ReAL WiFi
IEEE 802.11, the Wi-Fi standard, refers to a set of Wireless LAN / WLAN standards developed by the working group 11 of the IEEE LAN/MAN Standards Committee IEEE 802. 11 WLAN technology now comes with active 802.11 RFID transceivers that transmit signals over wireless networks to locate each device at any given point of time. The matchbox-sized devices, or "tags," can be attached to mobile hardware or users' clothing. The technology includes a location software that enables administrators track hardware or users with RFID transceivers located anywhere within the Wi-Fi network.
Workflow:
The tag transmits over the wireless LAN and the intelligence in the LAN triangulates to work out the location within the hospital to a distance of 5m. A simple search facility on a PC or PDA enables users to easily locate an asset’s position in real time. Historical information stored on the asset utilization over a period of time assists in analyzing its behavior. The system can be impeccably integrated with existing applications such as asset management and security alarms.
Benefits:
- Reduced equipment costs: Purchase and rental costs can be reduced as faulty/unused/misplaced equipment can be identified and brought back into service. Better information is available to support procurement decisions. Additionally, improved maintenance by due dates helps avoid legal liability claims.
- Reduction in theft: Theft can be considerably reduced as alarms are triggered when assets are moved. As a result, the thieves are discouraged being cognizant of the fact that the assets are tagged.
- Reduction in work delay: The time consumed rummaging for assets can be reduced
Factors affecting the patients:
Additionally, and perhaps more importantly, there are a number of non-tangible benefits directly affecting the patient:
- Enhancement in patient safety: Audit trails of equipment use can be used to track MRSA outbreaks and the patients would be treated with well maintained equipments.
- Improved patient care: More time could be spent by the medical staff, treating the patient, resulting in quicker responsiveness to critical events via faster access to the medical equipments.
- Improved employee satisfaction: Improved morale which helps reduce the staff attrition
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