Exploring the Top Nurse Call Systems for Healthcare Facilities

Nurse call systems for hospitals play a vital role in patient safety and efficient communication between caregivers and staff. Whether it's a patient needing immediate assistance or a nurse coordinating with another department, these patient care systems ensure timely responses—literally saving time and lives.

For healthcare facilities, selecting the right system means balancing reliability, scalability, ease of use, and budget. This post covers essential decision-making criteria and highlights trusted nurse call system manufacturers available through PartsSource, including Anacom MedTek, Curbell Medical, Crest Healthcare, and TekTone Sound & Signal Mfg. Inc.

How to Choose the Right Nurse Call System: Key Features and Considerations

Choosing the right nurse call system can make a significant difference in patient experience and staff workload. Here are the key factors to consider during procurement:

Reliability

Nurse call systems must be dependable during peak demand and emergencies. Look for systems with built-in redundancies that can maintain functionality even if one component fails. A reliable system minimizes the risk of missed calls and delayed care. Components like patient stations, call cords, and corridor dome lights work together to ensure prompt communication and rapid response, reducing risks and enhancing patient safety.

Scalability

Hospitals and care centers grow, and their communication systems and services need to grow with them. Scalable nurse call systems can easily accommodate additional beds, wings, or even entire new buildings without requiring a complete overhaul. This makes future upgrades smoother and more affordable.

Integration

Modern facilities often rely on multiple communication tools. An ideal nurse call system integrates well with other technologies, such as electronic health records (EHR), overhead paging, and emergency alarms. Systems that offer real-time alerts across departments help create seamless workflows. Advanced systems now incorporate mobile device integration, allowing caregivers to receive alerts on smartphones, improving response times and flexibility.

Ease of Use

The best systems are intuitive. Whether it’s a patient pressing a call button or a nurse navigating system controls, simplicity matters. Systems that require minimal training help reduce user error and improve response times, especially during critical moments. Patient stations and nurse consoles are designed for direct, user-friendly communication, enabling quick assessment of patient needs.

Budget Considerations

Cost is always a factor, but value should drive your choice. A less expensive system may require more frequent nurse call system troubleshooting or costly upgrades and replacements down the road. Always consider the total cost of ownership, including installation, maintenance, and support.

Training and Support

A well-designed system is only as good as the support behind it. Look for nurse call system manufacturers that offer robust training resources, technical support, and easy installation options. Staff should feel confident using the system from day one. Ongoing maintenance, including software updates and hardware servicing, ensures long-term reliability and compliance with healthcare standards.

Why Nurse Call Systems Matter for Staff Workflow and Patient Outcomes

Beyond facilitating communication, nurse call systems directly impact patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes. Efficient systems enable:

• Reduced Response Times: Prompt attention to patient needs enhances comfort and safety.
   

• Improved Staff Coordination: Seamless communication between departments streamlines workflows, enhancing patient care as a result.
   

• Enhanced Patient Satisfaction: Quick responses and effective communication contribute to a positive patient experience.
   

• Data-Driven Insights: Advanced systems can track response times and call frequencies, aiding in performance evaluations and staffing decisions.
   

Top Nurse Call System Manufacturers from PartsSource

PartsSource offers high-quality systems and components from industry-trusted brands. Here's a closer look at the manufacturers and what sets them apart.

Anacom MedTek Nurse Call Systems

Anacom MedTek provides a comprehensive range of nurse call equipment designed with durability and usability in mind. Their pillow speakers feature quick-change medical cables, simplifying both setup and maintenance. They also offer specialty items like Rauland-compatible 9-pin speakers and custom adapter cables, making them a flexible choice for a wide range of facility needs.

Curbell Medical Nurse Call Systems

Curbell Medical is known for creating communication tools that are both effective and patient-friendly. Their line includes pillow speakers with clear audio and customizable call cords. Facilities can also choose from breakaway kits and low-voltage controllers to suit different care settings. Curbell’s products integrate easily with existing hospital systems, which helps improve both workflow and patient comfort.

Crest Healthcare Nurse Call Systems

Crest Healthcare specializes in durable and user-friendly equipment. Their pillow speakers are built to deliver crisp sound quality and withstand repeated use. Crest also offers an extensive lineup of call cords, pull cords, stations, adapters, and other accessories to ensure smooth integration with various systems. Their products are a reliable choice for facilities looking to customize and future-proof their communication infrastructure.

TekTone Sound & Signal Mfg. Inc. Nurse Call Systems

TekTone is a leader in scalable nurse call solutions. Their offerings range from wired to wireless nurse systems, catering to both small clinics and large hospitals. The Tek-CARE120, for example, features a touchscreen master station and gentle call tones, enhancing both user experience and response efficiency. TekTone systems often include add-ons like motion detectors and door/window monitors, adding a layer of security alongside communication.

How PartsSource Supports Your Nurse Call System Needs

When sourcing nurse call systems, PartsSource simplifies the process by providing access to trusted brands and a streamlined procurement experience. Whether you need a new system or just replacement parts, here’s how PartsSource helps:

• OEM Parts and Accessories: Choose from top manufacturers like Anacom MedTek, Curbell Medical, Crest Healthcare, and TekTone.
   

• Fast, Reliable Shipping: Reduce downtime with quick delivery on essential items like pillow speakers, call cords, and adapter cables.
   

• Expert Support: From nurse call system installation guidance to technical troubleshooting, PartsSource provides the expertise to keep your communication systems running smoothly.

To explore available products and learn more, visit our full selection of nurse call systems.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nurse Call Systems

Still curious about the ins and outs of nurse call systems? Here's some commonly asked questions: 

What is a nurse call system in a hospital?

A nurse call system is a communication tool that allows patients to alert nurses or caregivers when they need assistance. Most systems include a bedside call button or pillow speaker that sends a signal to the nurse station, prompting a quick response. Modern systems may also include voice communication, visual alerts, and real-time updates to improve efficiency and safety. These tools are essential in both routine care and emergency situations.

How do nurse call systems improve patient care?

They improve care by reducing the time it takes for a nurse or caregiver to respond to a patient’s needs. Whether a patient requires help getting out of bed or is experiencing a medical emergency, a nurse call system ensures their request is communicated immediately. This fast response capability enhances patient care and satisfaction and can lead to better outcomes, particularly in high-acuity settings.

What are the different types of nurse call systems?

There are several types:

• Basic wired systems with call buttons and indicator lights.
   

• Voice-enabled systems that allow direct communication.
   

• Wireless nurse systems, which are ideal for facilities that need flexibility in layout or expansion.
   

• Integrated systems that connect with electronic health records (EHR), alarm systems, or mobile devices for broader functionality.
   

Each facility should evaluate its specific needs, infrastructure, and future plans before selecting a system type.

How long do nurse call systems last?

With regular maintenance, most high-quality nurse call systems last between 8 to 15 years, though this depends on usage, the manufacturer, and how well the system is maintained. Some facilities upgrade components over time to extend the life of the system without a complete overhaul. PartsSource helps with this by offering reliable repair and replacement components from trusted brands like Curbell Medical and TekTone.

Who installs and maintains nurse call systems?

Installation is typically done by a licensed medical technology integrator or biomedical technician. Maintenance and repairs are often handled in-house by a hospital’s clinical engineering team or contracted through external vendors. PartsSource supports both by offering OEM-compatible parts and expert guidance for biomedical professionals looking to maintain performance and compliance.

Are nurse call systems customizable for different healthcare environments?

Yes. Systems can be tailored to suit acute care hospitals, long-term care facilities, surgical centers, and even rehabilitation clinics. For example, Anacom MedTek offers customizable pillow speakers for different nurse call platforms, while TekTone provides scalable solutions that work well in both large hospitals and smaller senior care homes. Choosing a flexible and modular system ensures that upgrades and expansions won’t require a full system replacement.

What should I look for in nurse call system manufacturers?

Look for nurse call system manufacturers with a reputation for:

• Reliability under daily use.
   

• Technical support and product documentation.
   

• Compliance with healthcare regulations.
   

• Compatibility with your existing infrastructure.
   

PartsSource carries nurse call systems from Anacom MedTek, Curbell Medical, Crest Healthcare, and TekTone — all of which are known for high-quality components and excellent customer support.

Find Premium Call System Solutions with PartsSource

In today’s healthcare environments, reliable communication is non-negotiable. Nurse call systems for hospitals do more than just connect patients with caregivers—they support safety, streamline workflows, and improve outcomes. The right system, with components like patient stations, call cords, and nurse consoles, ensures seamless communication and rapid response, critical for patient safety and staff efficiency. Choosing the right system involves more than cost. It’s about reliability, integration, usability, and long-term support.

PartsSource makes it easier to find and maintain the systems you need, with trusted manufacturers and responsive service. If you’re evaluating your current communication tools or planning for expansion, now is the time to explore your options. Contact us today to request a demo!