We appreciate Mr P. V. George's suggestion to improve patient care ("Fit ward patients with wireless heart monitor"; July 21).

Patients are admitted based on their diagnosis and medical needs. The ward type has no bearing on the care provided, as resources are allocated according to the level of attention required.

For example, patients in the intensive care unit would need one-to-one nursing care and round-the-clock monitoring.

The condition and welfare of our patients are monitored by the nurses throughout the day. Their vital signs are taken at regular intervals, as prescribed by our doctors following clinical assessment during ward rounds.

Monitoring frequency is adjusted when there is a change in the patient's condition.

Those who require close continuous monitoring will be transferred to a higher level of care, such as the high dependency area, intermediate care area or intensive care unit.

There are, however, instances when patients may collapse suddenly, although they appear clinically well.

Most recover with prompt medical attention. Unfortunately, some patients with multiple co-morbidities can succumb, despite resuscitation.

To further improve our patient care, the Singapore General Hospital will be implementing a new alert system which connects the monitoring devices on the patients virtually to a central system so that patients with abnormal readings can be attended to quickly.

Tracy Carol Ayre (Dr)
Chief Nurse
Singapore General Hospital