Covidien Integrates RFID in Contrast Delivery System
The existing contrast delivery system from Covidien was updated to incorporate radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. The goal of adding this functionality is to reduce the potential for medical errors.
The Ultraject unit-dose syringes, which are pre-filled with contrast media, have RFID incorporated. The power injector from the company, Optivantage DH, was also updated and is now available as an RFID-enabled system. The tool prepares a pre-printed label which includes treatment and dosing information for placement in a patient’s chart.
The RFID technology support an interface between the two contrast delivery system components. This provides technologists with an additional step to ensure that patients receive the prescribed concentration of contrast media and that it is delivered during the correct timeframe of a given procedure.
The RFID label can be modified after use, reducing the likelihood that an empty syringe will be used multiple times. This prevents the possibility of life threatening events resulting from air embolisms or injections. It further reduces the chance of cross-contamination of contrast media material. The RFID system also ensures that expired syringes will not be used.
This technology is an automatic identification system that captures data, as well as stores and transmits data between the two system components. This is the first contrast delivery system in the U.S. to incorporate RFID technology.
July 31, 2008 Related topics: Product Launches, Imaging, Quality, Safety, Errors, Nuclear Medicine, Standardization