N.S. pilot project monitors patients while they wait in ER

Patients waiting at an ER in Dartmouth with symptoms including chest pain, severe bleeding or trouble breathing are given a portable device that allows nurses to monitor their pulse and oxygen levels. The pulse oximeter is wirelessly connected to a monitor that tracks a patient's vital signs. It has allowed nursing staff to catch heart-rate abnormalities in patients. The pilot program, which started in Jan. is part of the hospital’s strategy to deal with long waits for emergency care. Nova Scotia Health said if the pilot is successful, the project could expand to other hospitals in the province.