The anesthesiologist's guide to Palm Computing.

Handheld personal computers (HPCs) are permeating the clinical and personal lives of anesthesia care providers. Common characteristics include low cost, portability, easy PC data sharing, and applications such as a calendar, phone directory, memo pad, and a task list. Additional software includes databases for case logs, medication lists, task organizers, and document readers. This article discusses the Palm brand HPC (Palm Computing, A 3Com Company, Santa Clara, CA) including purchasing tips, common uses, backing up information, security concerns, and information resources on the Internet including websites providing free trial software.