Lab Specimen Collection and Patient Safety

In 2016, a multidisciplinary team at Barnes Jewish Hospital participated in a Rapid Improvement Event (RIE) to improve accuracy of lab specimen identification and armband scanning compliance across the hospital.  Barriers to Positive Patient Identification (PPID) were identified in the current state along with an action plan to remove barriers.  After addressing a system for accountability and a standard process for PPID Specimen Workflow, the number of Wrong Blood in Tubes (WBITs) decreased which ultimately increases patient safety.