Application of radio-frequency identification in perioperative care.

Every perioperative department could benefit from having an information system that facilitates managerial function and improves efficiency in the OR. The Patient Advancement Monitoring System-Surgical implemented in a hospital in Taipei, Taiwan, is one such a system that uses radio-frequency identification technology for tracking perioperative care of patients along workflow checkpoints. This web-based medical information system can facilitate care provided throughout perioperative services by providing instant patient information to staff members in cross-functional health care teams. Manpower is not wasted on duplicating data entry because the surgical progression is displayed in real time. Satisfaction with the system has been high for both nurses and administrators.