The nurses at Humboldt District Hospital could have an easier and safer way to give out medications within a year.

The Humboldt District Hospital Foundation is seeking $200,000 in donations to help cover the cost of a PYXIS MedStation, executive director Lorrie Bunko said.

It looks and works like a vending machine, dispensing a medication after reading a barcode on a prescription.

It’s quicker and safer than the current routine of nurses handing out medications from med carts, Bunko said.

“A lot of these medications have such similar names and this way it’s very clear and concise about which medication you’re drawing.”

The system would be used for inpatients and in the emergency department.