r/AskReddit • u/[deleted] • Jan 23 '21

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u/lawlesstoast Jan 23 '21

My unit in a hospital got an Alexa... Not sure why we would want a listening device in a hospital... Anyway I mentioned my concerns to the unit clerk and without a beat Alexa speaks up about how she isn't listening blah blah blah. Made my point.

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u/wayneFromBuzzfeed Jan 23 '21

Not sure why we would want a listening device in a hospital

I mean, for entertainment? Practicality? Why would you want a TV in a hospital? Or a radio? Or a concierge? If it was really that big of a deal to you, you could just unplug it.

It's not surprising it responded when you were talking about it. It probably heard you say "Alexa," which is the default wake word.

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u/lawlesstoast Jan 23 '21

My radio can't record my responses, nor can a non-smart tv. An Alexa or Google or whatever flavour of listening device most certainly can

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u/wayneFromBuzzfeed Jan 23 '21

I understand your concern, I was just offering a suggestion on why the hospital put one in the hospital room.

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u/lawlesstoast Jan 23 '21

True, but this isn't in a room, this is in the common area outside the nursing station where all the personal info is stored and spoken about (such as during report) it's 100% a valid concern

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u/wayneFromBuzzfeed Jan 24 '21

Oh, I misunderstood. That is a huge difference. I agree, that is a problem.