Your Stories: New Color-Coded Cards Enhance Radiology Departments Workflow

Close up shot of color-coded cards.

The Color-Coded Card System is designed to put a heightened focus on patient identification. Aside from colors brightening up the work environment, the function of the cards goes beyond “looking pretty.” The process ensures that the right test is performed on the right patient. This in turn improves accuracy, workflow, as well as patient and colleague safety. 

The colors are specific to each modality. Here is a breakdown:

• X-ray/Fluoroscopy = Blue
• MRI = Orange
• Ultrasound = Yellow
• CAT Scan = Green
• IR (Interventional Radiology) = White
• Nuclear Medicine = Red
• Mammography = Pink
• Bone Density = Purple

The radiology team embraced this new process because it puts patient safety first and showcases a high reliability culture. “This initiative is a great example of the strong collaboration between Radiology and Quality Risk Management,” said Crystal Coulombe, BA, RT (R) (M), CPXP, Director of Imaging and Cardiology. “Our team is always looking for innovative ways to enhance patient care, and the color-coded card process is a creative, out-of-the-box solution that improves safety and efficiency.”

The new Color-Coded Card System starts at the Radiology front desk for patient check in. When patients come in, they will now get their face sheet with the appropriate color-coded card. Whichever color card the patient has will now serve as a visual cue for colleagues. “I'm incredibly proud of the radiology department for embracing such a simple yet impactful improvement,” Crystal shared. The new system is already in effect and has enhanced workflow since its inception.

Submitted by Sharon Lescadre, BSN, RN, Safety, Quality & Performance Improvement, Saint Mary’s Hospital

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