Rapid accurate entry of microbiology results
Aller, R.D.; Friedman, W.
Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine 120(1): 57-61
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0003-9985 PMID: 8554446 Document Number: 463964
Objective.-To develop techniques to improve efficiency and accuracy of data entry in microbiology, using a commercially available laboratory information system that is keystroke-intensive. Design.-A combination of technologies, including bar-coded phrase sheets, keyboard macros, and bar-coded specimen labels, are used to automate the entry of commonly used keystroke sequences and combinations of culture findings. Setting.-An acute care hospital laboratory. Participants.-Laboratory technologists. Outcome measures.-Feasibility, report error rates, and technologist time. Results.-Qualitative: implementation of all three technologies proved feasible and practical. Quantitative: a 25-fold decrease in misreported cultures, as well as a 50% savings in reading time for new urine cultures. Conclusions.-This set of technologies for keystroke reduction would be of general applicability to laboratories with a variety of different laboratory information systems.