayed on plasma screens.  

• Orange: Registered
• Blue: Preparing for procedure
• Purple: In OR
• Green: In recovery
• Light green: Discharged from recovery room 

The real-time progress bar keeps families informed which means they don’t need to interrupt staff to get an update during what can often be a very long day.  Most importantly, the project alleviates concerns and anxiety for family members. The system is currently available in the following locations: 

• Montreal General Hospital waiting room on D10-117
• Royal Victoria Hospital waiting room on C03.7055 

This initiative is a step forward in improving the patient and family experience, communication and overall hospital efficiency. Congratulations to all teams involved in making Family View a success!