Positive Patient Identification
What is Positive Patient Identification?
September 5, 2012
Positive Patient Identification is a combination of computer systems, hardware devices and printable products used in identifying a patient by matching historical records with current and contemporary records. It is used to prevent medical misidentification while minimizing repetitive patient records and charts within an organization. A positive patient identification system is part of a very large and powerful patient-based system and linking tool that is often referred to as an ADT (Admission, Discharge, and Transfer Information) or a HIS (Hospital Information System). The ADT/HIS system is designed to work across all departments and facilities while generating a unique Master Patient Index (MPI) identification number for each patient and is crucial for a positive patient identification. The other vital part of a successful patient identification system is the combination of devices and products that allow for an electronic barcode scanning system that is used in conjunction with the health care facilities' ADT/HIS system.
The software system for positive patient identification must always integrate with all emergency and inpatient/outpatient registrations that make up the ADT/HIS network. The system of the ADT/HIS electronically track patients, their charts and their specimens in an efficient, mobile and dependable means by verifying patient identification from admissions to discharge. It is the positive patient software system that allows for patient records, from a ADT/HIS network, to be electronically printed on forms, charts, wristbands and labels for lab work and medications. This system eliminates the process of re-entry or handwritten, typed inserts, stick-on labels or embossers, which saves time and eliminates costly mistakes. Furthermore, doctors can easily order medical procedures, medication, lab work and X-rays for each patient that will be accessible from any department that simultaneously increases productivity and efficiency throughout the organization.
In addition to the positive patient identification software system, the hardware provides a second line of protection to assure patient safety and accuracy of files. The hardware consists of handheld scanners that can scan barcodes printed on products and documents such as forms, labels and wristbands. In addition to barcode scanners, the use of RFIDs and Biometrics are continuing to increasing but still cause some misreads and can be expensive for hospitals and medical facilities.
For the positive patient identification to be successful, the process always begins at the entry of patient administration where every patient's ID wristband is encoded with a readable barcode. Text, graphics, and barcodes are produced directly on each patient's wristband, eliminating handwritten labels or embossers while allowing software applications to match patients with their on-line computer files throughout the healthcare ADT/HIS system. This powerful patient-based linking system is designed to work with all departments and facility systems generating a unique master patient index (MPI) identification number for each patient assuring a safe and accurate positive patient identification for all patients within the hospital facility.
As technology keeps advancing forward, positive patient identification systems will continue to increase and become more accurate and more efficient. However, to continue improving patient safety, ease of use and standardized procedures are paramount to the success of positive patient identification products.
Posted September 5th, 2012 | By Kim Higdon
Positive Patient Identification is a combination of computer systems, hardware devices and printable products used in identifying a patient by matching historical records with current and contemporary records. It is used to prevent medical misidentification while minimizing repetitive patient records and charts within an organization. A positive patient identification system is part of a very large and powerful patient-based system and linking tool that is often referred to as an ADT (Admission, Discharge, and Transfer Information) or a HIS (Hospital Information System). The ADT/HIS system is designed to work across all departments and facilities while generating a unique Master Patient Index (MPI) identification number for each patient and is crucial for a positive patient identification. The other vital part of a successful patient identification system is the combination of devices and products that allow for an electronic barcode scanning system that is used in conjunction with the health care facilities' ADT/HIS system.
The software system for positive patient identification must always integrate with all emergency and inpatient/outpatient registrations that make up the ADT/HIS network. The system of the ADT/HIS electronically track patients, their charts and their specimens in an efficient, mobile and dependable means by verifying patient identification from admissions to discharge. It is the positive patient software system that allows for patient records, from a ADT/HIS network, to be electronically printed on forms, charts, wristbands and labels for lab work and medications. This system eliminates the process of re-entry or handwritten, typed inserts, stick-on labels or embossers, which saves time and eliminates costly mistakes. Furthermore, doctors can easily order medical procedures, medication, lab work and X-rays for each patient that will be accessible from any department that simultaneously increases productivity and efficiency throughout the organization.
In addition to the positive patient identification software system, the hardware provides a second line of protection to assure patient safety and accuracy of files. The hardware consists of handheld scanners that can scan barcodes printed on products and documents such as forms, labels and wristbands. In addition to barcode scanners, the use of RFIDs and Biometrics are continuing to increasing but still cause some misreads and can be expensive for hospitals and medical facilities.
For the positive patient identification to be successful, the process always begins at the entry of patient administration where every patient's ID wristband is encoded with a readable barcode. Text, graphics, and barcodes are produced directly on each patient's wristband, eliminating handwritten labels or embossers while allowing software applications to match patients with their on-line computer files throughout the healthcare ADT/HIS system. This powerful patient-based linking system is designed to work with all departments and facility systems generating a unique master patient index (MPI) identification number for each patient assuring a safe and accurate positive patient identification for all patients within the hospital facility.
As technology keeps advancing forward, positive patient identification systems will continue to increase and become more accurate and more efficient. However, to continue improving patient safety, ease of use and standardized procedures are paramount to the success of positive patient identification products.
Posted September 5th, 2012 | By Kim Higdon