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RFID Asset Tracking in Hospitals
Radio frequency identification (RFID) is an automatic identification method that relies on storing and remotely retrieving data via devices called RFID tags or transponders. Common uses for RFID technology are inventory management, asset tracking, and ID badging. This article discusses the use of RFID to track both inanimate and human assets in hospitals.
RFID technology is used in healthcare environments for monitoring patients, tracking medical equipment and supplies, locating personnel, tracking blood samples, and preventing the production of counterfeit drugs. Hospitals in particular lose thousands of dollars' worth of equipment and supplies each year, and they spend many hours searching for assets, including patient monitoring devices, portable x-ray machines, wheelchairs, mobile workstations, stretchers, and other items.
In addition to keeping track of the aforementioned assets, hospitals also face challenges when it comes to tracking patients and staff. Some patients require multiple procedures to be performed in different areas within the building, and knowing their real-time location improves the patient-care process. Furthermore, an RFID tracking system can alert hospital staff if and when a patient leaves their room. Perhaps the greatest benefit to using RFID to track patients is that if the patient is in critical care, knowledge of their exact location allows them to receive rapid medical assistance if their condition suddenly gets worse.
Other benefits of using RFID in hospitals include:
- Reduction of errors during medication dispensing
- Increased productivity and efficiency
- Theft deterrence
- Cost reduction and increased ROI
- Enhanced quality of healthcare
The ability to locate and identify assets in real-time allows hospitals to save time and money while improving patient safety and the quality of care that they receive.
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