Monthly Archives: November 2012

The Advantages of Using Patient Identifier Wristbands

Patient identifier wristbands are ideal for clinics, hospitals, and other health care institutions since it provides proper client identification. Such wristbands contain barcodes which are easily scanned with a barcode scanner. The band stores all the pertinent data about the patient including the patient’s name, diet, diagnosis, treatments provided, diagnostic procedures, allergies, and medications. Most hospitals have already adapted this new system, which has tremendous effects in reducing medical errors and aid the nurses and doctors maintain an accurate document of the patient’s condition.

According to CNN, hospital errors are becoming very common. In fact, there are 250,000 people who die each year due to preventable medical mistakes. Others also acquire injuries considered irreversible. All professionals including top doctors and nurses can create mistakes especially when there are a lot of patients to take care off.

Introducing the Use of Z-Band Wristbands

Although there are already many manufacturers who produce antimicrobial wristbands, there are still several features that set the Z-Band a cut above the rest of the wristband products. The Z-Band antimicrobial wristbands are the only bands sold in the market which contain antimicrobial coating. The coating helps protect the patient from any type of infection or disease which can circulate within the hospital environment.

The bands also contain durable barcodes, ensuring that the benefits of the band can last for a very long time. The code is printed using a thermal printer, which provides better quality compared to laser printers.

Here are some of the great features provided by the Z-Band wristband

  • Resistant to soap, foam, water, perspiration, chemicals and alcohol
  • Can be worn during diagnostic examinations such as the MRI
  • Easy to use with a pressure sensitive clip closure providing proper security

It is also worth mentioning that these bands also meet the guidelines provided by the American Hospital association. The bands are also tested to make sure they are safe to use inside the MRI device.

Selecting the Correct Barcode Scanner

Aside from using the best wristband, it is also necessary to invest on a quality barcode scanner. A great scanner should also be durable, portable, well-made and easy to use. The cost of the device can also be included to determine the perfect scanner to use for the hospital.

It is important that the scanner features the following characteristics

  • Ergonomic
  • Lightweight
  • Portable
  • Adaptable to all kinds of barcode
  • Easy to disinfect
  • Effortless to use

Honeywell Xenon™ 1902 Scanner, which works with Bluetooth connectivity, without impeding the staff’s activity around the patients is a good example of such a scanner. The Honeywell Xenon™ 1902 Scanner comes equipped with custom sensors, optimized for barcode scanning. With the TotalFreedom® 2.0 platform, which links multiple applications, Remote MasterMind® scanner management software, which allows the IT administrators manage multiple scanners from a single location, and the Bluetooth Class 2, v2.1 radio, which allows a range of 33 feet (10 m) from base, Honeywell Xenon™ 1902 Scanner plays a crucial role in the patients identification process.

One of the primary reasons of using a patient identifier wristband is that it can drastically minimize medical errors. Such errors do not only cause lawsuits and court settlements, but they can also place the patient’s life in jeopardy.

Although there are plenty of wristbands hospitals can choose from, the Z-Band antimicrobial wristbands are still considered to be one of the best due to their indestructible and antimicrobial coating properties. These bands will help nurses and other health providers keep track of the patient’s condition by maintaining an accurate documentation of the medications, diagnostic tests and procedures for the patient.