The dangers resulting from inaccurate computer-based operative records.
The accuracy of a computer-based recording system of operative procedures was audited at a major district general hospital. The system is supposed to provide accurate records of theatre activity, to allow for improved nursing resource allocation and provide surgeons with a basic record of their operations. Mistakes were present in the details of 27% of the cases entered. Such inaccuracies highlight a major danger to surgeons with regard to their accountability for operations attributed to them. Mistakes can only cause further problems with regard to audit and future resource allocation.
Knight
L
L
Department of Otolaryngology, Royal Gwent Hospital, Newport.
Yardley
M
M
Jones
A
A
D004282:Documentation / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D008485:Medical Audit; D016347:Medical Records Systems, Computerized / Q000592:standards*; D009870:Operating Room Information Systems / Q000592:standards*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013514:Surgical Procedures, Operative; D014852:Wales