1. Pre-acquisition > 2. Acquisition > 3. Reporting > 4. Results distribution
In a trauma case, the results distribution phase occurs almost simultaneously with the interpretation of the image. Afterwards, the results are linked back to the correct patient, instead of to a John Doe.
10. Emergency room physician receives the report and images
The emergency room, or referring, physician receives the report and images. Often, the radiologist gives the report to the ER physician verbally. The ER physician can also view the images at the same time as the radiologist using a workstation in the emergency room. Why? Once images are in the PACS, they are available immediately to anyone in the hospital with access to a display station. The ER physician can then act on the diagnosis much more quickly.
11. John Does becomes a “real” patient
Once the patient is conscious, or family members are available, his demographic information is entered into the Hospital Information System. Then, the John Doe records for the trauma case are updated in the HIS, RIS, and PACS to match the John Doe of the trauma case to the actual patient. This way, the patient's electronic health record is complete.
1. Pre-acquisition > 2. Acquisition > 3. Reporting > 4. Results distribution