Resources

In busy healthcare settings, not much is said about the quality of healthcare labels, unless the labels leave something to be desired. In most cases, if that “something” exists, it has to do with one of the three basic elements of a label: the facestock, the adhesive, or the liner. That’s why we’re taking time to familiarize first-time label users — or healthcare workers who are ordering labels for the first time — with the importance of each of these elements.

1. Facestock

The facestock of a label is where the information is printed, whether it’s simple information such as a solid color for coding or detailed data such as prescription instructions. Before you select a facestock for your labels, it’s important to answer the following questions:

• What type of label printer do you use?
• What will the labels be used for (prescriptions, specimen storage, patient charts, etc.)?
• Under what conditions will the labels be used (temperature, moisture, duration, etc.)?

Answering these questions will help your supplier produce stock or custom healthcare labels that are a perfect fit for your printing system, label applications, and conditions for label use.

2. Adhesive

Because it’s responsible for keeping the label affixed to the object, the adhesive of a label is just as important as the facestock. Before you select labels that have a certain type of adhesive, consider the following questions that pertain to adhesive performance:

• Do you need labels to stay permanently in place or be easily removable?
• Do you want adhesive strength to increase over a certain period of time and/or with physical pressure?
• Under what conditions will the labels be used (temperature, moisture, duration, etc.)?

Label adhesive falls into two general categories: permanent and temporary. However, there are important subdivisions in the categories. For example, labels that are used for cryogenic storage need adhesive that’s formulated for the cryogenic temperature range, and labels that need to be initially temporary and later permanent require a special adhesive.

3. Liner

The liner you remove labels from won’t play a role in the final application, but it can play a crucial role in preserving the quality of label adhesive. In addition, it impacts the efficiency with which label placement can be performed automatically by machine. Before you place an order, answer the questions below that pertain to the liner:

• How long do you plan to store labels before using them?
• Under what conditions do you need to store the labels?
• What type of automated labeling system do you use or plan to implement?

The liner for rolls and sheets of healthcare labels is an often overlooked element of label quality. It plays an essential role in preserving labels and impacts the efficiency with which labels are placed.

Need Assistance Selecting Labels?
Unless you know exactly what type of healthcare labels you need in terms of the facestock, the adhesive, and the liner, it’s important to consult a labeling specialist before ordering. If you need some help, please call us today at (800) 323-0249, or use our contact form. We look forward to learning about your organization and helping you choose the right label options!