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Hand-held computers in clinical audit: a comparison with established paper and pencil methods
1Rampton Hospital, Nottinghamshire, UK.
International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance
|December 9, 1993
Summary
Electronic data collection using hand-held computer terminals significantly improved efficiency and reduced errors compared to traditional paper methods. This technology offers a cost-effective solution for healthcare auditing and data processing.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Informatics
- Clinical Auditing
- Health Information Management
Background:
- Traditional paper-based data collection in healthcare settings can be time-consuming and prone to errors.
- Evaluating the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of new technologies is crucial for improving healthcare processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the performance of hand-held computer terminals with paper and pencil methods for data collection.
- To assess the impact of electronic data collection on time factors, error rates, ease of use, and financial implications in a hospital setting.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study was conducted on two hospital wards and in a medical audit unit.
- Performance metrics included time factors, error rates, ease of use, and financial implications.
Main Results:
- The electronic system demonstrated significant time savings compared to paper methods.
- Reduced staffing costs and lower error rates were observed with the electronic system.
- The hand-held computer terminals showed unit-wide potential for efficient data collection.
Conclusions:
- Electronic data collection via hand-held terminals offers a cost-effective and flexible system for healthcare auditing.
- The adoption of this technology can lead to substantial improvements in operational efficiency and data accuracy.