3-16. FINAL FORMS
a. Final Forms Preparation. After the patient is discharged, the computer does
a search of the patient's entire file and prepares a series of documents, including a test
results summary, insurance forms, the patient's bill, and a medical record abstract.
b. Permanent Storage of Documents. During the patient's hospital stay the
computer has printed a set of documents. Upon discharge, these same documents
become a part of the hard copy medical chart filed in medical records. The patient's
complete record is also kept on magnetic tape at the computer center as a backup. It is
usually retained as long as dictated by local policy, so that files can be available in the
event of readmission. Older records are generally purged out of the computer because
the amount of memory available is limited.
3-17. COMPUTER-ASSISTED INSTRUCTION
The computer can vividly simulate real-live emergencies in which a patient must
be treated quickly and efficiently. These simulations offer a valuable tool in the training
of doctors, interns, residents, and anyone working in a medical environment. After
setting the scene and outlining the symptoms, the computer challenges the student to
save the patient's life before a certain time runs out. The student must select a logical
progression of diagnostic tests and treatments. The computer interacts with the
students, providing immediate feedback on each decision made. It points out student
errors immediately, providing explanations and further opportunities to test areas of
weakness.
Section IV. RADIOGRAPHIC APPLICATIONS
3-18. GENERAL
Like other departments, radiology uses VMTs and printers to interact with the
management information system computer data network. The network gives the
department direct access to a wide range of information on radiology patients and
immediate contact with other hospital personnel.
3-19. ORDERS FOR X-RAY EXAMS AND ROUTING
X-ray requests are entered on the VMT display by the physician using standard
radiographic terminology. The display is formatted to encourage physicians to provide
"indications," reasons for ordering the examination, which can be helpful to the
radiologist in understanding why the patient has been designated to have an x-ray. The
history and symptoms provided in the indications, for example, may prompt the
radiologist to suggest alternate or additional x-ray series. As soon as the new x-rays
are ordered, the requisitions are printed, unless they have been scheduled for a future
date. High priority (STAT) orders, specially marked to activate a bell and light in the
radiology department, will prompt immediate action.
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