Evaluating a Fingerprint System to Improve Patient Identification in Cardiac Surgery
The purpose of this prospective observational pilot study is to evaluate the usability, workflow integration, and operational feasibility of a fingerprint-based patient identification system (the Heuristik system) within perioperative cardiac surgery care. Accurate patient identification is a critical component of safe surgical care, particularly in high-acuity environments such as cardiac surgery where patients may be sedated or unable to actively confirm their identity. This study evaluates whether biometric fingerprint identification can function as a reliable adjunct to standard hospital identification methods. Adult patients receiving cardiac surgery care at Brigham and Women's Hospital will continue to be identified using the hospital's mandatory standard procedures, such as wristband verification. In parallel, participating clinical staff will use the fingerprint device for research evaluation at routine identification checkpoints, including admission, pre-operative preparation, surgical safety time-out, post-operative recovery, and discharge. The research team will observe workflow timing metrics and evaluate system accuracy compared to standard wristband checks. Participating healthcare professionals will complete a standardized System Usability Scale (SUS) questionnaire and a brief interview to provide feedback on ease of use, acceptability, and workflow fit. The study is observational and does not alter medical care, clinical decision-making, or treatment plans.
Adult patients (aged 18 years or older) scheduled for or undergoing perioperativ... [+3]
Individuals under 18 years of age. [+2]