to maximize uptime and reliability. This includes the network of antennas, Wi-Fi access points, and other hardware required to support the transmission and reception of signals within the RTLS environment. Software/Application The software or application functions as the interface for managing and monitoring the RTLS system. It runs on a dedicated server or cloud-based service that can handle the volume of data generated by the tags and receivers and allows users to view live location data, set up zones, and generate reports. The software also provides a dashboard that displays the location and status of all assets in real time. The dashboard can be accessed from any internet-enabled device such as a laptop, tablet, or phone.
within their facilities. This data can help healthcare administrators identify bottlenecks, streamline work- flows, and optimize resource allocation to improve operational efficiency and patient throughput. KEY COMPONENTS OF AN RTLS SYSTEM An RTLS system consists of several key components that work together to enable location tracking and management. These components typically include: Tags/Beacons/Transmitters These are small devices attached to or embedded within objects, assets, or individuals to track their location. Tags can use various technologies such as RFID, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or GPS to transmit signals. Receivers/Nodes/Access Points These are devices installed throughout the designated area to receive signals from tags and determine their location. Receivers may also perform signal processing and transmit data to a central server. Receiver/nodes capture the signals emitted by the tags/beacons and transmit them to the central server for processing. The nodes are typically mounted on the ceiling tile grid or walls (See Figure 2).
view of each patient’s health status and history, all- owing for more informed clinical assessments and treatment decisions. The adoption of EHR systems brings numerous benefits for patients, healthcare providers, and healthcare organizations alike. EHR systems offer patients improved access to their health information, empowering them to actively participate in their care decisions, track their health status, and communicate effectively with their healthcare providers. EHR systems also enable healthcare providers to deliver more coordinated and personalized care by providing a comprehensive view of the patient’s medical history and enabling collaboration between interdisciplinary care teams.
to communicate include options such as legacy wired connections in which the medical device would come equipped with a built-in Ethernet or USB port that allows them to be directly connected to the hospital network. Another more advanced method is wireless connectivity. For example, many modern infusion pumps and ventilators come equipped with Wi-Fi, BLE, or other wireless capabilities. By connecting to the hos- pital’s converged wireless network, these devices can communicate with the EHR system without the need for physical cables, enabling greater flexibility and mobility for healthcare providers. Wireless communication del- ivers real time transmission of patient data, alerts, and alarms directly to the EHR system from anywhere within the facility. Barcode Scanners Barcode scanners are used to scan barcoded patient wristbands, medication labels, and other healthcare patient items, enabling healthcare providers to acc- urately capture and record data in the EHR. Scanning barcodes helps prevent medication errors, ensures pro- per patient identification, and enhances medication management processes. By combining real-time physiological data from medical telemetry eco-systems and location services with patient records from EHR systems, healthcare providers gain a complete view of each patient’s health status and history, allowing for more informed clinical assessments and treatment decisions.
Other components include a central server/cloud platform, user interface, powering methodology (e.g., PoE batteries), and more.
THE RISE OF ELECTRONIC HEALTH RECORDS (EHR) SYSTEMS
Another constantly evolving healthcare innovation is Electronic Health Records (EHRs) systems. EHR systems are equipping healthcare providers with a unified and interconnected ecosystem of software, devices, and technology that deliver effective and superior patient records. EHR systems are reshaping how patient data is collected, stored, and accessed. From a healthcare provider perspective, EHR systems streamline clinical workflows, reduce administrative burden, and enhance patient safety by eliminating the need for manual documentation and reducing the risk of medication errors or duplicate tests. EHR systems support evidence-based practice by providing real-time access to clinical guidelines, decision support tools, and health data, enabling the medical staff to deliver more effective and efficient care. Telemetry data and real time location systems (RTLS) can now be integrated into EHR systems. By combining real-time physiological data from medical telemetry ecosystems and location services with patient records from EHR systems, healthcare providers gain a complete
Network Infrastructure The network infrastructure is another critical
component of RTLS technology. The receiver nodes communicate with the central server over an Ethernet or Wi-Fi connection. The network must be designed and installed with redundancy and fault tolerance in mind
DEVICE INTEGRATIONS As an EHR is fundamentally one large data file, any device could be enabled to write into a patient’s EHR. The following are common device integrations seen in current practice: Medical Monitoring Devices A wide range of medical monitoring devices such as cardiac monitors, pulse oximeters, blood pressure monitors, and glucose meters can transmit real-time patient data directly to EHRs. This allows healthcare providers to track patients’ vital signs and health metrics without manual data entry. Technologies used
FIGURE 2: An example of a ceiling-mounted node installation.
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