The UK’s NPSA (National Patient Safety Agency) have released a statement that says the pre-printing of patient labels in any form is unsafe. The statement covers all pre printed labels and Laser A4 sheets that can include wristband and label set combinations. The advice addresses issues that has long been a concern to many within the NHS and is being sent out to all UK hospitals.
The statement said…
“The NPSA considers that printing several labels with patient details at one time, so that they can be used at a later time for the patient’s care, is unsafe. Labels should be printed only when required for the patient’s care and, where electronic systems permit, by the bedside so that the risk of the label being used for another patient is minimised. “
Please feel free to add your comments to any of the items you see, we would be delighted to see some debate on the site and to hear your opinion.