Computers in the ICU: Where we started and where we are now

The first use of computers in critical care units were described in the mid 1960s. They reported the use of very large mainframe computers that filled entire rooms yet had very limited memory and processing capacities by today's standards. These were limited to only a few institutions until microprocessors were developed increasing computation speed and expanding memory capacity by many magnitudes. This allowed smaller more affordable stand alone systems to be developed and the inclusion of microprocessors into bedside devices. As the capacity expanded uses broadened. Simple results review developed into a more complete electronic medical record. Databases were created allowing population analysis for research and systems quality improvement activities. Decision support started as simple alerting of potential errors and dangers and expanded into more sophisticated clinical decision-making support. With this came problems that needed solutions. As the amount of information became overwhelming to the bedside clinician, methods to filter and display data made it more useful. Security and confidentiality became major concerns. Data input solutions had to be found including interfaces between computers, bedside devices and instruments designed to automate data input like scanners, bar coders, and other devices. The biggest issue of all however, was developing acceptance among clinicians and creating the cultural change required for successful implementation of electronic medical records. This paper will explore these issues. (C) 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.