The ability to interface patient monitors directly to a computer, and generate a clinical record has existed for over 20 years. However, the acceptance of comprehensive electronic medical records in anesthesia has been slow to develop. Experts anticipate this reluctance is changing because of enhanced patient care through the use of detailed health information record systems. Anesthesia Informatics provides the health informatician and administrator with a comprehensive overview of this blossoming technology. With contributions from leaders in the field, this user friendly guide addresses how this technology has enhanced both the need for and the ability to collect and apply data in an acute care setting. It also offers invaluable insight on the business implications and the rationales required to make a purchase decision. Each section outlines need to know information to help the reader with the implementation and utilization of an Anesthesia Electronic Medical Record System. First book dedicated to the topic Written by leading authorities in AERMs Sections contain case scenarios

INDICE: Case scenario 1.- The history of record keeping in anesthesia.- Electronic interfaces to patient monitors.- Architecture and interoperability.- Usability requirements.- Data interfaces.- Data standards.- User requirements.- Decision support.- Preoperative charting requirements.- Medication management.- Legal concerns with an AEMR.- Implementation of an AEMR.- AEMR for an academic institution.- AEMR for a community hospital.- Case scenario 2.- Creating a business case.- RFI/RFP for an AEMR.- Evaluating the return on investment of an AEMR.- Automated charge capture.- Use of an AEMR for process improvement.- Case scenario 3.- Enhancements to patient care through the use of the Internet.- Developing clinical applications for the Internet.- Handheld computers and wireless applications.- Security of health information.- Case scenario 4.- Components of an ORMS.- Integration of the AEMR and ORMS.- Management of OR efficiency.- Case scenario 5.- Computer simulation as a teaching tool.- Future implications.