Klinikum EvB and Labor Potsdam ensure fast transport of patient samples

Diagnostik Ernst von Bergmann GmbH, to which Labor Potsdam belongs, and the Klinikum Ernst von Bergmann GmbH have invested in the automation of pre-analytical processes and successfully integrated the Tempus600^® transport system into the daily routine of the clinic.

Annually, almost 200,000 patient samples are sent from the emergency department to the laboratory, processed and analysed, and the results are transmitted to the emergency department digitally for further appraisal. Transport of the patient samples between the two areas is a central element of the pre-analytical process. A direct, fast and reliable connection is of the essence.

In just one week, tubes with an internal diameter of only 2.5 centimetres were mounted on ceilings and walls over a distance of 111 metres, and connection points for insertion and removal of the samples were created. This automated transport system now conveys the patient samples from the emergency department to the central laboratory in just 8.347 seconds. Previously, a courier service needed on average 7 minutes for the same distance.

Faster turnaround time dramatically improves the pre-analytical process

During the first 10 weeks, approximately 20,000 samples have been sent from the emergency department to the lab with the new transport system. When comparing the time from dispatch to the final test result, the turnaround time is 72% faster than with the conventional transport method.

“The transport of laboratory samples plays an essential role in ensuring fast and reliable diagnostics. The new transport system ensures safe transport directly into our laboratory, and thus represents a significant improvement in the pre-analytical process,” says Dr. med. Ines Vogler, Medical Director of Labor Potsdam, Diagnostik Ernst von Bergmann.

Hans-Ulrich Schmidt, spokesman for the management of Klinikum Ernst von Bergmann, adds: “Formerly, emergency department personnel first had to pack the test tubes securely for transport. Today, they can place the tubes directly in the Tempus600^® system. From there, an air current transports the tubes to the receiving unit in the laboratory in just a few seconds. This saves time, which can now be invested in patient care.”

The challenge

• Ensure reliable and fast transport of samples from the emergency department to the laboratory in order to reduce waiting time and continually improve patient care

The solution

• To install and implement Tempus600^® system as a direct connection from the emergency department to the laboratory

The benefits

• The quality of the samples is maintained
• Faster diagnosis due to reliable and safe sample transport

• Improved workflow due to reduced manual work processes

• More time can be invested in patient care

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