This project involved
the evaluation of handheld computers in a spectrum of
Intensive Care Units in various parts of Canada. Ten ICU's in
7 provinces participated, with a total of 65
physician-users.
The objectives
of this project were:
1. Evaluate the
efficacy of handheld information access.
2. Compare PalmOS devices (Palm M130) with Windows PocketPC
devices (Toshiba e130) as an interface for medical information
access.
2. Evaluate a handheld application for identifying patients
with severe sepsis
3. Collect statistics on patient admissions with sepsis and
severe sepsis
Handheld devices,
linked via the internet to a central database, allows
two-way data transmission. Data transfer occurs using a
customized
infrared-linked telephone modem, avoiding concerns regarding
compatibility of cradles, operating systems and local
firewalls.
