Microcomputer system in an accident unit.

A microcomputer-based records system has been developed for use in the accident unit of a district general hospital. Patient details are entered directly at the reception desk and the computer generates a casualty card that is updated after the patient has been seen by the doctor, who determines the diagnosis to be recorded and specifies the injury coding. Information is stored on floppy discs, each holding the details of 3400 patients. The computer is used to produce a daily log-book of attendances, including revisits. The stored data may be examined and analysed for both administrative and medical purposes. The work load can be rapidly analysed according to various options that include the nature, type, and site of injuries. The system was introduced in December 1980. Location within the unit allows control over its operation, and many of the limitations of a manual system have been overcome.