Portable checklist system

Abstract

A computerized checklist system for use in the medical field preferably comprises a checklist unit adapted to be held in an operator's hand and a cradle for supporting the checklist unit. Each of these components includes a microprocessor for controlling the operation thereof. An optical link is provided to transmit data between the devices. The checklist unit includes suitable memory for storing alphanumeric checklist data including a sequence of checklist items. A display and a voice synthesizer selectively output checklist items. The checklist unit includes a keypad having a plurality of control switches for enabling an operator of the checklist unit to enter one of a plurality of signals indicating that the operator has taken one of a plurality of predetermined actions in response to each checklist item outputted by on the display and/or spoken by the voice synthesizer. The handheld unit also includes a program, responsive to processing of the checklist items during a work session, for storing a session log, the session log including data identifying each checklist item outputted during the work session, the signal entered by the operator in response to each checklist item, and a time when such signal was entered by the operator. Following placement of the handheld unit in the cradle after the work session, the session log data is downloaded to the cradle and then printed in a predetermined format.