HowRU

HowRU facilitates secure Webex-based cloud video visits between ICU patients and their families to support patient-family-centered care when in-person bedside access is restricted.

Key Features:

• Simulation of open and flexible visiting: Mimics family presence at the bedside to enable ongoing engagement that reflects open and flexible visiting practices.
• Accommodation for diverse family needs: Supports differences in family size, dynamics, and cultural practices to enable inclusive virtual visits.
• Privacy and security: Integrates the Webex video conferencing platform with custom software to provide private and secure communication that safeguards dignity and confidentiality.
• Automation to reduce staff workload: Uses custom software to automate labor-intensive processes involved in arranging and managing virtual visits, minimizing impact on ICU staff workload.

Scientific Applications:

• Patient-family-centered care in ICUs: Enables remote interactions that maintain family involvement in care when bedside access is limited.
• Cultural and family dynamics support: Facilitates culturally appropriate and scalable family interactions across varied family structures.
• Preservation of dignity and confidentiality during remote care: Provides a secure channel for sensitive communications between patients and families.

Methodology:

Integration of cloud-based technology with the Webex video conferencing platform and custom software that automates virtual visiting processes.