Frequently asked questions for a VeriLink RX.
Q. Does the instrument include a standard library?
A: The VerilinkRx systems comes with a built-in library of roughly 40 common narcotics from various manufacturers at several different concentrations. It’s an easy protocol to add new narcotics to your reference library. This procedure is addressed in the VerilinkRx SOP.
Additionally, we have a list of over 200 different narcotics (also various manufacturers/concentrations) that have been well characterized by our current VerilinkRx customers. This list will help you set up appropriate pass/fail criteria for new reference library items.
Q: Does each scan save in the machine? Can notes be taken on each scan (associate a provider, time, etc.)? Where does it save (cloud vs. on the machine)?
A: Each measurement can be stored either on the instrument itself, or you can connect the VerilinkRx to your network and store measurement data there.
You can customize the data that is recorded with each measurement. Our basic setup requires input of the name of the employee that turns the sample in to the Pharmacy lab, the ID number/name of the sample handler on the floor, and the patient number/name associated with the narcotic.
Q: Does the device connect to Wi-fi?
A: VerilinkRx is not Wi-Fi compatible. However, there are a couple of different options for the computer that controls the instrument. The base option is to use our computer and monitor. Another popular option is to connect the working optics module directly to one of your hospital’s computers via a Rudolph Research Analytical “computer bridge.” The instrument’s controlling software then resides on your computer. Some hospital IT departments prefer this option, as it allows them to control security updates.
Q: How long does it take to calibrate? Does calibration need to be done with every use?
A: Calibration on the instrument should be verified daily. This is a very quick procedure, less than 5 minutes, and the calibration fluid is sterile hospital water.
The refractive index values of water and fentanyl are nearly identical. The VerilinkRx has superior temperature control and very high accuracy, enough to determine the difference between the two. We recommend that when measuring fentanyl that the instrument is zeroed on water before measuring fentanyl. This will be demonstrated during our pending online demo.
Q: Do you have to use a known medication and concentration for sample prior to testing?
A: Yes, the VerilinkRx delivers a simple “Pass” or “Fail” message at the end of a measurement. A “Fail” result will also give an approximate level of dilution (for example, “Sample has been diluted 50% with water.”)
Q: How much volume of the sample is needed to test?
A: Less than 500 ul. Additionally, if you introduce the sample with a syringe and needle, you can recover nearly all of the sample back into the syringe if you have very limited sample.
Q: What type of warranty is given with the devices and does it include upgrades?
A: The VerilinkRx comes with a standard 2 year warranty. Additional warranty periods can be purchases prior to the warranty expiring.
We strongly suggest an annual Preventive Maintenance contract be established, which provides for one of our field service engineers to visit annually to fully inspect and calibrate the system. Included in the annual PM agreement is a free software upgrade to incorporate any software enhancements Rudolph Research has created for the VerilinkRx system.
Q. If I find an unlabeled syringe, can I determine what’s in it?
A: No. The system is designed to compare your measured sample against a known reference. An unknown sample should be sent to a lab for full analysis.
However, you might be able to make an educated guess. Assuming the unknown sample has not been diluted in any way, you can measure the sample and determine its RI value. Then you can check this RI value against the known RI values in your reference library and make an assumption about what corresponding narcotic might be in the vial. This should always be confirmed by a lab test.