CareFusion became the first to land wireless data security certification for infusion devices under the Federal Information Processing Standard set by the National Institute of Standards & Technology.
FIPS compliance is now required for all infusion devices running on hospital networks owned by the U.S. Dept of Veterans Affairs, according to a press release.
The standard includes stringent wireless and physical security requirements and is designed to protect information, such as electronic health records, which is sensitive but not classified.
"We’ve been helping the V.A. network of hospitals deliver quality care for many years," CareFusion infusion systems senior VP J.C. Kyrillos said in prepared remarks. "This federal certification underscores CareFusion’s commitment to advanced technology that is designed to protect patient safety and confidentiality. In the event this wireless security requirement extends to other federal care providers, we are well positioned and ready to support provider needs."
CareFusion’s Alaris systems manager facilitates secure wireless communication between Alaris infusion pumps and a hospital’s wireless networks.
The Alaris pumps are comprehensive IV medication delivery systems that integrate a large volume pump, patient controlled analgesia, respiratory monitoring and barcoding capabilities. The new security measures aim to improve safety and reduce costs by allowing wireless management of transfusion data.