Using Technology for Patient Safety

 

 

Medication Safety

 

 

McKesson ROBOT-RxTM (ROBOT-Rx)

 

ROBOT-Rx is a stationary robotic system that automates the drug dispensing process using bar code technology. Located in the central pharmacy at Gwinnett Medical Center, ROBOT-Rx automates the storage, dispensing, returning, restocking and crediting of bar coded medications. ROBOT-Rx assures that the right medication is dispensed for the right patient, frees pharmacists and technicians from mundane, repetitive tasks so that they may support more productive clinical activities and streamlines inventory management. This technology allows the Pharmacy Department to maintain high quality care and improve our efficiency and patient services.

 

 

 

Omnicell Automated Medication Dispensing Machines

 

 

Gwinnett Hospital System facilities use ATM-type cabinets with medications in patient care areas. These cabinets are part of a comprehensive medication distribution system from Omnicell Medication Systems. Medications that may be needed on a moment's notice are stored in these cabinets to ensure maximum patient care efficiency. Each cabinet is linked to the Pharmacy Department's main computer system. This interface to the Pharmacy information system provides caregivers with access to a patient's complete profile (list of current medications, allergies and other important information) and provides additional control by limiting access to only medication orders reviewed and approved by a pharmacist.

 

 

 

 

 

McKesson Horizon Admin-Rx™

 

 

 

Horizon Admin-Rx™ is a point-of-care application that helps caregivers improve medication safety. Gwinnett Hospital System is currently in the planning stages to implement this new patient safety technology. Documenting medication administration at the point of care is a key component in ensuring medication safety. Caregivers use hand-held scanning devices to identify themselves, the patient and medications at the point of administration. This technology provides a full-screen view of the patient’s medication profile, daily drug administrations and overall care unit reviews. It also provides an online clinical flow sheet documenting the patient’s vital signs, medication profile, administration, history and care comments.