A microcomputer-assisted bacteriology reporting and information system.

A microcomputer system for recording and reporting all specimens processed by a routine laboratory of clinical bacteriology is described. The system is based upon two multi-user microcomputers and all functions are carried out within the laboratory by the medical, technical and clerical staff. Data are recorded using visual display units ( VDU *s) and the laboratory has issued about 2700 final reports per week since January 1981. Data on all specimens are kept for immediate recall on a VDU for a period of about 6 weeks and hereafter stored on floppy disks. The computer system also produces laboratory statistics for internal use, epidemiological information for the surveillance of nosocomial infections, and makes accounting information for the accountants office.