User:Ashleynlogsdon/Barcode technology in healthcare

More than 160 000 adverse medical events per year have been suspected in the United States because of misidentification of patient or laboratory specimen. Clinical laboratories are responsible for thousands of tests everyday, so it is important to implement ways to correct patient identification errors. Barcodes have been noted to be the strong intervention to reduce labeling errors on specimen collection, by ensuring that the correct patient is receiving the correct analysis. Barcode technologies for specimen collection have been noted to increase patient comfort, decrease possible delays in diagnosis or treatment, and decrease rework for nurse and laboratory staff. Incorporating barcoding systems in clinical laboratories has shown to be effective in reducing ID errors. Copied from Barcode technology in healthcare Barcoding blood and other products may allow for reduction of medical error and increase patient safety. It is important to ensure accurate identification with blood products because ID errors put patients at risk for blood incompatibility. Blood and blood components manufactured on or after April 26, 2006, must have barcode labels according to the FDA. This is used to minimize the risk of patients receiving the wrong treatment in healthcare facilities. According to the FDA, a minimum of four information pieces are required for the label, which includes the following:


 * Unique identifier for the facility from where the blood is coming from;
 * Lot number identifying blood donor;
 * Product code; and
 * Blood type (ABO,O,A and Rh).

Patient Identification[edit]
Barcode technology can help prevent medical errors by making accurate and reliable information readily available at the point-of-care. Information, such as the drug identification, medication management, infusion safety, specimen collection, etc. and any other patient care activity can be easily tracked during the patient stay. Electronic barcoding ensures correct patient identification throughout the testing process, including test ordering and reporting, specimen collection, and analysis. Wristbands with barcodes that contain the information of the patient's medical record or visit number, and any other identifiers have been proven effective to provide proper patient care. In addition to wristbands, barcode scanners and printers are used to confirm patient identification.