Documenting the ICU-CHAT Device at The Alfred
The photos featured in the 2023 Impact Report
The Alfred Hospital commissioned MMP Studio to document their groundbreaking ICU-CHAT device, a tool designed to revolutionise communication for critically ill patients in the Intensive Care Unit. Our task was to visually capture the impact and functionality of this innovative technology in a sensitive healthcare environment.
Team approach to patient care: ICU staff collaborating on patient communication.
The ICU-CHAT device, developed by The Alfred's ICU team in collaboration with Swinburne University of Technology, is a customised tablet that allows patients who are unable to speak to communicate their needs effectively. We aimed to showcase this device in action, highlighting its ease of use and the profound difference it makes in patient care.
ICU team facilitating patient communication.
To achieve this, we worked closely with ICU staff to understand the device's functionality and its impact on patient care. We captured images of the device being used by patients, family members, and healthcare professionals, focusing on showing the user-friendly interface and the variety of communication options available. Perhaps most importantly, we documented the emotional impact of the device, capturing moments of connection between patients and their caregivers.
Family involvement in ICU care: Daughter supporting patient communication
Working in the ICU presented unique challenges. We had to navigate a sensitive environment while respecting patient privacy, capture the device's screen clearly without compromising image quality, and showcase the emotional impact of improved communication in a medical setting. These challenges pushed us to be creative and adaptive in our approach.
Technology enhancing patient care: Close-up of ICU communication device
The photographs we produced have been utilised by The Alfred Hospital in various ways. They've been used to illustrate news articles about the ICU-CHAT device, provide visual content for grant applications and fundraising efforts, educate staff and families about the device's capabilities, and demonstrate The Alfred's commitment to innovative patient care.
Alfred Hospital website - A new way of communicating in the ICU
Client Name: The Alfred Foundation
Type of Organisation: Hospital Foundation The Alfred Hospital ICU, Melbourne
Photographer: Michelle McFarlane Photography
