Sterile service traceability: Labelling and documentation systems for sterile service departments

Sterile service traceability is a crucial factor in ensuring patient safety.  Any instrument that has been sterilised and re-packaged must conform to strict protocols to minimise the risk of Healthcare Associated Infections (HCAIs). This means that users need a proper system of labelling and documentation.

In this month’s blog, we look at two options available for users who want to integrate a labelling and/or documentation system into their heat sealing packaging process. Let’s take a closer look.

VeriDoc labelling system

Hawo’s VeriDoc is a labelling system aimed for use in sterile service departments as well as doctor’s and dentists’ surgeries. It consists of a mini printer and a scanner which can be used to print labels. These labels can include important information such as date of expiry and temperature of the seal.  No computer or any other peripheral IT equipment is needed, making it extremely easy to install. Using the VeriDoc labelling system can greatly improve your level of sterile service traceability.

ProDoc documentation system

Another option that you can consider is the ProDoc by Hawo, the world’s leading heat sealer manufacturer.

ProDoc is a piece of software that monitors and documents the sealing process. This is important for users who need to comply with ISO 11670-2. This quality standard specifies that the critical parameters for producing a seal should be monitored and documented. ProDoc allows users to ensure fully compliant documentation which includes all the necessary information. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Date of processing.
• Expiry date of package.
• Temperature of the heat sealer at time of sealing.
• Instrument identification number.
• Personnel identification number.

All of the sealing protocols are digitally signed and archived securely.  Data exported to PDF which means the user is unable to make any unauthorised alterations to the data.

ProDoc can be installed electronically, directly to your PC via a download link on the Hawo website.

Hawo offer a free 30-day trial of the ProDoc system. This means you can try it and see if it is right for you before you commit to paying any money. All you have to do is connect your heat sealer to your PC, using a USB to RS-232 cable. The ProDoc software works with many different Hawo heat sealers including their flagship hm 950 DC-V/VI NanoPak and their vacuum chamber machine hv 321 K-V MediVac.

How Henderson Biomedical can help with sterile service traceability?

Henderson Biomedical is the UK distributor of Hawo products. As such, we are able to supply both the VeriDoc and ProDoc products to users based in the UK. If you have any questions about these two products, please feel free to contact us by calling 020 8663 4610. Alternatively, you can email us at sales@henderson-biomedical.co.uk or you can complete our online form.