European journal of radiology
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The aim of the study was to assess the effect of the introduction of PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) upon image availability in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and the consequent impact upon the behaviour of the ICU physicians, in terms of the initiation of image-based clinical actions. ⋯ This study shows that PACS significantly improves the speed of delivery of routine images to the ICU, but it appears that the instigation of image-based clinical actions is determined by other organisational factors in ICU, such as ward rounds, rather than the availability of the image for viewing. Further work is required on non-routine X-rays to clarify the impact of PACS on physician behaviour in clinically urgent situations.