Exploring bed sensor technology: interdisciplinary insights in a geriatric assessment inpatient setting

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Sleep quality is a critical component of health and recovery for hospitalized older adults, yet current monitoring practices often lack the precision and detail required for effective intervention. This qualitative study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and acceptance of implementing the artificial intelligence-powered Sleepsense bed sensor for sleep monitoring in a geriatric inpatient hospital setting. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: This qualitative study involved interviews with 22 patients and focus groups with 33 interdisciplinary staff members. Data were analyzed using an interpretive description approach, guided by the technology acceptance model and unified theory of acceptance and use of technology, to explore the feasibility and acceptance of Sleepsense bed sensors in a geriatric inpatient setting. RESULTS: Key findings from thematic analysis emerged in three main themes representing the feasibility and acceptance of Sleepsense bed sensors among hospitalized older adults: user acceptance, integration with somnolog into clinical practice, and implementation barriers and practical challenges. Staff reported high acceptance of Sleepsense technology due to its nonintrusiveness and ability to reduce disruptive nighttime checks. However, challenges such as the need for consent, data interpretation, and occasional inaccuracies were also identified. Integrating Sleepsense with existing care practices was recommended to enhance patient care while maintaining staff confidence. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: This study underscores the potential of advanced sleep monitoring technologies in subacute care settings and highlights the importance of addressing implementation barriers for effective adoption.