Ruth, When I was a PRHO we trialled the use of a PSION organiser to keep
patient lists with working diagnosis and investigations on. The handheld
just had simple demographic info (name DoB and patient no) but it was linked
to the hospital computer via a serial link (this can be wireless now as IR
or bluetooth). The hospital network then provided further information such
as address, GP details. The end result was a discharge summary that was
actually readable unlike the carbon copy versions which become faint below
the top sheet.
I think if handhelds are to be used then they should be fully utilised as
handheld computers and not as digital handbooks, just replacing paper for a
screen! If fully utilised a hand PC can provide:
1. Digital version of department guidelines and SHO handbook, eBNF,
Toxbase.
2. Links to useful formulas and diagrams I.e. burns/fluid calculator,
Parvolax regime, BMI, QTc, anion/osmolar gap.
3. Patient management via wireless links to the department network and
may include X-ray and lab ordering, TTOs.
4. Discharge summary or easily edited GP letters and printed off through
wireless link.
5. A logbook for cases and procedures both at SHO and Reg level.
6. Internet access via handheld to databases and sites i.e. Toxbase.
7. Download rotas and training programme easily into a standardised diary
format.
Problems that may be encountered may include Data protection of patient
information on the handheld. This may be solved by password protection.
While Psion is a British firm and many of the programs support British
formulae and units, the Pocket PCs and handheld programs will be driven by
the US market (the old epinephrine/adrenalin and pounds/kilos argument!).
I think Hand PC are useful if they have the right software and support.
There may be scope for professional organisations to develop programs that
would be useful, i.e. common A&E formulas. The SpR logbook/portfolio is
also being revised and there may be scope to have an electronic version that
could be edited and printed off. It may be a potential project for some
computer whizz! Does it come under Research or Clinical Effectiveness?
Steve Bland
SpR A&E
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Brown, Ruth" <[log in to unmask]>
> To: <[log in to unmask]>
> Sent: Saturday, June 29, 2002 5:31 PM
>
>
> > We are looking into using handheld computers in the department at St
> Mary's
> > and I wonder if anyone out there has experience of using this technology
> in
> > an A&E department. Specifically, have you used them for access to
patient
> > information on the network or only for providing guidelines etc at point
> of
> > care. If you are using them, have you any data or evaluation that you
> would
> > be willing to share with us here on the pros and cons. Thanks Ruth
> >
> > Ruth Brown
> > Consultant in Emergency Medicine
> > 0207 886 6574
>
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