Abstract: A system and related methods of preventing wrong-site surgeries and sharps-related injuries to OR personnel, which includes a computer software program (for use on computers or hand-held devices in the medical environment) in combination with a surgical supply carrier. The surgical supply carrier may be associated with a patient's medical chart (e.g. integrally or otherwise attached to) and is configured to lockably receive therein one or more surgical supplies (e.g. instruments, implants, and/or essential components) needed for the patient's imminent medical procedure. The surgical supply carrier may further comprise an unlocking feature requiring at least two “keys” to unlock the carrier, with each “key” operating to verify that the correct surgical supplies are associated with the correct patient.

Abstract: Methods are provided for monitoring particulate flow distribution throughout particulate collection systems that employ collection vessels such as hoppers and feeders. The collection vessels are positioned in a grid pattern, and the amount of particulate collected from a given collection vessel is recorded as associated with that collection vessel's position in the grid, so that the particulate flow distribution can be analyzed. By analyzing the flow distribution, faults in the collection system can be discovered and addressed. Methods are also provided to ensure proper functioning of the emptying of particular collection systems employing hoppers that discharge particulate into feeders.