Mobile medical computer carts are commonplace in healthcare facilities due to their ability to provide a streamlined workflow while achieving compliance with federal healthcare mandates. When mobile carts first began to appear in the industry, there was a learning curve in regards to the power supply.
Significant time was spent trying to maintain sufficient power and this was a contradiction to the pursuit of a more efficient workflow. Today, swappable battery packs have allowed for great progress and the continued use of mobile computer carts.
Battery-Powered Medical Carts
Although mobile medical carts have been used in the healthcare industry for around 20 years, one of the biggest drawbacks up until recently was the power supply. Today, mobile computer carts come equipped with battery-powered packs for streamlined use and ease of access. In addition to saved time, effort, and cost, battery-powered computer carts provide efficient record-keeping abilities as well as compliance with federal healthcare mandates.
Hot Swappable Battery Packs
Hot swap battery packs allow for the constant use of the mobile medical cart even while swapping out a dead battery for a fully charged one. Typically carts will come with two battery stations so that while one is being swapped, the second is providing backup power.
Medical devices require sufficient sources of power, reliable enough to last throughout a working shift. If attention from care providers to the patient is constantly being diverted to managing their workstation, lower standards of patient care are unfortunately the outcome. Hot-swappable battery pack options provide uninterrupted service for the highest level of care.
Lead Acid Batteries vs Lithium Battery
The difference between lead-acid batteries and lithium batteries is that while lead-acid batteries cost less money upfront, they do not last as long as a lithium battery. A lithium battery might be more expensive, but they are going to be a better investment because they will last much longer.
Dual power back batteries are newer and utilize lithium phosphate as opposed to a lithium-ion battery. This allows for up to 12 hours of run time and can almost guarantee that you will have enough power for an entire shift.
Final Thoughts
The healthcare industry today demands streamlined efficiency that allows for compliance with federal mandates. Battery packs are the most reliable power source to ensure uninterrupted care and streamlined workflow.
Michelle T. Willis
Michelle became passionate about the medical industry while growing up as a nurse’s daughter, but her true talent lies in the written word. As a lifelong learner and explorer, Michelle is pursuing her career in writing while traveling the country.