Deployment of a wireless sensor network to support and optimize logistical processes in a clinical environment

The paper describes the development and the deployment of a wireless sensor network to support and optimize logistical services within a hospital. The deployment consists of a whole system that serves as a generic platform, which can be easily adapted to new scenarios. This is shown on two disparate scenarios: handling and management of blood products (patient safety) and management of mobile medical devices (asset management). The focus of the paper are the smart objects, a wireless sensor network which serves as mediator between real world (activities, environment and linked objects), the information systems and the people.