Application of radio-frequency identification in perioperative care.

Every perioperative department could benefit from having an information system that facilitates managerial function and improves efficiency in the OR. The Patient Advancement Monitoring System-Surgical implemented in a hospital in Taipei, Taiwan, is one such a system that uses radio-frequency identification technology for tracking perioperative care of patients along workflow checkpoints. This web-based medical information system can facilitate care provided throughout perioperative services by providing instant patient information to staff members in cross-functional health care teams. Manpower is not wasted on duplicating data entry because the surgical progression is displayed in real time. Satisfaction with the system has been high for both nurses and administrators.

RFID-initiated workflow control to facilitate patient safety and utilization efficiency in operation theater.

OBJECTIVE: To control the workflow for surgical patients, we in-cooperate radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology to develop a Patient Advancement Monitoring System (PAMS) in operation theater. METHODS: The web-based PAMS is designed to monitor the whole workflow for the handling of surgical patients. The system integrates multiple data entry ports Across the multi-functional surgical teams. Data are entered into the system through RFID, bar code, palm digital assistance (PDA), ultra-mobile personal computer (UMPC), or traditional keyboard at designated checkpoints. Active radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag can initiate data demonstration on the computer screens upon a patient's arrival at any particular checkpoint along the advancement pathway. RESULTS: The PAMS can manage the progress of operations, patient localization, identity verification, and peri-operative care. The workflow monitoring provides caregivers' instant information sharing to enhance management efficiency. CONCLUSION: RFID-initiate surgical workflow control is valuable to meet the safety, quality, efficiency requirements in operation theater.