Get the Most Out of Your Label Printers in Your LTC Pharmacy

Forms and Labels
Written By Mitchell Ross

In the fast-paced world of long-term care pharmacy, efficiency is key. That's why reliable label printers like SATO and Zebra are essential tools for accurate medication labeling and dispensing. But just like any equipment, proper use and maintenance are crucial to ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

At SoftWriters, we understand the importance of keeping your label printers running smoothly. That's why we're sharing these helpful tips to help you get the most out of your SATO and Zebra printers in your long-term care pharmacy:

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

  • "Out of Paper" Error: Even when paper is present, this error can occur if your printer settings are misconfigured. Double-check your printer's defaults and preferences in the control panel and the web interface (for network printers) to ensure everything aligns.

  • Faded or Streaked Labels: A dirty print head can be the culprit. Regularly clean the print head strip with an alcohol wipe, especially when inserting new labels. If cleaning doesn't solve the issue, the print head itself might need replacement.

  • Drifting or Misaligned Labels: Worn rollers can cause label misalignment. Contact Sato or Zebra for scheduled maintenance or, if your printer has one, adjust the tensioner knob (typically found on higher-end models).

  • Cut-Off or Incomplete Labels: Misaligned labels can lead to information being cut off. Go to Utilities then Configure Forms Printer. Depending on the printer model, you might need to flip the label 180 degrees.

Regular Maintenance Tips:

  • Preventative Maintenance: Regularly blow out the printer with compressed air, especially after inserting new labels.

  • Cleaning: Keep the print head strip clean with alcohol wipes whenever you change labels.

  • Roller Checks: Monthly roller inspections are crucial. Look for flat spots or damage, and replace them as needed based on your printing volume.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure your SATO and Zebra label printers continue to operate at peak performance in your long-term care pharmacy. This translates to efficient medication labeling, accurate dispensing, and ultimately, improved patient care. With proper care and attention, your label printers can be reliable partners in your long-term care pharmacy for years to come.

Remember: It is important to invest in high-quality labels specifically designed for your SATO or Zebra printer model. This can significantly improve print quality and prevent compatibility issues. Learn more about how you can customize your labels for your pharmacy.

At SoftWriters, our Forms & Labels Team supplies our customers with competitively priced hardware and high-quality consumables created specifically for our pharmacy solutions. We are focused on customer service and use pharmacy-grade materials and adhesives for our labels and premium laser and carbonless laser paper. In addition to our label printers, we offer an array of hardware solutions to complement the FrameworkLTC suite. All of our medical records, labels, and hardware are tested and certified for FrameworkLTC. Here’s a list of the hardware offered:

  • SATO and Zebra thermal label printers

  • Zebra and Datalogic handheld barcode scanners

  • Socket Mobile portable scanners and Star Micronics thermal printers for FrameworkPOD

  • Zebra mobile computers for FrameworkFlow

  • Thermal printer replacement ribbons and cleaning kits

We hope these insights prove valuable. If you want to purchase hardware or label stock to call us, please do not hesitate to contact SoftWriters at forms@softwriters.com. We're always happy to help! You can also learn more at frameworkltc.com/forms-labels.

Resources:

SATO Contacts
Technical Resource/Support
Ray Carman Systems Engineer, Paramus, NJ
Phone: 704-644-1650, ext 1270
Cell: 980-263-7853
ray.carman@sato-global.com

Sales
Michael Sabatini, Regional Sales Rep
Phone: 914-944-1408

Zebra Contacts

Partner Portal: https://zebratechnologies.force.com/Partners/
Partner Phone: 866-322-5203
Knowledge Base: http://km.zebra.com/
Submit Technical Issue: https://www.zebra.com/us/en/forms/contact-ss-hardware.html
Phone: 877-275-9327 (North America)

To arrange for onsite support, someone will need to email onsite@zebra.com or call 866-435-8079

Mitchell Ross
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