Publication Title
2026 WIN Conference
Document Type
Presentation
Publication Date
2026
Keywords
california; plcmmc
Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of the project was to increase compliance with interoperability workflows through implementation of barcode scanning using the Rover app. The goal was to streamline electronic medical record (EMR) programming and overcome workflow challenges.
Background: Infusion interoperability links EMR systems with smart infusion pumps to streamline programming and monitoring. Orders are sent directly from the EMR to the pump, nurses verify settings, and infusion data is relayed back for documentation, reducing manual input and enhancing patient safety by minimizing errors. Current interoperability workflow includes the use of handheld scanners located on computers.
Hospital benchmark for interoperability compliance was set to 95% or higher. Monthly pharmacy safety medication reports revealed that hospital wide infusion interoperability compliance was 82.9%, indicating the need for an intervention. Evidence indicates that implementing portable handheld devices improved scanning compliance and minimized workaround practices. Workarounds identified included confined room configurations, frequent transitions between infusion pumps and workstations on wheels, and the accessibility of medication bar code scanners and workstations. Incorporating handheld devices enabled nurses to directly view programming alerts and warnings on application screens, thereby empowering them to manage infusions more safely and effectively.
Methods/Approach: This quality improvement project sought to improve nursing compliance rates with interoperability workflows on two Medical-Surgical units through implementation of barcode scanning using the Rover app between December 2024 through June 2025. While scanning is required for interoperability, use of the Rover app was recommended. The Alaris Interoperability Mobile (AIM) Project collaborated with shared governance, Nursing Professional Development, local IT, and regional informatics to ensure seamless integration of the Rover app with existing systems. Pre-intervention efforts involved training superusers, distributing informational process videos, updating mobile devices, and collaborating with department leadership to schedule superusers for both day and night shifts. Real-time training on use of the Rover app was facilitated by easily identifiable super-users wearing distinctive AIM project t-shirts. Superusers were stationed on the units to assist staff and to address challenges. Project progress was communicated monthly through flyers and emails, along with individual interoperability scanning compliance reports. Recognition of high-performing users assisted with sustaining staff engagement. Analyzing data from the medication safety dashboard helped the project identify recurring issues and key areas to focus on. In the final project month, staff were surveyed on app usage, barriers, and support received.
Results/Outcomes: Monthly compliance rates for the medical unit ranged between 81% to 90% with a nine-month average of 85%. The TeleOncology unit ranged between 83% to 93% with an eight-month average of 88%. Feedback from the post-project survey indicated that nurses frequently utilized the Rover app in scenarios where workstations and scanners were inaccessible or when room configurations hindered the use of workstations on wheels. Many nurses supported extending implementation of the AIM project across the hospital.
Conclusion & Implications:
The introduction of the Rover app increased scanning compliance, which decreased risk for medication errors, and increased patient safety.
Specialty/Research Institute
Nursing
Comments
References
Baptiste, D., et al. (2020). Implementation of the Epic Rover App to Improve Barcode-Assisted Medication Administration Compliance among Nurses in the Adult Emergency Department Journal of Informatic Nursing, 5(4).
Fair, L., et al. (2023). Improving Medication Safety in an ICU A nurse-led initiative increases compliance with barcode scanning administration. American Journal of Nursing , 123(7), 39–45.
Kelly, K., et al. (2016). Creating a Culture of Safety Around Bar-Code Medication Administration. JONA, 46(1), 30–36.
Mulac, A., et al. (2021). Barcode medication administration technology use in hospital practice: a mixed-methods observational study of policy deviations. BMJ Qual Saf, 30(1), 1021–1030.
Van Ornum, M. (2018). Improving Bar Code Medication Administration Compliance in a Community Hospital Through a Nursing Leadership Initiative. Journal of Nursing Care Quality, 33(4), 341–347. https://doi.org/10.1097/NCQ.0000000000000320