NOTIS: an operating theatre information system

Solutions to straightforward resource management problems need not always involve the use of complex, specialised and expensive software solutions. Commercially available 'off the shelf' packages have increased in flexibility and ease of use, and are usually an order of magnitude cheaper than their custom designed counterparts. In response to a request for a low cost database suitable to be used on a stand-alone microcomputer system, the widely available integrated software package Smart was used. The program specification required quantification and analysis of the workload in a medium sized operating theatre suite (at 6,000 cases/year) to be undertaken. In addition to providing Database, Spreadsheet and Wordprocessor modules, each with rapid and easy exchange of data from one module to another, Smart incorporates its own programming language. This may be used to build up complex series of instructions for data manipulation, to generate menus and create a naive user front end to the finished program. Although an adequate knowledge of database construction and basic programming are necessary, professional programming skills are not required. NOTIS, the Newham Operating Theatre Information System, is a menu driven program designed to be used by clerical staff, and accepting patient data derived from within the operating theatre. At the end of each month a set of predetermined reports are produced. These reports are designed to provide information on the workload, case type and medical personnel involvement applicable to theatre managers, anaesthetists and surgical staff.