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A 24-hour ordering system for clinical examinations.
K Fujisawa1, K Akazawa, Y Hayashi
1Kyushu University Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan.
Summary
A new 24-hour clinical examination ordering system utilizes multi-function workstations, enabling physicians to place orders anytime. This system improves efficiency by allowing off-hours ordering and streamlining data transfer to the host computer.
Area of Science:
- Medical Informatics
- Clinical Laboratory Science
Background:
- Traditional clinical examination ordering systems often have limited operating hours.
- Physician access to order tests can be restricted outside of standard working times, potentially delaying patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and implement a 24-hour ordering system for clinical examinations.
- To enhance physician convenience and workflow by enabling off-hours test ordering.
Main Methods:
- Utilized multi-function workstations (IBM5550) operating as both on-line terminals and personal computers.
- Implemented a data transfer system where inpatient information is moved from a host computer (IBM4381) to workstation diskettes overnight.
- Physicians input orders via a touch panel with Chinese character prompts; specimen labels and order forms are printed instantly.
- Nighttime order data is transferred back to the host computer the following morning for merging and processing.
Main Results:
- Physicians can now order clinical examinations at any time, including nights and holidays.
- The system automates the printing of specimen labels and order forms.
- Consolidated data from both on-line and off-line ordering is provided to laboratory technicians.
Conclusions:
- The developed 24-hour ordering system significantly increases physician flexibility and saves time.
- This system enhances the efficiency of clinical laboratory test ordering and processing.