A Complete Guide on How to use Posey alarm?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 36 million falls are reported among older adults each year, making fall prevention devices essential for safe aging. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step tutorial on how to use Posey alarm systems, empowering caregivers with the knowledge needed to ensure continuous patient safety.

Quick Summary

To operate a Posey alarm, you must first install the batteries and connect a compatible sensor pad or cord. After powering on the unit and adjusting settings like volume and tone, place the sensor under the patient, or attach the cord, to activate monitoring and receive alerts if they attempt to exit the bed or chair.

Key Points

• Initial Setup: Ensure you install fresh, matching batteries and properly connect the sensor before use.

• Sensor Placement: For pressure pads, place under the patient's weight-bearing area; for cords, securely attach the clip to clothing.

• Using Hold/Suspend: Use the temporary pause feature for patient transfers to avoid false alarms and ensure monitoring resumes automatically.

• Regular Testing: Always test the alarm and sensor functionality before leaving the patient unattended to confirm the system is active.

• Correct Volume and Mode: Adjust the alarm's tone and volume settings to be audible for staff but not startling for the patient.

• Troubleshooting: Address common issues like chirping (low battery) and false alarms (improper placement) to maintain reliability.

Understanding the Posey Alarm System

A Posey alarm is a crucial tool in a fall management program, designed to alert caregivers when a patient moves from a monitored position. These systems are widely used in home care, hospitals, and long-term care facilities to prevent falls, which can lead to serious injuries. The basic system consists of an alarm unit and a sensor, which can be a pressure-sensitive pad, a magnetic cord, or a self-releasing belt. Proper setup and consistent daily use are key to its effectiveness and to providing peace of mind for caregivers.

Initial Setup: From the Box to Bedside

Setting up your Posey alarm correctly is the first and most critical step. Different models may have slight variations, but the core process remains the same.

1. Insert Batteries

• Slide open the battery compartment, typically on the back of the unit, and insert new alkaline batteries (AA or AAA) of the same brand. A red ribbon can aid removal. Close the door securely. A low battery is indicated by a chirp every 15 seconds.

2. Connect the Sensor

• Plug the sensor cord (from a pad, magnet, or belt) into the "Sensor" jack on the alarm unit. For pad sensors, place the pad under the patient on the bed or chair, ensuring it's flat and the cord isn't pinched. For magnetic cords, attach the clip to the patient's clothing and the magnet to the alarm faceplate.

3. Adjust Settings (Mode, Tone, Volume)

• Access programming buttons, often under the battery door. Select your mode (Tone, Voice, or both) with the MODE button. Adjust tone and volume with TONE and VOLUME buttons for an audible yet non-startling alert.

Daily Operation: Activating and Monitoring

Once set up, daily use is simple but requires consistency.

1. Activating the Alarm

• Turn the power switch to "ON." With a sensor pad, the alarm shows active monitoring (e.g., green flashing light or a single beep) when the patient is on the pad. For magnetic cords, removing the magnet triggers the alarm.

2. Using the Hold/Suspend Feature

• To prevent false alarms during patient transfers, use the HOLD or SUSPEND button. A quick press activates a short pause (often 30 seconds), while a longer press provides an extended pause (often 5 minutes). A red light indicates paused monitoring, which resumes automatically.

3. Patient Repositioning

• Use the HOLD feature to reposition a patient on the sensor pad without setting off the alarm. Ensure the patient is correctly placed afterward and the green monitoring light is flashing.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Alarm chirps every 15 seconds	Low battery	Replace with four new alkaline batteries of the same brand.
Alarm sounds when sensor not activated	Sensor not properly connected or failsafe	Ensure sensor is plugged in; failsafe activates if no sensor is plugged in.
False alarms	Improper pad placement or slight movement	Reposition the patient and pad. Consider increasing time delay if available.
Alarm fails to sound	Faulty sensor/unit or dead batteries	Test before each use. Replace sensor/unit if needed. Ensure fresh batteries are installed properly.
Alarm goes off during transfers	Hold/Suspend not used	Always press HOLD/SUSPEND before transferring the patient.

Advanced Features and Best Practices

• Voice Recording: Some models allow recording a custom message, which can be less alarming than a tone. Consult your manual for instructions.
• Nurse Call Integration: A nurse call cable can connect the alarm to a facility's nurse call system, sending alerts to the nursing station.
• Placement: Mount the alarm unit out of the patient's reach but where caregivers can easily see it and hear it.
• Consistent Testing: Test the alarm and sensor before each use to ensure it's functioning correctly.

Conclusion: Ensuring Continuous Safety

Knowing how to use Posey alarm systems effectively is crucial for caregivers. Proper setup, daily operation, and troubleshooting enhance patient safety and fall prevention. The alarm is a tool that works best when combined with attentive observation, a safe environment, and good caregiving practices. For detailed instructions specific to your model, refer to the original documentation, such as this guide for the Posey® KeepSafe® Deluxe Alarm. A correctly used Posey alarm is a valuable aid in providing secure care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean when my Posey alarm starts chirping?

A Posey alarm typically emits a chirping sound every 15 seconds to indicate that the batteries are low and need to be replaced. For optimal performance, always install four new alkaline batteries of the same brand at the same time.

How do I put the Posey alarm on hold when moving the patient?

To temporarily pause the alarm for patient transfers, press the HOLD/SUSPEND button on the alarm unit. A short press usually gives you a 30-second hold, while a longer press can activate an extended hold. The alarm will resume monitoring once weight is applied to the sensor again.

Can I use the Posey alarm with a nurse call system?

Yes, many Posey alarm models can be integrated with a facility's nurse call system. This requires a specific cable to connect the alarm unit to the wall jack. This sends an alert directly to the nursing station in addition to the local alarm.

How do I prevent false alarms with the Posey alarm pad?

False alarms are often caused by improper sensor pad placement or slight patient movements. Ensure the pad is placed correctly under the patient and lies completely flat. Adjusting the time delay setting on some models can also help reduce sensitivity to minor shifts.

What should I do if the Posey alarm does not sound when the patient moves?

If the alarm fails to sound, first check that the batteries are fresh and that the sensor is securely plugged in. Next, test the alarm by manually applying and removing pressure from the pad. If it still doesn't work, the sensor or alarm unit may need to be replaced.

Is it better to use the Posey alarm tone or voice recording?

The choice between tone and voice depends on the patient. A custom voice recording from a familiar voice can sometimes be less startling than a loud alarm tone. Some models offer both options or a combination of the two, giving you flexibility to choose what works best for your patient.

Where is the best place to mount the Posey alarm unit?

The alarm unit should be mounted out of the patient's reach, such as on a bed or chair bracket. It should be positioned so that the caregiver can easily see the indicator lights and hear the alarm, but the patient cannot tamper with it.