OU Health Launches Virtual Nurse Program to Give Bedside Nurses More Time With Patients

Oklahoma City, OK — OU Health has launched a new virtual nurse program designed to increase the amount of time bedside nurses spend with patients. The initiative is currently being piloted in the hospital’s neurology and neurosurgery units.

The program uses virtual nurses—licensed professionals working remotely—to handle many administrative and documentation tasks, allowing on-site nurses to stay focused on direct patient care.

“This program allows our bedside nurses to be at the bedside more, and that’s what patients want,” said Chief Nursing Officer David Allen. “We’re already seeing patients respond very positively.”

By reducing the time nurses spend charting, entering orders, and managing routine paperwork, OU Health aims to improve both patient satisfaction and staff efficiency.

Allen says the early results are promising. The program is expected to expand to additional hospital units in the coming months, depending on the outcome of the current pilot phase.

📌 Why It Matters:

• Increased bedside care: Nurses are more available to attend to patient needs in person.

• Use of healthcare technology: Virtual nurses support clinical teams without sacrificing quality.

• Improved experience: Patients feel more supported when nurses are present and engaged.

As hospitals nationwide look for ways to reduce burnout and improve care, OU Health’s virtual nurse model could become a key strategy in modern healthcare delivery.