SADE database for endoscopic procedures: aspects of clinical use

Area of Science:

• Medical Informatics
• Gastroenterology
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Clinical database systems are increasingly adopted in specialized departments like endoscopy.
• The SADE database system was implemented in an endoscopy unit at Ullevål Hospital in 1989.
• Understanding the time commitment associated with electronic data management is crucial for efficient clinical workflows.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the time aspects of daily use of the SADE clinical database system in an endoscopy department.
• To quantify the time spent by physicians and assistants when using the database for endoscopic procedures.

Main Methods:

• The study observed the time spent by physicians and assistants over three consecutive weeks.
• Data was collected on the input time per patient for various endoscopic procedures.
• The average weekly workload of the endoscopy unit was documented.

Main Results:

• Physicians spent a mean of 4 minutes 17 seconds per patient, with significant individual variation.
• Assistants spent a mean of 4 minutes 23 seconds per patient.
• The total mean time spent per patient, including physician and assistant input, was 8 minutes 40 seconds.

Conclusions:

• The introduction of electronic database managers in endoscopy units necessitates a thorough analysis of departmental routines and needs.
• Time efficiency should be a key consideration when implementing and utilizing clinical database systems.
• Optimizing data entry processes can improve overall workflow in endoscopy departments.