Resp Care
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A respiratory care computer-charting system was developed and implemented as an addition to our hospital's computerized information system. Medical personnel charted and reviewed respiratory care procedures at nursing station computer terminals instead of using the patient's traditional paper chart. The computer automatically performed billing and provided management as well as clinical information. ⋯ Computer charting was more complete and informative. Productivity increased 18%, although it remains unclear to what degree the computer was responsible. Computer charting streamlined the process of documentation and allowed more beneficial use of clinical information.