Resources

Aidcall https://www.aidcall.co.uk/on-demand/user-guides/nurse-call-system/

InterCall https://www.sensorium.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/600_700_Install_4_70.pdf

C-tec https://c-tec.com/info/instruction-manuals/

SAS https://www.sasuk.com/sdm_downloads/

Scope https://www.scope-uk.com/technical-support.html

Astra https://www.mbelect.co.uk/pager.htm

Austin communications https://wirelesscallsystems.co.uk/products/

HTM 08-03 Guidelines https://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/HTM_08-03.pdf

EMS Iris+ https://emsgroup.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/MK192-Iris-Installation-Guide-Issue-11.pdf

UK Regulations

Patient call systems in the UK must adhere to strict safety standards, primarily Health Technical Memorandum (HTM) 08-03: Bedhead Services. This regulation dictates how nurse call installation is conducted, ensuring calls for assistance are raised, signalled, and managed effectively in NHS and healthcare environments. These systems must be reliable and regularly tested, often featuring staff attack buttons, ensuring compliance with CQC standards for patient care and safety. Key Regulatory and Compliance Standards:

HTM 08-03 (Bedhead Services): Sets the standard for nurse call system design, ensuring alarms are clearly signalled and managed.

Care Quality Commission (CQC) Standards: Requires that providers have effective call systems to ensure patient safety, as these systems are crucial for monitoring care quality.

Wireless Systems: Must comply with Category 1 radio technology standards to prevent interference and ensure safety in critical care.

Maintenance: A regular, documented nurse call maintenance schedule is essential for auditing purposes.

Fire Safety (BS5839-9): Refuge areas and associated call points must comply with British Standards for emergency communication.

VAT Relief: Emergency alarm systems for disabled users may qualify for zero-rated VAT.

Operational Requirements:

Systems should enable patients, residents, and visitors to alert staff immediately. For mental health settings, real-time location systems (RTLS) and personal, portable alarms for staff are recommended. All equipment, including used nurse call systems, should be regularly serviced by specialised contractors, particularly legacy systems, to ensure optimal functionality. Temporary nurse call systems may also be employed to meet immediate needs.