Improved computer-assisted reading of identification and shortened MIC data for reporting on urine specimens at a Berlin University Hospital

Abstract

Results of bacteriological analyses of urine specimens from patients of Steglitz University Hospital at Berlin Free University are transmitted directly from the laboratory reading station to a mini-computer by means of an input tablet and a menu-driven programme. First, an identification of each specimen is entered on reception and printed out to form a working list. After culturing, the microorganisms are inoculated into microdilution plates for susceptibility testing and differentiation of Enterobacteriaceae. At the reading station, the urine data acquisition programme stores the observed CFU/ml values as well as up to 6 pathogens for each specimen. For each pathogen susceptibilities to 30 antibiotics are tested and reported for up to 4 levels of sensitivity. Enterobacteriaceae are speciated largely according to the results of 17 biochemical tests. User-programme interaction can be monitored on an LCD. Two correction facilities are provided: (1) within the current specimen, or (2) by recalling earlier specimens. Antibiotic usage patterns and species coding may be modified without reprogramming by editing the configuration files for (1) usage of the menu, (2) species coding, and (3) substrate-species combinations. The results are printed on self-adhesive labels, which are returned to the senders of specimens on the conventional request forms.