Automated Patient Handoff System with ID Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current handoff protocols in hospitals are manual and prone to errors, leading to delays and potential health risks due to inaccurate and inconsistent information transfer during patient transportation, lacking efficient and automated systems for ensuring safe and accurate patient handoffs.
Innovation Solution
A computerized system that generates and automates handoff protocols based on patient conditions, using image data verification of patient identification tags to ensure accurate patient identification and progression through the handoff process, integrating graphical user interfaces and sensor data to prevent improper handoffs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual handoff protocols are used with paper forms and telephone calls, then the system is simple and easy to operate, but errors and delays occur due to manual completion and review processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical processes (paper forms, telephone calls, physical checklists) with an automated computerized system that generates and manages handoff protocols electronically. The system automatically creates checklists, tracks completion, and manages approvals without manual intervention in the core processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by automatically generating handoff protocols based on patient data, prompting users to complete required steps, and tracking completion status without requiring manual system management. The protocol adapts and updates itself based on real-time handoff progress.
2Productivity
If manual checklists and human supervision are used to verify patient information, then the system requires minimal technology, but additional review time is needed and mistakes still occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous feedback by automatically tracking checklist completion status, verifying required information is present, and preventing progression to the next handoff stage until all necessary steps are completed. The system provides real-time feedback on what has been done and what remains.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-generating handoff checklists based on patient data before the actual handoff occurs, identifying all required verification steps in advance, and preparing the protocol structure beforehand to guide the handoff process efficiently.
3Reliability
If automated computerized handoff systems are implemented, then handoff accuracy and patient safety improve, but the system complexity and implementation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves universality by creating a single integrated computerized platform that performs multiple functions: generates handoff protocols, creates checklists, tracks completion, verifies information, manages approvals, and communicates with users across different devices. One system replaces multiple separate manual processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system acts as an intermediary between patients, transporters, and receiving units by providing a centralized digital platform that manages all handoff communications and verifications, reducing direct manual coordination requirements between human operators.
4Ease of operation
If traditional paper-based transport requests are used, then the system is simple to deploy, but intense time pressure and distractions cause staff to miss mistakes in patient information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces paper-based mechanical systems with electronic digital interfaces that automatically display patient information, required verification steps, and completion status, eliminating the need for staff to manually read and interpret paper forms under time pressure.
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment provides a method including transmitting a pick-up request to transport a patient within a healthcare facility. The method includes receiving an acceptance indication for the pick-up request that has an associated handoff protocol that is based upon a condition of the patient. The method includes generating a patient identification request requesting a scan of an identification tag of an individual. The method includes receiving image data and determining whether the image data includes an image of the identification tag. The method includes verifying an identity of the individual. Other aspects are described and claimed.