Intravenous line identification system

Abstract

An intravenous line identification system includes a plurality of sets of at least two identifying tags, each set used for identifying a medicinal source and a medicinal output for one of a plurality of intravenous lines. Each set is provided with a highly visible color distinct from every other set. Each tag in a set is coupled to another tag in the same set by at least one frangible or decouplable connection. Each tag further has an opening enabling the tag to be inserted over the intravenous line, and a preferably circular hole, about which the tag holds the intravenous line. For each intravenous line, the tags are applied over the intravenous line as a set, i.e., while coupled. Once on the intravenous line the tags are decoupled from each other and slid in opposite directions along the line toward the medicinal source and output. A number of benefits are provided by the system. First, due to the high visibility of the tags, quick identification by a health care worker of a medicinal source to an output is possible. Second, because the tags are provided to the intravenous line while coupled together, any risk of misidentification of a line is eliminated. Third, setup of the identifying tags on an intravenous line is rapid, as the tags may be quickly placed over the line and separated. Fourth, the tags may be used with currently existing intravenous lines.