Patient safety is a top priority for every hospital, and a key component of this is patient identification. Proper identification reduces risks such as misidentification, miscommunication, and errors in health records. Identification methods include wristbands, labels, and forms that link the patient to the hospital’s Health Information System.
The importance of wristbands
Wristbands play a crucial role in patient identification. They are unique to each patient and vary based on factors like length of stay, printer environment, patient application requirements, and special care needs. They provide readily available and accurate patient information at every point of care. Therefore, the selection of the appropriate wristband and the information printed on it are vital for maintaining patient safety and minimizing the costs associated with misidentification and errors.
Common errors in patient identification
Despite the importance of proper identification, errors can still occur. Some common issues include:
Missing wristbands
The initial setup and ongoing performance of printers are crucial for barcode wristbands. Recurring printer jams can disrupt patient flow, frustrate staff, and add costs. Two main printer systems, Direct Thermal and Laser, are used, with two sub-groups under Direct Thermal: Roll and Cartridge.
Wrong charts or notes in files
Sometimes, the wrong patient’s charts or notes might be placed in another patient’s files, leading to confusion and potential harm.
Administrative issues
Errors in data entry, miscommunication among staff, or other organizational problems can lead to identification errors.
Wrong labelling
Incorrect labels on patient samples, medications, or other items can cause serious issues.
Similar patient names
Accurate patient identification can be challenging when patients have similar names, leading to potential medication mix-ups.
Inaccurate or incomplete patient information
Incorrect or incomplete information collected from the patient can lead to identification errors.
Miscommunication among healthcare staff
Miscommunication or misunderstanding among healthcare staff can result in patient identification errors.
Wrong Patient Identification: This can occur for several reasons and can lead to detrimental healthcare outcomes, opportunities for medical identity theft, patient data integrity failure, and more.
Consequences of identification errors
These errors can lead to adverse events such as medication errors, unsafe surgical procedures, healthcare-associated infections, diagnostic errors, patient falls, pressure ulcers, unsafe blood transfusion, and venous thromboembolism. Therefore, accurate patient identification is crucial for patient safety.
Durability and scanning barcodes
The barcode on the wristband is unique to each patient and linked to the hospital information system. It needs to be scannable at every point-of-care and durable throughout the patient’s hospital stay. Any issues with the barcode can be time-consuming, frustrating for staff, and pose a risk to patient safety. Ensuring a clear print of the barcode and reviewing the wristband’s durability are essential steps.
Remember, the seemingly small wristband plays a significant role in patient safety!
Get in touch
For more information on the BRENMOOR range of products, to arrange a trial or to locate your local supplier call 0845 807 1090 or +44 (0) 1535 656 439 from overseas or contact us by email.
For samples of any of our Patient ID solutions please complete our sample request form.
Notes to editors:
- BRENMOOR are UK based designers, manufacturers and suppliers of innovative patient identification solutions
- They supply over 70% of UK hospitals with patient identification products including their patented printed hospital bracelets and a range of hospital labels
- Recent product launches have included their MHRA compliant blood bag tag
- They have partnerships with a number of medical supply companies in Europe, the Middle East and Africa to distribute BRENMOOR products to a wider audience
- All BRENMOOR products are designed to ensure that the right patient receives the right care and prevent deaths and injuries from misidentification
- All Patient ID products are available Direct from BRENMOOR, through NHS Supply Chain and from one of our Worldwide Distribution partners
A BRENMOOR printed hospital wristband is applied to a patient somewhere in the world every 4 seconds to ensure that they stay safe and remain positively identified!
