A new way to check out and return procedural scrubs will enhance safety, accountability and efficiency.
Starting in late September or early October, new dispensary machines for green procedural and surgical services scrubs will replace the previous machines at their existing locations.
The new machines will be stocked with scrubs with heat-pressed RFID (radio-frequency identification) tags that more easily track inventory of the scrubs. The system will know who has how many pairs of scrubs checked out and can identify those who may accidentally have sharps or other items left in pockets of returned scrubs for additional follow-up education opportunities. The new system also will help ensure scrubs are collected for colleagues who leave the organization.
“The RFID technology of the new system will not only allow for easier dispensing and return of scrubs but also allow us to be able to trace sharps and other objects left in the scrubs to increase our understanding and put better safety measures in place,” said Scott Miller, director, procedural-surgical services.
To use the new machines, a colleague will have to first register:
- Register here.
- Enter the code fqtbHbxC.
- You will then be prompted to complete a form to specify the sizes of scrubs you need.
- Once registered, swipe your ID badge to gain access to the cabinets in the machines.
Each cabinet will contain an assigned inventory by size and piece, shirt, pants and jacket. Colleagues are asked to only take one pair at a time. The RFID on the scrubs is captured and associated with the individual. If the individual opens the cabinet, sees a stack of scrub tops, and takes more shirts than their allotted credits, the RFIDs will scan for all items removed, and an email of the discrepancy will be sent to their manager and the Linen Department.
With the new system, accountability of individuals required to wear hospital-owned scrubs will include a manager, representative or educational coordinator from each department. These individuals will be associated with the scrub registration information and assigned a role in the scrub system software.
When the scrubs are returned to the machine’s receiver, the colleague’s scrub account will be credited so they can check out scrubs the next time they need them. The scrub must be the same scrub dispensed to the user to receive credit, as each is individually identified.
If you have any questions about the new scrub vending process, contact Jammie Parrott, associate manager, EVS, at 402-552-3249, or Theresa Richardson, director, EVS, at 402-559-4591.