*commercial interest*
We installed some systems for trial at Whipps Cross about 18 months ago.
They were formerly launched 6 months ago. You could contact Hector Minto
[log in to unmask] about this or try and get hold of Russ Smith who is
mentioned in the following article.
Neil Hansen
Whipps intensive care unit gets state-of-the-art talking computer
A TALKING computer which gives critically ill patients the power of speech,
has been installed in the intensive care unit of Whipps Cross University
Hospital.
The touch screen Cameleon computer gives patients who have endotracheal and
tracheostomy tubes in their throats the ability to communicate with their
families and staff.
Funding for the new flat screen computer at Whipps Cross has been made
available by the hospital's League of Friends.
When 'speaking' through the computer, patients select symbols or clearly
displayed letters and whole sentences are spoken for them at the touch of a
button.
Practice development nurse Russ Smith said: "The loss of the ability to
communicate causes frustration and increases the level of dependence felt by
patients who cannot express their needs and fears.
"Patients are often in life threatening situations and communication is
vital to their personal morale, and can be an important factor in making a
quick recovery."
A special reception, thanking those who donated funds for the computer, took
place in the hospital board room, on Monday.
A second computer was donated to the hospital by the Possum Trust, a
charitable organisation connected to the company making computer systems.
Waltham Forest Guardian: 12:07am Thursday 22nd April 2004
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