A Computerized Data Storage and Retrieval System for Clinical Microbiology

Abstract

A computerized clinical microbiology data storage and retrieval system which provides a high degree of flexibility, maintains a continually updated cumulative data base, and could be adapted to most hospital or commercially available computer hardware is described. The information is entered into the system by means of coded, fixed-format data records which are generated by computer simultaneously with printed reports. Error detection and data screening systems provide listings of records containing errors and unusual or noteworthy results for the microbiologist. All data are recorded in a cumulative microbiology data bank. Retrieval may be performed by multiple parameters, thereby providing a means of rapidly reviewing and summarizing large volumes of microbiology data for clinical, laboratory and research purposes. These data, which might otherwise be lost, could provide valuable information to enhance patient care.