Hand-held computers in clinical audit: a comparison with established paper and pencil methods.

The performance of hand-held computer terminals was compared with that of paper and pencil data collection methods. The study was carried out on two wards, with a comparative study in the medical audit unit at Rampton Hospital, one of three special hospitals managed by the Special Hospitals Service Authority. These were analysed, focusing on time factors, error rates, ease of use and financial implications. Findings showed that the electronic system saved time, reduced staffing costs and errors and had unit-wide potential. The electronic data collection contributed to a cost-effective and flexible data-processing system for use in auditing.