Could the introduction of a single-use RTLS patient tag yield significant improvements to hospital workflow efficiencies, or is Sonitor's new P-Tag more of a convenience add-on for overworked staff? Rolled out in late August, the outer shell-cased active ultrasound wristband tag weighs in under an ounce, doesn't require cleaning, and offers a core that can be used over and over again.

Measuring 1.4 x 1.5 x 0.7 inches, the battery-powered wireless device fits any standard patient wristband or lanyard by snapping the shell into place. Then the unit begins transmitting a unique identification code using ultrasound in the frequency range of 35-45 kHz at configurable transmission intervals. A Sonitor IPS Detector picks up and transfers the tag ID code to a server, leveraging the hospital's wired or wireless LAN, which stores the tag's location and the time-stamp information in its database. Users can access the tracking info from a variety of mobile devices--including laptops, tablet PCs and smartphones--by using third-party apps.

While ultrasound has been touted as a more accurate alternative to RFID and Wi-Fi-based RTLS, it's interesting that the main selling points for the P-Tag center around its disposability (feature) and convenience (benefit). Assuming the leading RTLS vendors all deliver solutions that yield similarly accurate tracking results, you have to wonder if the concept of a one-shot RTLS tag borders brilliance in its simplicity, or if it's just a clever gimmick. You tell me.