Document 0265
 DOCN  M9440265
 TI    Computer network for a diagnostic virology laboratory.
 DT    9404
 AU    Stokes KJ; Morris DJ; Klapper PE; Semple AD; Crosdale E; Corbitt G;
       North Manchester Virus Laboratory, Booth Hall Children's; Hospital,
       Manchester, UK.
 SO    J Virol Methods. 1993 Dec 31;45(3):277-89. Unique Identifier : AIDSLINE
       MED/94149109
 AB    A data base for a large diagnostic virology laboratory is described. The
       system uses a network of personal computers. It allows the entry,
       long-term storage, and subsequent retrieval of specimen and patient
       records (comprising personal identifiers and specimen and result
       information), and hard-copy results reporting. Sited entirely within the
       laboratory, the network is not connected to a modem. Within the
       laboratory there is restricted access to human immunodeficiency virus
       test results to guarantee patient confidentiality. Retention of a
       hard-copy of specimen request cards ensures the availability of the
       original clinical information. The data base is copied on a second file
       server to facilitate searches, and daily streaming onto magnetic tape
       provides system protection in the event of hard disc failure. Matching
       of old and new patient records is done by surname, date of birth, and
       sex, and therefore duplicate records accumulate when patient names are
       misspelt on specimen request forms. The system requires further
       development to speed searches of the data base and to achieve automatic
       generation of laboratory worksheets. Future goals are the replacement of
       hard-copy records of clinical information and hard-copy reporting with
       on-line access to hospital data bases and on-line requesting by and
       reporting to the clinician.
 DE    *Clinical Laboratory Information Systems/INSTRUMENTATION  *Computer
       Communication Networks  Human  *Laboratories  *Virology  JOURNAL ARTICLE

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