Evaluation Of Intelligent Decision Aids For Application In Critical Care Medicine

Abstract

In a high dependency environment such as that exhibited by a critical care unit, there is a requirement for a high degree of data processing. Computer-based technology has provided a simple solution to some of the problems which ensue due to the complexity in the measurement process, for example, by formulating fluid-balance calculations in a spreadsheet format. To evaluate such a program is relatively straightforward: comparison of the results derived from the computer application to those obtained by the more laborious pencil and calculator method. However, if a degree of intelligence is added to the software, then evaluation of the resulting system is not so straightforward. This paper proposes an evaluation strategy for use with intelligent decision aids which is based on analogies taken from other domains: mathematical modelling; clinical trials; and the social sciences.