Importance

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Abstract

A system apparatus and method of monitoring in a secured fashion the access, storage and retrieval of information, using a networked modular wireless device. The system may include a network of wireless, Wi-Fi devices (or any other wireless communication mechanism such as GPRS, GSM, iDen), or Nodes, each one of them possibly controlling the access to a medically sensitive object, such as a drawer (or cabinet) or to a medical device, or to another information source, item of equipment, drug, etc as well as tracking via RFid readers the access to the records or information contained in it. In the case of a physical file, each file has an RFid tag on it that is being read when removed or returned to the cabinet. Access to the cabinet and physical records, or to the medical device is monitored by reading the RFiD identity card of personnel accessing the cabinet or medical devices. In addition to controlling the access to the cabinet or medical device by controlling the cabinet lock (or in the case of a small medical device, the lock of an IV, injection device, specimen collection unit, or of a large medical device such as a defibrillator), the node can alert electronically by sending a message to the controlling unit, or by sending a physical alert (such as an alarm signal), when unauthorized personnel is attempting to access the cabinet, the files or devices. The system is useful in the context of monitoring the information contained in physical files, such as medical information, and can be used for access to medical devices, in order to better monitor the authorization rights of personnel participating in processes such as drug delivery or specimen collection. A control unit monitors activity at a plurality of nodes, and assists in storing the list of authorized personnel and files, and can store electronically captured information regarding the physical files (for example, the reason for accessing the file and reasons for changes in it) or medical device. The system can communicate with other information management systems.

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First Claim