Computerization of a preanesthetic evaluation and user satisfaction evaluation.

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Health Informatics
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Preanesthetic evaluation is crucial for reducing patient morbidity and mortality.
• Evolving healthcare standards necessitate updated approaches to medical information management and perioperative care.
• Concerns exist regarding documentation integrity and medical-legal aspects of preanesthetic evaluations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the design, development, and implementation of a computerized preanesthetic evaluation form.
• To assess user satisfaction with the newly developed computerized system.
• To enhance the efficiency and accuracy of preanesthetic assessments.

Main Methods:

• Development and implementation of a computerized preanesthetic evaluation form.
• Data collection on system usage, including procedure type and patient risk classification.
• User satisfaction surveys to gauge feedback on the new system.

Main Results:

• Over 15,000 closed forms were processed since September 2008.
• 60% of evaluations were for ambulatory procedures, 40% for inpatient procedures.
• 82% of procedures were classified with a low risk (1-2) by the American Society of Anesthesiologists.

Conclusions:

• The computerized preanesthetic evaluation system has been successfully implemented.
• The system demonstrates high user satisfaction, indicating its effectiveness.
• The system supports efficient risk assessment and documentation in preanesthetic care.