A REFERENCE SYSTEM IN CLINICAL ANESTHESIA

We have developed, as a pilot project, a hypertext-based reference sys tem for anesthesia in a neurosurgical clinic. The intention is to give passive decision support prior to the operation. The information is p resented according to the different needs and knowledge levels of the anesthesiologists. Therefore, with the aid of a simple and universal u ser interface (mouse and screen keys, no keyboard) the information is structured from basic to more detailed information. To complete the op eration-related material the system also offers relevant data from the ''anesthesia-related background knowledge'' (pre-existing diseases, d rugs, and medication, etc.). As an example, a short path through the s ystem is shown to illustrate the presentation and linkage of informati on.