Graphical Display of Clinical and Laboratory Data Using a Desktop Computer Interfaced with a Hospital Information System

A desktop computer has been used successfully to provide high quality graphical display of clinical data (e.g. vital signs) and laboratory data in conjunction with a hospital information system (Technicon MIS). This approach offers several advantages: 1) ease and speed of operation for physician with a pushbutton, menu-driven program; 2) ease and speed of system development; 3) versatility and flexibility. This approach also encourages use of the computer by physicians for a wide range of other applications.