GCSE ICT B063 Revision Notes
TechMed 2014
ICT systems
Expert Systems
TechMed2014 makes use of intelligent or expert systems for diagnosis and treatment in a variety of medical situations. It is used in the
following way:
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The patient information is entered in to the system by the consultant.
The expert system uses a series of questions and answers to determine a diagnosis for the patient.
The expert system recommends a treatment, such as a drug type and dosage.
Many consultants use an expert system to confirm their diagnosis and also to look at the various treatment options. The expert system will
advise the consultant of any possible drug interactions. This type of program is useful as it offers the non-specialist health worker help
with a patient.
Hardware
Advanced Imaging Technology
The main advances in the use of technology for the diagnosis of patients have been in the field of imaging technology. Hospital physicians
use the technology to diagnose patient conditions, technologies include:
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Radiography – a low cost approach to produce a 2D X-ray image.
CT and MRI scanner – these devices produce a group of 2D images output to form a 3D picture, sometimes in full colour.
Ultrasound – This uses sound waves to create images of soft tissue, such as muscles, tendons and blood vessels; it can be used
to create 3D images.
There are other specialised scanners that are used for mammography, or breast scanning, bone density scanning and
echocardiograms that are used to create detailed pictures of the heart.
All the technologies create digital outputs that can be stored on a patient’s electronic records and viewed on a range of computing
devices.
Cameras Used for Diagnosis
Camera technology is used to inspect other parts of the body to allow the physician to get a first-hand view of any symptoms. This can
also help with operations in hard to reach areas like Keyhole surgery.
Telepresence Technologies
Telepresence technology can be used to conduct a consultation between a doctor and a patient remotely. The use of a high-bandwidth
connection and high-definition video reduce the normal delays that can be associated with basic videoconferencing.
TechMed 2014 could use this technology to allow a consultant from one of their hospitals to examine a patient in another hospital.
Remote surgery is still an emerging science, but it is commonly used to allow expert surgeons in remote locations to observe and advise
more junior surgeons on procedures.
Sensors
Sensors are widely used in hospital medical equipment to convert various physical quantities and stimuli into electronic signals that can be
used to monitor and analyse patient conditions. The following types of sensor are commonly used in hospitals:
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Pressure sensors – Used for blood pressure monitoring. Pressure sensors can also be used to detect that a patient is
present in their hospital bed.
Biosensors – Used for testing blood sugar, cholesterol and pregnancy testing.
Temperature Sensors – Used in digital thermometers, patient temperature monitoring and the control of the
hospital heating system.
Accelerometers – used in heart pacemakers.
Flow sensors – Used as part of delivering Anaesthesia.
Implanted Sensors – Used to allow long term monitoring in cases such as Diabetes and Hearts (Pacemakers).
Wireless technology has been used to allow for the sensors to be read without having to remove the device.
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GCSE ICT B063 Revision Notes
TechMed 2014
The sensor data is processed using a technique known as data logging, where an electronic device records data from sensors at regular
time intervals.
The sensors can be connected directly to a computer for storage and display. Data loggers can also be stand-alone devices; normally small
and battery-powered.
All sensors can be monitored on a machine in a room with the patient or remotely somewhere else depending on how the information is
transmitted.
Wireless Technology
Wireless technology is widely used to make connections between electronic devices and the use of this technology has expanded in
hospitals in recent years as it can improve patient care and provide patient information to physicians throughout the hospital.
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Wi-Fi permits wireless connection between electronic devices to share data or to access the Internet.
Bluetooth permits wireless connection between electronic devices over short distances. Bluetooth enabled wireless monitors
are available for a whole range of applications, including heart rate monitors and blood glucose monitors. The data collected is
read by a handheld tablet computer that can interact with the hospital’s wireless LAN.
Infrared operates over a short range and cannot penetrate through walls or other obstructions. Infrared network adaptors are
installed in many laptops and mobile devices to support file transfer; they can be used in hospitals to control digital projectors
when displaying test results, and for the control of televisions and display screens.
There is a range of handheld and mobile devices used in the hospital setting all of which make use of wireless connectivity. The main
devices used are PDAs, tablet PCs, iPhones and other smartphones.
Below are a list of hospitals Wireless products:
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miTag Monitor – Is an iPod sized portable device that clips on to the finger to monitor the vital signs of the patient, such as
heart rate or oxygen level in the blood, and this data is transmitted wirelessly to the hospital network.
Blood Pressure Monitor Using a Smart phone, hospital staff will monitor a patient’s blood pressure on a regular basis.
TechMed 2014 make use of wireless technology and store medical records electronically, so it is possible for hospital staff to make use of
their handheld devices to read and update medical records automatically.
One of the advantages of using mobile device applications is that they make effective use of video, audio and visual communications links.
The use of this media can be an extremely useful feature when explaining to patients the nature of their condition and the possible
treatments that can be carried out. Many physicians use these applications to keep up to date with medical developments.
Software
Systems Software
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Network Software - Is used by TechMed 2014 to set up and to control the local area networks (LANs), to monitor network
usage and to manage communication between each of the LANs.
Operating Systems - Are an essential part of any computer system and perform functions such as: file management, input and
output of data, multitasking and providing a software platform for application software.
Backup Software - Is crucial for the hospital and a system is needed to create copies of each data entry (could use a mirrored
server) and to store full copies of all hospital data for use in the recovery of lost data.
Utility Programs - A series of utility programs are used on computer systems, such as: virus protection with automatic update of
virus definitions, and the implementation of firewalls to prevent unauthorised access to hospital data.
Application Software
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Web Browser – Internet research and general business-related searching.
Email - Communication software used for contacting staff, patients and suppliers.
Word Processing - Typical uses include: communication with patients by post, creation of financial reports and invoices, and
creation of medical research reports.
Spreadsheets - Financial calculations can be carried out using a spreadsheet and the data can easily be presented in graphical
form.
DTP - Desktop publishing software can be used to make flyers and health information leaflets.
Presentation Software - To create multimedia presentations for training staff as well for presenting reports to colleagues.
Relational Databases - Relational databases are used by the hospital to store data on patients. Other databases exist to store
human resource data.
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GCSE ICT B063 Revision Notes
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TechMed 2014
Patient Records Software - An electronic health record (HER) is a software package that contains data such as: medical history,
medication, test results, allergies, personal details and patient statistics. Since all the information is in one digitally formatted
file, the hospital staff find it easy to follow the patient’s information and treat them effectively. (EHR) is a network -based
software package that groups an entire patient history into one easy-to-access file.
The main advantage of using a relational database to store patient records is that a number of different devices can access this data.
Desktop PCs or workstations can access the database as they are wired to the network using cables; however, these devices lack flexibility.
TechMed2014 have also incorporated wireless technology onto the network so that a wide range of other devices can access patient
records, including, Laptop, ultra book computers, Smartphones, Tablet computers.
In all cases the database is only accessed from the network and so it is not downloaded to the device for security reasons.
Networks
A computer network is a set of electronically connected computers which can share information and resources among themselves. There
are communication protocols that define how this sharing should take place.
Network Hardware
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Network interface card (NIC) – the network interface card allows for a cable to connect a computer or workstation to the
network.
Hub – a hub is a device for connecting many cables to many devices.
Switches – these send network traffic to specific destination address on the network.
Wi-Fi router – this acts as a wireless access point and provides network access for a range of Wi-Fi devices.
Advantages of Networks
File Sharing - One workstation can easily see/move files on another workstation, provided he is authorized to do so. (Hospital staff on one
workstation can share a file that has been created or updated by someone else. This is essential in a hospital, as patients’ records need to
be viewed).
Resource Sharing – Numerous computers can use one device (peripheral), such as modem and printer. (Sharing printers can be extremely
useful in the hospital, as hospital staff that work in different departments, can update a patient’s record and print out a prescription to the
nearest local printer).
Inexpensive Set-Up - Shared resources mean reduction in hardware costs. A particular software can be installed only once on the server
and made available across the computers.
Increased Storage Capacity – All computers can use the storage capacity from the server.
Disadvantages of Networks
Security Concerns – Any computer connected to a network can be accessed through the cable, meaning hackers could illegally access the
information. Network security software need to be used to prevent theft of any confidential and classified data. (Hackers can use a range
of tools to access files; therefore, the hospital network makes use of virus protection and firewall set ups to ensure that the system is secure
by preventing unauthorised access).
Virus and Malware - If even one computer on a network gets affected by a virus, there is a possible threat for the other systems getting
affected too. Viruses can spread on a network easily, because of the inter-connectivity of workstations.
Lack of Robustness- If the server breaks the whole network breaks.
Needs An Efficient Handler – A network technician is needed to run the network.
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GCSE ICT B063 Revision Notes
TechMed 2014
Network topologies
The three main network topologies are: Ring, Bus and Star.
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The ring Network- The computers are arranged in a circle, Data passes around the ring until it reaches the correct computer.
They are simple to set up and It is easy to add extra computers. A break in a wire can cause the network to fail.
The bus Network – A backbone cable is usually used, a small amount of cable is needed to connect the computers to the
backbone. It is simple to install, easy to add extra devices. Slow for larger networks, Reliant on the backbone cable.
The star Network - Uses a central connection point, this is a server. They use a lot of wire to connect each separate computer.
They depend on the central server. Easy to add extra computers without disturbing the network and if one connection breaks
the other connections still work.
Networks for Tech Med
Each of the hospitals has its own local area network and they can be joined together to form a wide area network (WAN) using normal
telecommunication links. There are several benefits for the medical group in sharing information between the four hospitals using a wide
area network, including:
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Doctors and consultants that work in more than one location can access their files, documents and the patient records
database.
Patient records are available to all hospitals, which can be useful if patients require treatment in a different hospital.
Administration/human resources can be carried out centrally from one of the hospitals.
Legal, social, ethical and environmental issues when using ICT within context
Technology is helping TechMed 2014 in numerous ways described below:
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Paper free Hospitals that will help to save money, excessive paper wastage and the environment.
Bar Code Patient Identification, Modern hospitals use barcode technology to identify patients, who wear wristbands on at all
times.
Locations and Information Displayed on Electronic Signs and Large-Screen Displays, that could hold information such as
direction signs, Waiting room waiting times etc.
Website Accessibility
TechMed 2014 need to make sure their website is fit for everyone to use so they have to make use of website accessibility features below
is a list of the features they could use:
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Hearing Disability - The option to select subtitles or captions to replace any audio or video communication would assist this
user.
Visual Disability - Many users with visual impairment make use of a website reader. The website design should include tags to
describe images and other dynamic content so that if the user has a website reader they can have this description read out to
them. Another option is to allow users to customise their display, increasing font size and changing colour schemes to enable
them to read the website text themselves more easily.
Physical Disability – Users may have difficulty controlling a mouse, so keyboard navigation should be an option. Keyboard
shortcuts are useful for users that struggle to control a mouse. Physically disabled users may make use of assisted technology
devices (described below with video web links) or use a microphone for voice input; website navigation needs to be straight
forward to be easily used by assistive technology.
Cognitive Disability - A cognitive disability can have an impact on how well people understand information; it does not always
affect the intelligence of the user. The website navigation needs to be consistent, intuitive and straightforward to aid
understanding by the user
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GCSE ICT B063 Revision Notes
TechMed 2014
Entertainment Technology
Entertainment technologies are emerging technologies that are becoming available in some hospitals. It is believed that patients who are
happy and have good facilities recover faster, and if given the option many patients would choose to be treated in a hospital that has a
state-of-the-art bedside entertainment system.
The touch screen system is normally wall-mounted and makes use of a full-motion tilt-and-swivel articulating arm, so that it can be
positioned accurately. A typical bedside entertainment system is displayed on a 15-inch touch screen, and a range of features that are
included are shown below:
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TV can be watched (live or on demand).
Radio stations can be included.
Internet browsing can be provided for entertainment or online shopping.
Email can be provided for contact with friends and relatives.
Films can be played.
Audio books.
Gaming can be provided
Telephone receiving incoming calls and dialling outside calls
Security Methods
Biometrics
Biometrics is the recognition of an individual by a unique physiological or behavioural characteristic. The most commonly used biometric
devices are described below:
Palm Print Recognition, the user keys in their identity number using the palm reader keyboard. They then place their palm into the device
as shown in the image. The system checks that the palm print matches the user’s identity number and authorises entry by unlocking the
door. The door remains locked if the system does not detect a valid match between the user’s identity number and the palm print.
Finger print Recognition, the user simply puts their index finger on the reader sensor, and the computer system automatically permits
access where there is a match between the fingerprint and a fingerprint image on the system.
Iris Scanning, devices require the user to look at a camera that will input an image of their iris. The computer system will compare the
image of the iris with other images on a database and will authorise access when there is a match. Facial recognition system works in a
similar way.
Advantages of Biometrics
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It is unique to the individual and so is more reliable than traditional access methods.
It cannot be copied by anyone else.
The user does not need to remember a username or password.
Disadvantages of Biometrics
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People do not want to give out their own private biometric information.
Many devices are not very reliable.
Expensive to implement into a hospital.
Physical Security Methods
Security cameras can monitor an area and the video footage can also be viewed at a later time if there is any evidence of any wrongdoing.
Magnetic Key cards can prevent unauthorised access to areas. This can also be done by number locks; this is a simple but effective
method for denying access by a potential intruder. If number locks are used, the codes should be changed on a regular basis to ensure
they remain secure.
Security guards can be used to control access to the buildings and log visits of potential intruders; they can check the ID cards of those
hospital staff needing to work in a particular secure area.
Backup tapes and disks also need to be physically secured in a locked, fireproof safe to avoid damage from natural disasters as well as
theft.
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GCSE ICT B063 Revision Notes
TechMed 2014
Software Security Methods
User Access Permissions - The network administrator will give users access to the essential parts of the system that they need to do their
work; for example, doctors and nurses would need to see patient records, but administrative staff would not.
User Access Passwords - Each user account will be password protected. Passwords need to be created that are strong or are not easy to
guess and regularly changed.
Firewall and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) – Network firewalls protect computer hackers from illegal access to the system. Intrusion
detection systems (IDS) are designed to monitor the network or computer system for malicious activities. Once an incident is detected a
report is produced which is sent to the network administrator for further action to prevent any risk to the system.
Encryption is widely used to make sure that data transmitted on a network is protected from hackers. It is the process of coding files
before transmission
Virus Protection - The use of antivirus software or a virus scanner can help to minimise the risk from viruses; this software searches the
computer system for viruses and deletes them when detected.
Current and emerging technologies
Web 2.0 Technology Used by TechMed2014
The hospital group can make use of the more up-to-date Web 2.0 technology that supports participation by patients and members of the
public, meaning they can communicate with the hospital by reading from and writing to the website.
A wide range of information can be provided to the patient via online website services, such as:
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Treatment details.
Test results.
General and past medical history.
Forth coming outpatient appointments.
Benefits to the Hospital of Using Website
Online communication is more efficient for the hospital as less staff interaction is needed.
Communication using website or confirmation emails promotes a paper-free approach for the organisation.
Benefits to Patients/Public of Using Website
Patients can communicate with the hospital at a convenient time for them as the service is available 24/7.
Patient does not have to spend a long time in phone queues or using automated messaging services.
Social Media
Social media can be used to pass information out to the general public about health issues. It can be used to help people with an illness
speak to people who also suffer from the same illness. Patients can also keep up-to-date on possible new medicines for their illness.
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