The implementation of the ISBT 128 Transition Label is getting closer. As a customer, you’ll need to start preparing for this change now. The ISBT 128 Transition Label design is very different to the current product label. It will have an impact on your current processes, regardless of whether you move straight to the ISBT 128 Standard (upper portion) or use the Transition Zone (lower section). To help you identify some of the potential impacts on your facility, here are a few things that will change with the new label compared to the current Codabar release label.
1. Increased release label size: From 100mmx75mm to 100mmx125mm. This will change the placement of the label on blood packs.
2. Barcodes are in different positions on the label: This may impact how you store inventory. Refer to new barcode locations below:
3. Increased number of barcodes and different symbology: Transfusion nurses, scientists, specialists and anaesthetists should be notified and trained to ensure they’re aware of and understand the ISBT128 Transition label and which area will be used in your facility.
4. New function for phenotypes: Introduction of a new ISBT128 special testing barcode for phenotype and CMV information which is barcoded for scanning into configured IT systems.
Things to think about:
• Which portion of the ISBT128 transitional label will your facility use (ISBT128 portion or Transition zone)?
• Can your current IT system manage Code128 barcode symbology and the ISBT128 data change?
• How will your facility manage mixed inventory? There will be a period where the Blood Service will also be issuing mixed inventory until all units have been transitioned.
• Will your facility use the ISBT128 special testing barcode for phenotype and CMV information?
You can find further technical information about the transition label in the Australian Guidelines for the Labelling of Blood Components using ISBT 128 at transfusion.com.au/blood_products/blood_component_label or the International Council for Commonality in Blood Banking Automation (ICCBBA) iccbba.org