The latest technology is being used at the Royal United Hospital in Bath to further improve the safety of patients undergoing blood transfusions.
The RUH has invested in a new system called BloodTrack Tx, which uses wireless technology to securely verify a patient’s identity when administering a blood transfusion.
Transfusion Specialist Helen Maria-Osborn said: “The new technology has been a great success and is making the blood transfusion process even safer for our patients.
“We already have systems in place to ensure that blood transfusions at the RUH are as safe as possible and this new technology is an important additional step.”
A portable scanner reads a code on the patient’s hospital wristband, which contains a range of information about the patient, including their blood type.
This provides an additional level of safety for them, ensuring they get the right blood at the right time.
The handheld devices are connected to the RUH’s laboratory systems and can also be used to generate barcoded labels for transfusion blood test bottles.
Helen said: “Today is World Patient Safety day, which aims to increase awareness of patient safety and encourage people to show their commitment to making healthcare safer.
“Patient safety is vital to our work here at the RUH and this new technology will help our patients get the best possible care.”
Transfusion Nurse Trainer Lindsey Palmer added: “The technology is now being used across the hospital and has been very well received by staff, who have welcomed it as a secure and easy-to-use part of the transfusion process.”
To mark World Patient Safety Day, an information stall was set up in the Atrium at the RUH so patients and staff could find out more about the patient safety projects taking place at the hospital.
A blood transfusion is when you’re given blood from someone else. On average, the RUH gives around 125 units of blood every week through transfusions.