In this article, we will show you how to combine smart crash cart and barcode to build a digital modern hospital. barcode scanner on smart crash cart can help hospitals improve operational efficiency, reduce human error, improve medical safety, and respond faster to code blue.
1. What is Barcode for Drugs and Medical Supplies?
The GS1 barcode is a globally standardized system widely used for managing pharmaceuticals and medical supplies. This barcode includes the following key information:
•Product Identification Number (GTIN): A unique number identifying specific drugs or supplies, essential for tracking products.
•Expiration Date: Embedded in the barcode, ensuring expired drugs are not used, preventing healthcare risks.
•Manufacturing Number (Batch Number): Includes batch information, allowing tracking if there are issues with a specific batch.
•Packaging Quantity: Useful in stock management for high-volume drugs and supplies.
By scanning barcodes, this information can be instantly retrieved, reducing errors from manual input and accelerating the flow and use of drugs.
2. The Importance and Benefits of Barcodes in Medical Field
In the medical field, the use of barcode technology improves work efficiency and reduces accidents caused by human error. Many medical accidents are caused by misidentification due to similarities in drug names and appearance. By using barcodes to scan drug information, the risk of misusing drugs with similar names and packaging can be minimized.
Barcodes also improve the traceability of drugs. The distribution process of a drug is documented at all stages from manufacturing to patient use, and can be quickly traced and acted upon in the event of a problem. This improved traceability also has a significant impact on drug recalls and interaction monitoring.
3. Barcode Recognition with Smart Smart Cart
Smart crash cart is an example of the digitization of medical equipment using barcode technology. Time is extremely valuable in emergency medical situations. By scanning the bar code of a medication, the Smart Crash Cart allows the user to instantly view detailed information about the medication (name, dosage, indications, etc.) on the spot. This enables healthcare professionals to provide fast and accurate treatment.
Furthermore, Barcodes also improve the traceability of medicines. Every step of the drug’s journey, from manufacturing to patient use, is recorded, allowing for rapid tracking and response in the unlikely event of a problem. This improved traceability also has a significant effect on drug recalls and drug interaction monitoring.
4. Japan’s Initiatives
In Japan, barcode technology has been advancing in the healthcare field. In 2006, the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare issued a directive mandating that all pharmaceuticals shipped after September 2008 include a new barcode. This effort aims to standardize and digitalize drug distribution management.
Additionally, the Ministry is developing a nationwide pharmaceutical database set to go live in 2027. This database will integrate production, distribution, and usage data for pharmaceuticals, allowing nationwide tracking. Japan hopes that this initiative will help mitigate the growing issue of personnel shortages in its aging society, while also enhancing medical traceability.
Previously, the management of pharmaceuticals was largely handled independently by private companies or hospitals, resulting in slow progress. The government has recently taken a leading role, promoting a public-private partnership to accelerate the development of a digital healthcare system.
Conclusion
The introduction of barcode technology for medicines and smart crash cart has greatly contributed to the efficiency of medicine management and safety in the medical field. By using smart crash cart, medical staff can instantly check detailed information about medicines, reduce human errors, and track the history of medicine use.
