The Oulu University Hospital has launched a medication robot named Unto, following a two-year testing phase, making it the only one of its kind in the Nordic countries.
At the Oulu University Hospital in Finland, a medication robot known as Unto has been introduced after a comprehensive two-year testing period. This robot is unique in the Nordic region as it can communicate in real time with patient data systems, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of medication dispensing. The primary user, Anna-Kaisa Heikkinen, explained that the robot receives medication schedules from the Esko patient data system and assists the pharmacy in providing timely dispensation of medications.
The testing phase involved not just the integration of advanced technology, but also validation to ensure safety and reliability. Unto's project leader, Jaakko Mustakallio, highlighted the importance of this prolonged testing period, underlining the system's capability to operate safely before it could be fully deployed in patient care settings. During the trial, the robot also handled the distribution of sweets, showcasing its operational capabilities.
Currently, the robot is in a pilot phase with the cardiology department, and plans are in place to gradually incorporate more departments into its medication distribution system. The hospital aims to expand the use of Unto throughout the year, anticipating that it will streamline workflow and improve patient safety during medication administration.
