that contain a barcode, new systems use lasers to mark instruments
directly with a scannable code.
For RFID systems, each instrument receives an RFID tag. As the
instrument is brought through the various areas of the sterile processing
department, it's automatically tracked by strategically placed RFID sen-
sors. Not only does this help eliminate time spent on scanning individual
instruments or sets, but techs know in an instant whether all of the
instruments are contained in a set before it is sent out to the OR, elimi-
nating the need to complete count sheets manually.
The benefits of RFID tracking systems can even extend beyond the
sterile processing walls. At least one vendor I've spoken with offers
technology that lets you equip your ORs with RFID sensing technolo-
gy, which can be used to help with instrument counts before, during
and after surgery.
There are also new systems designed specifically to help your staff
track loaner sets. These systems can save you time and money, especial-
ly if you're in a facility that manages a high-volume of loaner trays for an
ortho-heavy caseload. The scanning technology helps you check in the
loaner sets, documenting their arrival with photos, and improves the
overall communication between the sterile processing department, the
OR and vendors.
Whenever a vendor brings in loaner instruments, they use the
kiosk to check in the tray, which logs the time it arrived, which
case it's being used in and a photo capturing exactly which items
are included in the set. It's also able to capture the instruments'
IFUs for your sterile processing staff. Compared with manually
logging each tray as it arrives, the loaner management software is
a much more efficient option. The platform also provides evi-
dence of exactly what was in a set the vendor brought into the
facility if they claim instruments are missing when they come to
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