The pneumatic tube system is a proven method of medical delivery within hospitals. Given the strains the pandemic is putting on hospital systems, the pneumatic tube system is more crucial than ever. In 2021, almost all hospitals and health institutions in the US reported having trouble obtaining supplies. Pneumatic tube systems work like a subway system inside hospital walls, with sensors to ensure that each transport gets to its destination. Carriers travel through tubes that link stations, floors, and sometimes even entire buildings. This is one way that businesses are being more efficient.
The tube system can maintain the security and traceability of controlled substances and combine them with automated dispensing for even greater efficiency. Without relying on a staff courier, tube systems have specialized carrier inserts to protect samples from breaking and RFID tagging to help reduce labeling errors. By prioritizing delivery, this system poses a lower risk of running out of inventory within the department while units are traceable to help ensure they reach the assigned patient. Furthermore, as tube systems provide 24/7 transport, they reduce reliance on human couriers and time lost navigating a busy hospital.
As one hospital floor, in four weeks, experienced zero medication errors with the pneumatic tube system versus another floor that experienced 16 medication errors without this system, tube systems lessen costs, and help lighten staffing shortages, all while providing excellent care.
Source: Swisslog Healthcare
Also published on Medium.
