Which of the following ensures controls around patient identification for imaging systems?

Bar-coded patient identification is an essential control mechanism for ensuring patient safety and accuracy in imaging systems. This technology relies on unique barcodes assigned to each patient, allowing staff to quickly and accurately scan patient information at various points in the healthcare process, including when preparing for imaging procedures.

The use of barcodes minimizes the risk of human error associated with manual data entry, as it relies on scanning technology to automatically retrieve the correct patient record. This helps in ensuring that the right patient is matched with the right imaging studies, thereby reducing the chances of mix-ups or misidentification. Additionally, barcode systems often integrate with electronic health records (EHR), allowing real-time updates and access to comprehensive patient data during imaging, which enhances overall patient care and operational efficiency.

In contrast, the other options like the number of patient admissions, a manual entry system, and comprehensive record audits do not specifically address the immediate and practical controls needed for accurate patient identification in imaging systems. The number of admissions is more about volume and does not relate to identification controls. A manual entry system is prone to errors and does not provide the safety net that barcoding does. While comprehensive audits are essential for quality control and compliance, they are retrospective and not a preventive control mechanism like bar-coded identification