A context-aware monitoring system based on real-time locating system (RTLS) technology can provide information on the location of medical equipment and staff, according to an article on the Health Facilities Management website.

A successful deployment of context-aware systems should include careful analysis and integration with other technologies, such as nurse call, security, admission-discharge-transfer and telemetry systems, the article said. 

Because many of these systems use wireless radio-frequency systems, it is critical that the hospital's wireless environment be checked to avoid potential interference.

The hospital wireless systems require detailed coordination, and consist of many different wireless environments. These can include Wi-Fi, distributed antenna systems and wireless telemetry in addition to the RTLS/RFID systems. 

A thorough investigation of the wireless spectrum within the hospital should be completed as part of the planning and design process.

A detailed design of all wireless systems in the hospital is essential to the successful deployment of RTLS technologies.

Read the article.