Implementing RFID in Healthcare

Table of Contents

Introduction3

Background3

Project Scope & Cost4

Literature Review4

Conclusion6

References7

Implementing RFID in Healthcare

Introduction

The project tends to propose RFID technology into healthcare. RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. By exploring some factual and relevant information relating to the analysis of RFID, to expand the boundaries of our knowledge is the purpose of this study. Gaining more and more space in our lives every day is the technology of radio frequency identification (RFID). With numerous applications in various sectors, such as the e-passport, waste management, storage identification, access control, retail, pharmaceuticals, identification of persons or animals, production, logistics etc, it is a revolutionary and powerful technology. In this study, the research will examine how RFIDS can be implmented, and used to improve the quality and efficiency of healthcare organisations, their products and services.

Background

RFID is a viable alternative to both the strong authentication technologies based on the recognition of biometric attributes of an individual and the traditional technologies of personal identification (badge). This technology does not require visual contact for the recognition and identification (Want, 2006). Automatically checking the attendance list within a given area, RFID can be used to distinguish inputs from outputs. The tags can be inserted or printed into objects of different shape, such as an identification barcodes, photographs, logos, lettering, and badge. Information can be recorded as: transit time and date, photo ID, personal data, etc. In some cases, only in the presence of machine operators does it allow the operation of an equipment or machine (Espejo, 2009). By preventing unauthorized usage or stop working if the area does not have an authorized operator to ensure the safety of persons or the machine itself, such equipment may require special procedures.

Project Scope & Cost

In healthcare, RFID has countless applications but the specific application, under focus, for this project work will baby tagging. A small tag is fitted around the ankle of a baby. The tag contains a built-in radio transmitter. During the period the tag is active, it will send signals at regular intervals so that the staff will know it is functioning properly. The system that the tag is monitored by will generate an alert if the tag is not sending any signal. A hospital designates an area safe for the tag to operate. Usually this area is restricted to maternity wards. If the baby is taken out from the safe area or is near to the exit, the ...