How RTLS Can Help Emergency Department Efficiency and Patient Satisfaction

 

In the high-pressure environment of an Emergency Department (ED), every second counts. EDs are often chaotic, with patients arriving in critical condition, clinicians juggling multiple cases, and medical equipment frequently in use across different areas. Delays in locating essential personnel or resources can lead to workflow disruptions, prolonged patient wait times, and, in some cases, adverse health outcomes.

 

This is where Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS) come into play. By leveraging RTLS technology, EDs can improve workflow efficiency, reduce bottlenecks, and enhance the overall patient experience.

 

Enhancing ED Workflow and Reducing Delays

 

Emergency physicians, nurses, and technicians are frequently pulled in multiple directions, often needing to respond to urgent cases on short notice. Traditional communication methods—such as overhead paging and phone calls—are inefficient, distracting and time-consuming.

 

RTLS enables real-time tracking of staff and patients, allowing clinicians to quickly locate colleagues, identify the closest available specialist, and ensure rapid response to critical cases. With a centralized RTLS dashboard or mobile app, staff members can instantly see where resources are needed most, eliminating the guesswork and significantly reducing response times.

 

Optimizing Equipment Utilization to Support Critical Care

 

In an ED, every second lost searching for equipment—whether it’s a crash cart, ultrasound machine, or portable ventilator—can delay life-saving interventions. With RTLS, ED teams can instantly locate and retrieve essential equipment, ensuring that no time is wasted searching for misplaced devices.

By implementing automated alerts, RTLS also prevents hoarding or misallocation of critical tools. This reduces wait times for equipment and ensures that all patients receive timely care, ultimately improving throughput in high-traffic ED settings.

 

Reducing Patient Wait Times and Improving Satisfaction

 

Long wait times are a major source of dissatisfaction for ED patients. RTLS helps mitigate this issue by streamlining patient flow, ensuring that clinicians and nurses can quickly see patient locations, track time spent in each stage of care, and identify bottlenecks that slow down treatment.

For example, RTLS data can indicate whether a patient has been waiting too long for a triage nurse or if a treatment room is available but unoccupied. By addressing these inefficiencies, EDs can reduce unnecessary delays and enhance overall patient satisfaction.

 

Tracking Face Time and Wait Time for Better Patient Experience

 

In emergency care, patients often feel anxious and vulnerable. One key factor influencing their perception of care is how much time they spend with a physician or nurse versus how long they wait in limbo.

RTLS enables ED administrators to measure and analyze patient wait times vs. face time with providers. By identifying areas where excessive waiting occurs, hospitals can adjust staffing schedules, modify workflows, and ensure that clinicians spend more time engaging with patients rather than searching for resources. This data-driven approach helps EDs continuously improve care quality and patient satisfaction.

 

Supporting ED Surge Capacity and Disaster Response

 

During mass casualty incidents, flu season, or other patient surges, EDs need to quickly adjust staffing and resource allocation. RTLS provides real-time occupancy and flow analysis, allowing administrators to monitor ED capacity and reallocate resources dynamically.

For example, if patient volumes spike unexpectedly, RTLS can help reroute patients to underutilized areas, ensure that additional staff are deployed where needed, and prevent hallway congestion. This level of visibility is critical in maintaining efficiency and delivering timely care during crises.

 

Leveraging Data Analytics for Continuous Improvement

 

Beyond real-time tracking, RTLS generates valuable analytics that help EDs optimize their operations. By analyzing movement patterns, patient flow trends, and resource utilization, hospital administrators can identify inefficiencies and develop targeted improvements.

For instance, if RTLS data reveals that patients spend too much time waiting for diagnostic tests, adjustments can be made to prioritize lab processing or redistribute imaging resources. Similarly, if certain staff members are overburdened while others have idle time, scheduling adjustments can be made to balance workloads.

 

 

Implementing RTLS in Emergency Departments allows for improving operational efficiency, reducing staff burnout, and enhancing patient care delivery. By streamlining workflows, optimizing resource allocation, and reducing search and wait times, RTLS enables emergency teams to focus on what truly matters—saving lives and delivering high-quality patient care.

 

 

Penguin Location Services offers a cost-competitive RTLS solution with emphasis on integrated solutions. To learn more about how Penguin can help you leverage location services for better outcomes, please send us an email us at [email protected]

Introduction

The healthcare industry is under constant pressure to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance patient outcomes. With rising operational demands, healthcare providers are turning to Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS) and IoT to streamline processes and gain actionable insights.

 

RTLS technologies, powered by RFID, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), NFC, Wi-Fi, and even QR codes, provide real-time visibility into assets, staff, and patient flow. As these technologies become more affordable and standardized, the return on investment (ROI) is becoming clearer, driving renewed interest in RTLS adoption across hospitals and clinics.

 

Key RTLS Technologies in Healthcare

RTLS is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Different technologies serve different use cases, and choosing the right one is essential for maximizing impact. Here’s a look at the most prominent RTLS options in healthcare today:

• Passive RFID – Ideal for tracking assets, patients, and even linens at specific checkpoints or during inventory audits. Offers cost-effective batch scanning but lacks real-time tracking.
• BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) – Available in multiple versions (4.0, 5.0, and 5.1), BLE provides real-time tracking with varying accuracy. The latest BLE 5.1 standard enables sub-meter precision, making it suitable for indoor navigation, staff tracking, and high-value asset monitoring. However, performance depends on the implementation.
• QR Codes – A simple and cost-effective solution for equipment maintenance, patient engagement, and workflow automation. The location is determined by the scanning device, limiting its tracking capabilities.
• Wi-Fi RTLS – Leverages existing hospital networks for facility-wide tracking with zonal-level accuracy. In many cases, activating RTLS capabilities requires additional software licenses from Wi-Fi vendors.
• NFC (Near Field Communication) – Provides secure access control and allows for instant retrieval of patient data with a simple tap, ensuring efficiency in critical healthcare scenarios.

 

The Shift Toward Hybrid RTLS Solutions

Today’s leading RTLS providers are moving towards hybrid solutions, combining multiple technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) to offer a unified system that benefits various hospital departments. With the rise of AI, healthcare organizations can now integrate RTLS data with predictive analytics, unlocking new levels of efficiency and optimization.

 

The Impact of RTLS on Healthcare in 2025

Unlike traditional healthcare technologies, RTLS delivers value through both direct and indirect improvements. Whether it’s enhancing workflow efficiency, improving patient safety, or reducing operational costs, the ultimate goal remains the same—better healthcare outcomes.

 

Key RTLS adoption drivers gaining momentum in 2025 include:

• Enhanced Safety – Real-time monitoring ensures staff safety by enabling rapid emergency response and tracking movements in high-risk environments.
• Increased Efficiency – RTLS enables improved patient flow with smart rooming, reduces time spent searching for critical assets, and streamlines hospital workflows.
• Cost Savings – Hospitals can minimize inventory loss, reduce equipment redundancy, and optimize resource utilization, leading to significant return on investment over time.

 

Embracing the Future: AI-Driven, Standards-Based RTLS

In the past, highly proprietary RTLS solutions created vendor lock-in, limiting flexibility and driving up costs. However, the landscape is rapidly changing. Today, standards-based RTLS systems offer cost-effective, scalable solutions that can be gradually deployed across healthcare facilities.

Moreover, the integration of AI-powered analytics is redefining how hospitals interact with RTLS data. With platforms like ChatGPT and DeepSeek, users now expect chat-like interactivity with RTLS systems, moving beyond simple room-level tracking to intelligent, predictive location insights.

 

At Penguin, we advocate for AI-driven RTLS solutions that combine standardized hardware with intelligent algorithms—ensuring healthcare providers receive future-proof, affordable solutions that solve real operational challenges.

 

As RTLS continues to evolve, its potential to transform healthcare operations is only just beginning. Organizations that embrace scalable, data-driven location intelligence today will be well-positioned to drive better patient outcomes, optimize resources, and improve overall efficiency in the years to come.

By: Mohammed Smadi, PhD

2024: A Year of Client Success and Collaboration

As the year comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the incredible milestones we’ve reached in partnership with our clients. At Penguin Location Services, we’ve always aimed to go beyond delivering solutions—we strive to make a real difference by solving meaningful challenges. This year, our journey has taken us farther and deeper into this mission than ever before.

 

Delivering Solutions That Matter

2024 has been a year of growth and innovation, driven by the needs of our clients. Here are a few highlights:

• Expanded Navigation Coverage: We’re proud to have extended our navigation solutions to cover over 15 million square feet, moving beyond traditional indoor navigation to include campus-wide capabilities. This growth allows our clients to offer seamless navigation experiences that truly enhance user satisfaction.
• New Offerings to Meet Emerging Needs: In response to client feedback, we introduced digital kiosks, workforce safety solutions, and hand-hygiene compliance tools. These additions reflect our commitment to evolving alongside our clients and addressing the challenges they face.

 

Global Reach, Local Impact

This year, we strengthened our ability to deliver meaningful results:

• By serving clients across four continents, we demonstrated our capacity to adapt to diverse operational environments and challenges.
• With new offices established in five countries, we’re now closer to our clients than ever before, providing localized support and ensuring smooth project implementation.

 

Raising the Bar in Technology

Our clients rely on us to innovate, and in 2024, we delivered. We developed the world’s most accurate Bluetooth-based, sub-meter, room-level RTLS solution, setting a new standard in our industry. This advancement enables us to address critical pain points with precision and reliability.

One client shared that we’ve “restored [their] faith in BLE as an RTLS technology,” a recognition that inspires us to continue raising the bar.

 

A Partnership-Driven Approach

Our clients are at the heart of everything we do. Their trust and collaboration push us to innovate, refine, and deliver solutions that matter. This year has reinforced the power of partnership and the shared commitment to achieving great outcomes.

To our clients: thank you for trusting us with your challenges and for allowing us to be part of your journey. Your successes inspire us every day.

 

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we step into 2025, we’re excited about what lies ahead. We’re ready to tackle new challenges, deepen our collaborations, and continue driving innovation that makes a difference.

To the Penguin Location Services team: thank you for your dedication, resilience, and hard work. Enjoy your well-deserved time off this season—we have another exciting year ahead!

Here’s to building on this year’s momentum and achieving even greater things together.

Infection prevention is crucial in healthcare, protecting both patients and staff from harmful germs. Healthcare-Associated Infections, sometimes called Hospital-Acquired Infections (HAIs)have been found to affect approximately 750,000 people in the United States annually, causing thousands of preventable deaths and costing US healthcare providers billions of dollars.

Here are some of the top priorities we’ve identified for healthcare facilities:

Top-Quality Hand Hygiene Products

Hand hygiene is the first defense against infections. Using high-quality products like alcohol-based sanitizers and antimicrobial soaps helps keep hands clean and reduces cross-contamination. These products are essential for maintaining a hygienic environment, ensuring that pathogens are eliminated effectively with each use.

Reliable PPE Usage

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and gowns is essential for protecting healthcare workers and patients. It’s vital to ensure a steady supply and consistent use of PPE to prevent infections. Proper training on the correct use and disposal of PPE further enhances its effectiveness, creating a safer environment for all.

Touchless Restroom Dispensers

Touchless dispensers for soap, water, and paper towels cut down on surface contact, reducing the spread of germs. They’re convenient and help keep everyone safer. This technology not only minimizes the risk of cross-contamination but also promotes better hygiene practices among staff and visitors.

Convenient Hand Hygiene Stations for Staff

Placing hand hygiene stations throughout facilities makes it easy for staff to clean their hands before and after patient interactions, helping to stop the spread of infections. Strategic placement of these stations ensures that hand hygiene becomes a seamless part of the healthcare routine.

Accessible Hand Hygiene Stations for Patients and Visitors

Having hand hygiene stations in high-traffic areas and patient rooms encourages everyone to keep their hands clean, contributing to a safer environment. Clear signage and easy access help to promote regular use, making hand hygiene a shared responsibility.

Enhanced Disinfection Practices

Regularly disinfecting high-touch surfaces, equipment, and patient rooms with EPA-approved disinfectants keeps the facility clean and safe. A rigorous cleaning schedule, combined with the use of advanced disinfection technologies, ensures that potential pathogens are consistently eliminated.

Monitoring Hand Hygiene Compliance

Using technology to track hand hygiene compliance helps ensure everyone follows best practices. Real-time data from RTLS (Real-Time Location Systems) technology can provide valuable insights. Penguin’s digital platform, for example, combines sensor-equipped dispensers with real-time tracking of staff locations, offering comprehensive oversight and proactive monitoring.

Accelerating Safety Compliance with Digital Platforms

Integrating digital monitoring platforms accelerates safety compliance by providing real-time tracking and measurement. This technology ensures that staff adhere to hygiene protocols, with sensors in dispensers tracking usage and staff movement. Such systems allow for immediate corrective actions, maintaining high standards of hygiene.

Ongoing Staff Education and Training

Educating healthcare professionals on infection prevention is vital for maintaining safety in healthcare settings. Proper training gives staff the knowledge and skills they need to effectively prevent infections. Training programs cover a range of topics, including proper hand hygiene(wash-in and wash-out), PPE usage, and environmental cleanliness. Continuous education keeps healthcare workers updated on the latest guidelines and practices, helping them stay prepared for new challenges.

Encouraging Good Hand Hygiene

Recognizing and rewarding staff for good hand hygiene practices boosts compliance and promotes cleanliness. Easy access to hand sanitizers and soap dispensers throughout the facility is key. By acknowledging those who consistently adhere to hygiene protocols, facilities can foster a culture of excellence and care.

Conclusion

By focusing on these measures—like using quality hand hygiene products, reliable PPE, thorough disinfection, and advanced monitoring systems—healthcare facilities can significantly reduce infection risks. These strategies create a safe environment for patients, visitors, and staff, allowing facilities to deliver care confidently and safely. Accelerating compliance through digital platforms enhances these efforts, ensuring that hygiene standards are met consistently and efficiently.

At Penguin Location Services, we offer cost-effective solutions for monitoring hand hygiene compliance.

Every hospital can benefit from better practices in patient flow—even minor improvements can make a meaningful impact. Here are tips for improving patient flow and creating a healthier, happier, and safer facility. Here are 4 tips to help hospitals improve patient throughput:

1. Increase Communication and Goals Across All Hospital Departments

Patient throughput must be addressed on a whole-hospital level. Every part of the hospital is connected, and the cause of a patient flow issue or bottleneck may occur several steps before its noticeable effect. For instance, a patient flow problem in the inpatient units may result from issues with discharge procedures. Therefore, all hospital staff members, including nurses, physicians, and administrators, must understand the objective of improving patient flow and the processes required to accomplish related goals.

The first step to improving patient flow is to create a team with representatives from every department. This team will identify issues, set goals, and oversee changes. They can start by drawing a patient throughput diagram to map the current design and measure performance, asking questions such as:

• Are there any bottlenecks with the current patient flow process?
• Are all the steps in the current flow necessary?
• Can some of the steps be completed simultaneously?
• Is there a better way to sequence the steps?
• Can someone with fewer skills perform a particular step?
• What technology can be used to make steps easier?

After identifying problem areas, the team should set goals. For example, the hospital can adopt technology like Penguin’s RTLS-enabled Workflow applications to improve communication and streamline processes. Location-enabled workflow solutions consist of wearables for staff, patients, and medical equipment, providing real-time data and integrating with other healthcare technologies to automate clinical processes.

2. Tighten Up Non-Clinical Services That Support Patient Care

Non-clinical staff members significantly impact patient flow. These include staff in transportation, housekeeping, billing, and administrative tasks. Management should evaluate non-clinical activities and find ways to improve their speed and efficiency. Here are tips for non-clinical services:

3. Uncover Blind Spots With Real-Time Location Data

Healthcare professionals often use data from systems like EHR to determine how long each step takes and improve workflows. However, this approach can create blind spots by failing to account for time between patient steps. Penguin’s Workflow Solutions can help uncover these blind spots by automatically collecting real-time patient throughput data. RTLS badges worn by patients provide real-time arrival-to-discharge data, allowing staff to modify processes as they happen.

Examples of Healthcare RTLS benefits:

• Ambulatory Practice: Real-time queuing creates an orderly, compliant registration and rooming process.
• Entire Patient Visit: Patient Tracking Systems measure patient wait times and notify staff of extended waits, enhancing efficiency.
• Radiology and Imaging: Real-time knowledge of patient arrivals maximizes service delivery and minimizes wait times.
• Operating Room: RTLS Insights measure OR turnaround time accurately, notifying team members when rooms are ready and updating patient families automatically.
• Communicable Diseases: Healthcare RTLS supports workflow redesigns to limit pathogen exposure and enables virtual waiting rooms with contactless check-in and self-rooming.
• Contact Tracing: Healthcare RTLS provides data for efficient contact tracing and follow-up actions for staff and patients.

4. Track and Streamline Cycle-Time Measurements

Cycle time measures the duration of any process in the hospital, such as patient registration to discharge. Efficient cycle times improve patient throughput and reduce the need for additional resources. Leaders should follow the patient journey through the ED, using RTLS to gather real-time insights automatically. This data helps identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies, enabling hospitals to make informed adjustments.

Additional tips to reduce cycle time:

• Staff to meet demand: Ensure the ED has enough staff during peak times to meet patient demand.
• Ensure supplies are easy to find: Use asset tracking to show staff the exact location and condition of critical resources.
• Improve registration: Reduce check-in time by minimizing questions and using self-check-in/registration technology.

Increase Patient Flow in Hospitals With Penguin

When patients visit a hospital, they should feel cared for, safe, and appreciated. Staff should feel confident they have the resources, skills, and time to provide the best care possible. Technology like Penguin’s Healthcare RTLS helps reduce stress and simplify tasks for staff so they can focus on what matters most: patient care.

Hospital managers considering RTLS should reach out to Penguin. Penguin offers robust, easy-to-implement Clinical Workflow Applications to improve patient throughput and employee satisfaction. With Penguin, hospitals can reduce costs and increase efficiency as patient volumes continue to grow. To learn more, request a demo or contact us today.