Endeavour Health Edward Hospital in Naperville welcomed a new employee, a robot named Moxi, almost three years ago.
Moxi is an autonomous delivery robot created by Diligent Robotics of Austin, Texas. There are currently two Moxis roaming the hospital’s halls, assisting nurses with errands such as prescription pick-up and delivery.
Since their arrival at the hospital in 2022, the Moxi robots have made a significant impact and achieved major milestones. They have travelled approximately 48,000 miles, nearly twice the circumference of the Earth, and saved nurses more than 100 million steps, according to Elmer Dulce, director of nursing for all inpatient cardiac telemetry units at Endeavour Health.
“Think about it: where nurses would not be able to devote that time and energy, they can be at the bedside. Dulce stated that there have been approximately 103,000 deliveries made to date.
Moxi robots save time for nurses to be with patients
Moxi easily navigates the hospital, thanks to a preprogrammed digital map and a “ID” that she uses to access various areas.
According to staff, her built-in compartments can transport approximately 3 litres of fluid, various medications, and other items all at once, saving time.
“It saves me from having to leave the floor, the department, or walk away from the patient to take or pick up something when I can do it with Moxi. I do not have to leave, so I can stay by the patient’s bedside,” said Joanna Lozada, a nurse at Endeavour Health Edward Hospital.
Another nurse, Annemarie Ellsworth, explained that the saved time enables nurses to better connect with their patients.
“People come here when they are at their lowest point, and I enjoy learning about them. I enjoy spending time with them that is not solely focused on their illness, and it means a lot to them. It simply settles them down. Ellsworth stated that it reduces their anxiety about everything that is going on with them.
An exciting face to see and a part of the Endeavor Health family
Moxi’s three years on duty have added excitement to the hospital’s hallways for both employees and patients.
Lozada mentioned that she is a favourite among guests, particularly young children who enjoy seeing the robot in action.
“They enjoy chasing after her, getting in front of her, and watching her move her eyes. If they are lucky, she may speak with them. “It just brightens the day,” Lozada said.
She is more than just a robot to the Endeavour Health staff.
“You can not help but feel happy. Moxi is a welcome addition to our family and brings us joy.She gave us that time to be by the bedside. We are doing what we do best: providing the best care possible,” Dulce said.
