In February 2008, we embarked on a journey to design a system to graph our haemodialysis patient’s pathology results. These graphs would be a visual tool, which would assist in demonstrating the correlation between changing medications and their subsequent impact on pathology results.

A group of key pathology results, both biochemical and haematological, were identified using the CARI guidelines, these target ranges would be built into the graphs as a visual reference point. Other crucial input from nephrologists and dieticians was obtained to ensure all aspects were encompassed.

The ICT (Information Communication Technology) department was approached to design a system on the brief we gave them. This design allowed for quick entry of the pathology results, logical graph sequences, and most importantly, ease of interpretation. The system could only be accessed by password, and track which staff entered the data.

During the design process it became evident that this system could be developed further to improve the communication between our visiting nephrologists and a rural/remote dialysis unit. As this system is web based, it is able to be accessed offsite by all multidisciplinary team members; with password access. Medications can be altered by the nephrologists’ accessing this system. An encrypted notification is sent back to the dialysis unit; ensures prompt implementation of treatment.

This system has been in operation in our unit and is contributing to improved patient outcomes, more effective time management for dialysis staff and nephrologists, quality use of medications, and essentially, best practice.