Data entry by light pen

Collection of data is often difficult in medical and nursing applications of computers. A system has been developed using an inexpensive light pen to enter most of the required information. This method of data entry has proved to be acceptable to medical and nursing staff in clinical situations. The software places light blocks adjacent to a list of items available for selection. When the pen is applied to a light block, the item is selected with visual and audible confirmation being given. Corrections may be made by re-applying the pen to the light block.