Help Manual for many PMR systems

[Derek_balon]

I have recently joined the ranks of 'locum pharmacist' and am dismayed by the plethora of PMR systems. It strikes me that we (all locum pharmacists) require a simple help sheet for each system we use.

I think that the selection of patient, drug, dose and frequency in all systems is not complex and easily mastered with little time required. The problems arise when 'things go wrong'. I have identified some problems which need addressing and list them below. I suggest that it would be helpful if those competent with any particular system could provide the information to solve these problems all locum pharmacists could benefit by having the key problems solved by reference to this list. I find the manuals take too long to examine when dispensing - this short list of key problems only requires a glance.
(Below was in table form but I cannot reproduce here.)
Computer system From which screen What to do

Change label after printing/closed patient
Balance (owing) - originate - before printing
Change quantity of drug dispensed after printing - eg due to lack of stock etc (raise owing/balance)
Balance (owing) - clear ( from where)
Balance (owing) - clear - number (balance or orig quantity)
Loan - originate
Loan - clear
Bag label
Reprint label
Delete item from record
Delete script
Re-endorse after completing script (endorser not working first time)
List patients today
List of drugs dispensed today
Type of script FP10, emergency, private etc
Go back one instruction

I am certain that this list is not all inclusive. The addition of other significant points is to be encouraged but the key to this project is to keep the list short and thus a rapid reference document. Perhaps we could develop a 'quick reference' and an 'in depth reference'.


Derek Balon