"Cleaning fluid has been injected into a patient before," Straeb pointed out, noting an example of an egregious medical mistake.

This system also helps reduce the potential for infection from cross-contamination by automatically preventing the injection of contents from a previously used RFID-labeled syringe in another patient exam. One dose, one unit, one patient is their motto. Additionally, the system indicates if the drug in an RFID-labeled syringe is past its expiration date and it automatically transfers drug and achieved exam protocol information, like its manufacturing date, concentration, and fill sizes, onto a printed label for the patient record.


"This is much safer, simpler, and gets the right stuff to successfully complete exams," said Lockwood.

With Covidien's system, technologists can conduct twenty five procedures a day and capture more information accurately.

"As facilities move at a faster rate, we migrate in innovation even more so, getting rid of manual data," said Lockwood. "We are the only integrated system out there that does all of this."

The contrast delivery system has been well received by its key customers and facilities, with an early positive response. "We expect this technology to be the platform for future innovation," said Steve Hanley, President, Imaging Solutions, Covidien.

Back to HCB News

More Voices