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Enhancing Your Anesthesia Department with TetraGraph: Insights from Steve Hultgren

Nov 15, 2024

By Steve Hultgren, Anesthesia Technician Supervisor at CHI Health

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The TetraGraph has been a game-changer for our anesthesia department. The monitors have improved our patient safety and increased our operational efficiency. For those looking to adopt TetraGraph in their facilities, I’d like to share some insights to facilitate a smooth implementation and ensure a positive experience for end-users.

Eliminating Barriers
  • Convenient Location: By installing a TetraGraph in every anesthesia area, we’ve eliminated the need for clinicians to search for devices, making quantitative train-of-four (TOF) monitoring readily available for every patient. 
  • Compact Design: TetraGraph’s small size allows for optimal mounting directly on the anesthesia machine. This setup minimizes movement, enhances cord management, reduces clutter, and decreases the risk of damage or missing parts.
Optimizing Workflow
  • Sensor Management: We’ve streamlined sensor availability by stocking them in pre-op or setting them out on the anesthesia machine prior to case starts. 
  • Versatility: The TetraGraph can be started before or after muscle relaxant administration. Additionally, the EMG technology allows for the patients’ arms to remain tucked, particularly in robotic or laparoscopic cases. 
  • Tech Support: Our anesthesia techs are trained in basic troubleshooting and proper sensor placement. 
  • Helpful Resources: We added sensor placement reference cards in each anesthesia location and have a private messaging app with Senzime for real-time support.
Fostering Collaboration
  • Building Partnerships: Having a supportive partner like Senzime is crucial. They’ve become more than just a vendor; their consistent communication and availability during our rollout, along with ongoing clinical support and education, have been invaluable.
  • Training New Staff: As our anesthesia team expands, Senzime routinely provides new staff training, ensuring all clinicians are fully educated on the monitor. 
  • Staying Updated: Senzime keeps us well-informed about software updates and new equipment releases, further enhancing our operational efficiency.
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Planning for the Future
  • Data Integration: We’re looking to integrate TetraGraph with Epic, our electronic health records (EHR) system, which will simplify workflows and enhance our ability to capture data for quality and cost initiatives.

    I recommend starting integration projects before or during TetraGraph installation, as IT projects often take longer than anticipated.

In conclusion, the TetraGraph has not only streamlined our anesthesia workflow but has also elevated the standard of care we provide to our patients.

By focusing on eliminating barriers, optimizing processes, and fostering collaborative partnerships, you can create an environment where both clinicians and patients benefit. For those considering TetraGraph, embracing these insights can lead to the successful adoption of quantitative TOF monitoring. 

Author of this blog

Steve Hultgren, Anesthesia Technician Supervisor at CHI Health
Omaha, Nebraska, United States

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Steve Hultgren, Anesthesia Technician Supervisor at CHI |