Effective communication across a healthcare facility is a must for high-quality patient care. Some staff members may notice the two-way radios they use abruptly stop working in the middle of a shift or a healthcare crisis. In an environment where people’s health is at stake, healthcare professionals need radios with reliable batteries.
Keep in mind these smart tips that will maximize your two-way radio battery life. Read the following information to learn how you can improve your healthcare facility’s communication.
Choose the Correct Battery for the Two-Way Radio Model
Selecting the correct battery for two-way radios is the first step to ensure the radio and battery are compatible and will have sustained life spans. Each radio model requires a specific battery type to function optimally, and using incompatible batteries can result in shorter battery life or even damage to the device.
Lithium-ion batteries are some of the most common two-way radio batteries because of their higher capacities. Before finalizing your purchase, always buy batteries from reputable manufacturers. This will make sure the batteries are reliable and won’t damage the radios.
Turn Off the Radio When It’s Not in Use
Leaving electronics on while not in use is a common mistake in professional and personal life. Oftentimes, you may feel that you need to leave on the radio at all hours just in case. There are several situations in which it’s appropriate to turn off your two-way radio, including break times, training sessions, meetings, and at the end of a shift.
Avoid Continuously Charging the Batteries
Leaving the batteries attached to the charger once it reaches a full charge can significantly shorten the battery’s life span. Overcharging is a common issue that degrades electronic devices, and two-way radios are not exempt.
Rather than charge the batteries overnight, find time during the day to switch out the batteries and charge them. This will ensure optimal battery performance each day at work for efficient communication without overcharging.
Clean Up Any Accumulated Residue on the Batteries
Keeping your batteries in good condition is another key to extending their lives. Make sure the batteries are clean from dust or dirt. Using a soft cloth or a brush to gently clean the battery terminals can help keep your batteries in top shape. All forms of residue are likely to interfere with their performance.
Remove the Batteries From the Radio at the End of the Day
Removing the batteries might seem like an inconvenient step, but it’s a smart tip to maximize the battery life of your two-way radios. Just like charging batteries overnight may be harmful, batteries left in radios for extended times can drain the battery’s power. Before you know it, this step will become a part of your daily routine that will maintain the longevity of your two-way radios.
Healthcare professionals rely on timely communication to properly conduct their jobs. Whether you’re working in an urgent care clinic, a doctor’s office, or a hospital, looking after the facility’s two-way radio batteries is essential to take care of patients and communicate with staff.
