Using the departmental radiology information system to replace specialist registrars logbooks.

AIM

To produce and assess a robust and user friendly specialist registrar logbook using a Radiology departmental management system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Our Radiology management system was modified to include logbook specific data fields. This allowed up to three registrars to be directly involved in any procedure, and two more to be observers to the reporting with only one screen entry, made on the terminals available throughout the department. Logbooks were produced by a PC based analysis program which also compared registrars' experience with updated averages. A comparison of computer generated logbooks with paper logbooks and a user satisfaction survey was undertaken after 1 year of running the system.

RESULTS

Computer generated logbooks showed consistent numbers of complex procedures in comparison with other logbook types, with more comprehensive details of each procedure. A survey of the registrars showed an overwhelming preference for the computer generated logbook.

CONCLUSION

Modification of a Radiology management system is a robust method of logbook provision, preferred by the registrars over paper or other electronic logbooks and providing the RCR tutor with consistent data on registrar training experience.