Automated Dispensing Cabinets - Swisslog Healthcare (2024)

Narcotics, controlled substances, high-alert, and sometimes expensive drugs are stored exclusively in the sliding drawers of the MedSMART ADC, which are secure drawers with double-lock access. With ADC credentials and the access locks of both the drawer and the drug’s storage compartment, this physical hardware complies with JCI requirements of implementing a process for reducing the risk and harm of high-alert medications.

For an additional layer of security when storing and dispensing narcotics, hospitals have the option to implement the two-man rule to securely dispense controlled drugs only after verification by a second authorized user of the system.

So, when nurse A logs in the ADC to retrieve a narcotic, the system will prompt another authorized caregiver B to log into the system as a second set of verification before the system unlocks the drawer and storage location of the narcotic for nurse A to retrieve the drug.

Handling drug returns

Whether a drug will be returned to the cabinet stock or the return bin will be set up during the medication definition stage. A drug that is defined as going to the return bin will be sent back to the pharmacy so it can be redistributed to other wards in need of this drug. MedSMART ADC can manage both types of returns within its footprint.

Steps of returning drugs to the cabinet stock or return bin:

1. After logging into the ADC, the nurse selects the patient whose drugs were un-administered and clicks on the return button.
2. The screen will list previously dispensed medication for this specific patient and the nurse selects the drug to be returned as well as its returned quantity.
3. Select the return button again to confirm the returned drug and quantity.The return bin or the correct drawer will be unlocked (sequentially if returning more than one drug).
4. There will be on-screen and visual guiding lights to direct the nurse to where to return the drug.

Benefits at a glance

Automated dispensing machines digitize the process of medication handling at the hospital’s points of care. An ADC is an intuitive system that enables secure drug storage, supports accurate dispensing, and empowers drug traceability at various points of care within a hospital. This results in:

• Increased operational efficiency for both the nursing and pharmacy staff
• Improvedmedication managementpractices to increase patient safety
• Improved drug inventory to reduce medication waste and loss.

Choosing the right automated dispensing cabinet

Automated dispensing machines can be as simple or sophisticated as needed, depending on several factors such as number of line items to be stored, size of all drugs to be stored onsite, quantity to be stored, replenishment schedule, and the list goes on. To simplify the process of selecting an ADC that fits your needs, let’s evaluate the basics:

1. Where would you like to place the ADC?
2. How many line items do you need to be stored at that point of care?
3. Do you need secure storage (double-lock access) for narcotics and controlled substances?
4. Assuming a 5-day replenishment cycle, an ADC can store ~50 liters of liquid medication, do you need more?

Take the first step with our ADC Configurator to find out what would be a suitable combination based on these four simple questions and to receive a first price indication. If you prefer to speak with someone about your specific needs, book an appointment with your local expertand we can customize a system that meets your needs.