5 July 2016
All inpatients with a known allergy will now receive a red wrist band upon admission into NHS Borders hospitals.
The purpose of these wrist bands is to ensure patients are treated safely and effectively. Sight of a red wrist band will prompt healthcare staff to seek further information from patient notes regarding any allergies to make sure that patients are treated accordingly.
Julia Scott, Clinical Governance & Quality Facilitator: Patient Safety at NHS Borders said: “Patient safety is our number one priority at NHS Borders. The introduction of these wrist bands is another way we can make sure that our patients receive the best high quality care tailored for their exact needs.”
She added: “The absence of a red wrist band will not be used as a certainty that a patient has no known allergies. Clinical staff will confirm allergy information regularly. When being treated please be sure to let a healthcare professional know of any allergies you have.”
For more information about patient safety visit: http://www.scottishpatientsafetyprogramme.scot.nhs.uk/.