Published: 22 December 2011
by TOM FOOT

A GHOULISH spectre is haunting the entrance of University College Hospital. But don’t worry, this ghost is here to help.

Meet the country’s first holographic NHS staff member, a “virtual nurse” who warns patients about deadly superbugs such as MRSA.

Reflected through a high-definition video projector, the image is beamed into the air producing a crystal-clear image that tells people to wash their hands.

It appears above
some gel dispensers where those passing
can clean their hands.

Trevor Payne, director of estates and facilities at UCLH, said: “We are proud to be the first hospital in the UK to introduce a virtual nurse as part of our campaign to tackle infection.

“This initiative will help us to promote hand hygiene and deliver other key messages in a consistent and compelling manner. Raising awareness through high-profile initiatives like this enables us to educate our patients, visitors and staff alike.”

Many more “ghost nurses”, produced by the Healthcare Messaging Group, will appear in the hospital if the pilot is successful.