Computerized information system for ICU patient management.

To solve the problem of data management, a digital computer was introduced in this ICU in 1977. Data are manually entered at the bedside alpha-numeric keyboards; two beds are directly connected to the computer. The system was especially designed to work in the 11-bed ICU; its functions are: (1) admission, discharge, and transfer data of patients; (2) management of doctors' and nurses' notes in a free text form; (3) management of the problem-oriented record; (4) management of physical and bio chemical variables, medical disorders, and fluid balance; and (5) diagnostic and therapeutic decision-making. Since 1977, the authors have computerized over 2600 patients and now conclude: (1) data management and communication have improved, thus, allowing nurses more time for direct patient care; (2) teaching of the residents and nurses has been facilitated and minimizes disparities from their diverse experience; (3) it has contributed to the development of protocols for many of the procedures; and (4) it has led to a more systematic approach to patient care. The assistance of a professional computer programmer and continuous maintenance of the software are essential.