One year's evaluation of a system of on-line computerisation of anaesthetic records using a computer bureau

A system for the on-line computerisation of anaesthetic records using a computer bureau is described. The requirements of the system are a keyboard and video display unit appropriately linked to the bureau's computer. The system was cheap and easy to install. It required no programming expertise from department members. Disadvantages included the need to change between two screens for data entry, a delay of over 8 months before satisfactory reports materialised for individuals or the department, congestion at peak times for data entry, excessive time spent on data entry, reluctance of the bureau to alter the format of the screens once they had been generated. The cost of the system is felt to be justified by the information provided for both accreditation requirements and for department management.