Implementation Considerations
Deciding to barcode means that you have committed to improving patient safety through the use of technology. But getting there takes some thought and consideration of a number of important decisions.
Printing options – Since you will always have to get printed patient information onto a wristband you need to determine what technology you will use. There are basically two printing technologies to consider: laser and thermal. What you select will be based on the wristbands you choose and the specific decision points that relate to each of these options.
Scanning equipment – it’s good to think ahead when considering which scanning equipment to purchase. Consider whether you want tethered or wireless scanners…or if you will be using glucometers with built-in scanners, PDA’s with scanning capability or other devices that can scan. More advanced technology, like 2D barcodes, requires different devices than simple, linear barcodes. Buying forward-compatible equipment may cost more in the short-run, but it is likely to save thousands and speed transitions to new applications in the long run. Always be sure that the barcode you select works with the scanning technology you purchase!
Symbology – depending on your application and the systems you are using, you should give careful consideration to the symbology you are going to use. Keep in mind that the symbology is simply a means to encode data. Since data is decoded by the scanner before reaching your application, most applications should be neutral as to which symbology you select.
Wristband and/or label selection – Your wristband choice(s) can dramatically impact patient safety. Your investment in high-tech, expensive equipment cannot help you validate your patient’s identity and ensure their safety if they are not wearing a wristband or if the barcode is not scanable. Reducing medical errors takes more than a barcode, though. Selecting the right wristband and implement patient identification procedures are what really count. Spend extra time understanding your Admissions Wristbands, since those are most critical to positive patient identification and patient safety. Things to consider include:
- Closure type: tamper-proof/tamper-resistant, tamper-evident or repositionable
- Printer type: laser or thermal
- Print area size: some bands have smaller print areas than others; be sure the print area is adequate to your needs.
- Ability to re-band: bands are cut off for many reasons – consider the process of re-banding that would be accepted at your facility
- Durability: how long will a band last compared with your ALOS?
Training – Like anything else, getting the most out of your new patient ID system and the barcodes you print on them requires training. Aside from creating an atmosphere of competence and acceptance, it helps keep those who would find “work-around’s” from doing so. Some things to consider for training include:
- Supporting staff with “coaches” is useful, but remember to have people available during all shifts.
- Have sample wristbands and scanners hooked up and available for practice in advance of a go live. These should be in easily accessible locations or else they won’t be used.
- Consider whether or not you want patient chart labels to have barcodes. This is a common source of barcode scanning data that is not on the patient's wristband.
- Alternately, select a symbology on your wristbands that works exclusively with your POC system so scans from a label will not be accepted as valid inputs.
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