U.S. patent application number 10/283480 was filed with the patent office on 2009-11-26 for algorithm and program for the handling and administration of radioactive pharmaceuticals.
Invention is credited to Troy Curnutt, Jared Johnson, Bretten H. Whittacre.
Application Number | 20090292156 10/283480 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26962069 |
Filed Date | 2009-11-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090292156 |
Kind Code |
A9 |
Whittacre; Bretten H. ; et
al. |
November 26, 2009 |
ALGORITHM AND PROGRAM FOR THE HANDLING AND ADMINISTRATION OF
RADIOACTIVE PHARMACEUTICALS
Abstract
An algorithm and associated program for performing method steps
in the maintaining of records and generating of reports used in the
processing of radioactive pharmaceuticals. The algorithm is used as
the basis of a program which can accomplish this method
automatically. The method involves the determination of dose, the
acquisition of the materials, scheduling for the issuance of doses
and for future doses, the actual monitoring and control of material
and equipment disposal. The algorithm and method are also adapted
for the generation of reports on a periodic basis. In short, the
method performed by the algorithm allows for an automation through
a computer system and this, in turn, allows for the automatic
processing of the steps performed and the controls involved in the
dispensing of radioactive pharmaceuticals and automatically allows
for the generation of governmental and other reports therefor.
Inventors: |
Whittacre; Bretten H.;
(Henderson, NV) ; Curnutt; Troy; (Pocatello,
ID) ; Johnson; Jared; (Henderson, NV) |
Correspondence
Address: |
VENABLE LLP
P.O. BOX 34385
WASHINGTON
DC
20043-9998
US
|
Prior
Publication: |
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Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20030139640 A1 |
July 24, 2003 |
|
|
Family ID: |
26962069 |
Appl. No.: |
10/283480 |
Filed: |
October 29, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60335088 |
Oct 30, 2001 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
600/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G16H 40/20 20180101;
G16H 10/60 20180101; G16H 15/00 20180101; G16H 20/10 20180101 |
Class at
Publication: |
600/001 |
International
Class: |
A61N 5/00 20060101
A61N005/00 |
Claims
1. An electronic data processing algorithm for electronically
performing a plurality of method activities associated with the
administration of radioactive pharmaceuticals, said method
comprising: a) scheduling the administration of a radioactive
pharmaceutical to a patient; b) electronically determining and
obtaining in advance but in reasonably close relation to the actual
administration the required radioactive pharmaceutical; c)
electronically correlating the patient to the required dose and
acquiring a dose of the radioactive pharmaceutical for use with a
selected patient; d) actually administrating the radioactive
pharmaceutical to the selected patient; and e) disposing of the
instrumentalities used in the administration of the radioactive
pharmaceutical to the patient and electronically tracking
information related thereto.
2. The electronic data processing algorithm for performing method
activities of claim 1 further characterized in that the method
comprises taking the steps set forth in claim 1 for a plurality of
patients who may receive different radioactive pharmaceuticals and
different amounts thereof.
3. The electronic data processing algorithm for performing method
activities of claim 1 further characterized in that said method
comprises the step of electronically organizing the data and
sorting the data used in the performance of the method in such
manner that the data can be organized and used for control of the
pharmaceutical by its user.
4. The electronic data processing algorithm for performing method
activities of claim 1 further characterized in that said method
comprises the step of electronically organizing the data and
sorting the data used in the performance of the method in such
manner that a governmental report can be generated
electronically.
5. The electronic data processing algorithm for performing method
activities of claim 1 further characterized in that the step of
disposing of certain of the instrumentalities comprises the steps
of: a) packaging of certain of the instrumentalities for delivery
to locations having the facilities to handle radioactive
contaminated instrumentalities; and b) measuring the amount of
radioactive contamination in instrumentalities and areas in which
the instrumentalities having the radioactivity have been used.
6. The electronic data processing algorithm for performing method
activities of claim 5 further characterized in that the method
comprises calibrating those instrumentalities which require
calibration.
7. The electronic data processing algorithm for performing method
activities of claim 1 further characterized in that the step of
preparing doses of the radioactive pharmaceuticals comprises: a)
ordering the dose of the required radioactive pharmaceutical; b)
calculating the amount of the dose; and c) preparing an
instrumentality of the proper amount of the dose for
administration.
8. The electronic data processing algorithm for performing method
activities of claim 1 further characterized in that the step of
acquiring the dose of the radioactive pharmaceutical comprises
physically preparing that dose.
9. The electronic data processing algorithm for performing method
activities of claim 1 further characterized in that said step of
obtaining the required radioactive pharmaceutical comprises
displaying on a monitor certain of the patients, and the date of
administration and the required doses in a selected order
therefor.
10. The electronic data processing algorithm for performing method
activities of claim 1 further characterized in that all of steps a,
b, c, and e are performed with electronic intervention such that
the algorithm allows the method to be performed with making
appointments for the patient electronically in step (a) the
pharmaceuticals in step (b) with electronic intervention so that
the ordering occurs in timed relation to the scheduling, the
appointment, and preparing a dose of the pharmaceutical for
administration, by display of information relating to a particular
patient and to information about the dose which may be available in
an inventory.
11. Electronic data processing program based algorithm for aiding
in the administration of radioactive pharmaceuticals to a plurality
of patients, said algorithm comprising: d) transaction generating
activities for generating instructions to a user about patients and
the dates certain of such patients are to receive radioactive
pharmaceuticals and information relating to such pharmaceuticals;
e) provisions for introducing into a first data bank data about
patients and introducing into a second bank information about the
radioactive pharmaceuticals and introducing into a third data bank
information about the doses of selected radioactive pharmaceuticals
to patients and introducing into a fourth data bank information
about the date of such administrations are to be performed; f)
Steps in said algorithm for automatically assigning to the
information introduced a separate one of first codes about each of
the patients who are to receive a radioactive pharmaceutical, a
separate one of second codes about each of the radioactive
pharmaceuticals, separate one of a third code about the doses of
radioactive pharmaceuticals which can be administrated and a
separate one of fourth codes about dates in which administration
may take place; g) Additional steps in said algorithm for
automatically locating information about patients, information
about the radioactive pharmaceuticals, information about the doses
and information about the dates of activities to determine the
radioactive pharmaceutical to be administrated to each patient and
the doses thereof and the dates of administration by locating the
first, second, third, and fourth codes, and generate a display
thereof.
12. The electronic date processing program based algorithm of claim
11 further characterized in that said algorithm comprises a routine
for automatically correlating the codes to the information sought
so that the patients and the pharmaceuticals and the doses and the
dates of activities are in individual data banks and can be
automatically retrieved from said data banks by codes assigned
thereto, thereby reducing the redundancy of information
recorded.
13. The electronic data processing program based algorithm of claim
11 further characterized in that each of the said codes are
automatically assigned information which is introduced into an
electronic data processing system by the electronic data processing
system such that the codes do not have be manually introduced by a
user thereof.
14. The electronic date processing program based algorithm of claim
12 further characterized in that the first codes assigned to a
patient will always remain the same for that patient, the second
code assigned to the radioactive pharmaceutical will always remain
the same for that radioactive pharmaceutical regardless of the
patient it is administered to and the third code assigned to the
dose will always remain the same regardless of the patient in
pharmaceutical and the fourth code will always remain the same for
such date or dates regardless of the patient, dose and radioactive
pharmaceuticals.
15. The electronic date processing program based algorithm of claim
14 further characterized in that the provisional for introducing
information provides for information into a fifth data bank about
tests to be performed on a patient and a separate one of
information fifth codes will be assigned to each of those tests and
will always remain the same for such tests regardless of the
patients on whom the tests are to be performed.
16. The electronic date processing program based algorithm of claim
15 further characterized in that the provision for introducing
information provides for information into a sixth data bank about
studies to be performed based on the tests conducted on a patient
and a separate one of sixth codes will be assigned to each of those
studies and will always remain the same for such studies regardless
of the patient on whom the studies are to be performed.
17. The electronic date processing program based algorithm of claim
16 further characterized in that the provision for introducing
information into a separate data bank about testing for
radioactivity levels and a separate one of seventh codes will be
assigned to each of the test for radioactivity levels and the same
code will be applied to such test regardless of the radioactivity
pharmaceuticals with respect to which the tests are to be
performed.
18. A method generating algorithm providing for introduction and
processing of data and thereafter determining and generating
presentations on a display screen an electronic data processing
system for controlling the administration of radioactive
pharmaceuticals to patients, said method generating algorithm
comprising: a) a routine for processing data introduced into said
electronic processing system relating to a patient to whom the
pharmaceutical is to be administrated and to the pharmaceutical
itself; b) presently, on the screen of the electronic data
processing system a complete diagram showing all of the essential
routines; and c) said algorithm causing each sequential routine
selected by an operator to appear on the screen and enabling the
operator to perform each step in that routine and allowing for
immediate return back to the main flow diagram for obtaining
details on each successive routine so that all routines can be
efficiently performed.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is based on and claims the benefit of
priority of our provisional U.S. Patent Application Serial No.
60/335,088, filed Oct. 30, 2001, for Method Enabling Algorithm And
Program For The Handling And Administration Of Radioactive
Pharmaceuticals.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention relates in general to certain new and useful
improvements in algorithm and methods for enabling the handling and
administration of radioactive pharmaceuticals, and more
particularly, to an algorithm, a program used therein, and an
associated method which allows for the control of radioactive
pharmaceuticals and the areas in which they are used and for a
system and method for maintaining records and generating reports,
and handling the dispensing of radioactive pharmaceuticals.
[0004] 2. Brief Description of Related Art
[0005] In recent years, the field of nuclear medicine has relied
more heavily upon the use of radioactive pharmaceuticals, primarily
for diagnostic purposes, but for other treatment purposes as well.
Generally, radioactive pharmaceuticals were introduced into a
patient's blood stream, and allowed to be carried to one or more
organs of the body which are to be investigated. In this way, it
was possible to specifically locate tumors or other dysfunction
causing conditions.
[0006] Also, in the recent past, it has been found that certain
tumors, and other dysfunction causing conditions, will not become
visually apparent from presently available diagnosing techniques,
such as magnetic resonance imaging and computer tomography.
However, it has been found that these conditions will become
visually apparent when radioactive dies are lodged or introduced
into the tumors and other tissue in which observation may be
necessary. Due to the greater widespread use of radioactive
pharmaceuticals, and the potential for radioactive hazard, both in
the handling and in the disposition of waste materials, there has
been a need for careful control over the use of such materials. In
fact, in the United States, both the federal government and the
various state governments have levied numerous regulations
controlling the use and disposition of these radioactive
materials.
[0007] The pharmaceutical houses which dispense these radioactive
materials, are required to account for complete use of the
radioactive material, including the handling of the waste resulting
therefrom, and generate reports to those government agencies which
are involved in the regulation thereof. The same holds true for the
end users of these radioactive pharmaceuticals, as for example, the
hospitals and the physicians and medical centers which are involved
in the administration of these radioactive pharmaceuticals. These
end users are typically involved in the business of providing
medical care and administering for radioactive pharmaceuticals, and
generating governmental reports becomes a very time consuming and,
indeed, an expensive task.
[0008] This increasing widespread use of radioactive pharmaceutical
materials has given rise to a number of radioactive pharmaceutical
supply facilities which supply the end users, e.g., medical
institutions, hospitals and physicians with these radioactive
materials. These supply houses are frequently referred to as
"pharmacies" and "radioactive drug pharmacies". Some of the end
users, such as hospitals, etc., were originally quite lax in
control of the radioactive materials, and in the maintenance of
data for generation of reports. Consequently, the U.S. federal
government and the various state governments, at least in the
United States, have enacted, and even tightened, regulations which
require very accurate reporting on a periodic basis.
[0009] The federal government as well as several state governments,
call for the reporting of the use of each aliquoted portion of
radioactive material, including the use of handling materials such
as gloves, storage tubes, scales, and the like. Thus, more
specifically, reports must be made on the type of material used for
each particular patient, the amounts used, the dates of use, and
even how any remnant portions of the material were discarded.
Moreover, reports must be made on the handling equipment which may
have come into contact with radioactive materials, such as test
tubes, beakers, and the like.
[0010] It may be appreciated that there are numerous details
involving the complete handling of all radioactive material, and
the equipment used in the handling of that material, and hence,
reporting requirements are extensive and render the preparation of
reports to be time consuming and hence, costly. In fact, depending
upon the amount of radioactive material dispensed, the number of
patients receiving these materials, and like factors, personnel are
frequently exclusively devoted to gathering of information and
preparation of such reports.
[0011] There have been attempts to use data processing techniques
for storage of information. However, and heretofore, these data
processing techniques generally rely upon the pure storage of
information, without much attention being given to segregation of
data for report preparation and auditing, and even for
informational purpose by the user thereof.
[0012] There has been, at least, one attempt to provide a software
program for gathering of data and generating reports for the
handling and dispensing of radioactive materials. However, this
attempt involves only the specific use of the materials offered by
a single pharmaceutical facility. It is not capable of universal
use with a variety of pharmaceutical materials and a variety of
conditions not otherwise existing with this particular source of
pharmaceutical materials. Moreover, the program is severely
lacking, and still requires a substantial amount of personnel time
in gathering of information and generating the necessary
governmental reports.
[0013] One of the primary problems with the prior art software
programs which have been generated for handling and dispensing of
radioactive materials, is the fact that they were not particularly
user-friendly. The operator of the system had to be fairly well
experienced in dealing with computers in general, and in switching
back and forth between subroutines in complex algorithms. As a
simple example, if there were a menu page presented on the screen
of a monitor, the operator would have to track the particular page
involved, in order to examine details of a routine on that menu
page. In many cases, the operator even had to go to additional menu
screens in order to find the routine which was needed. Moreover,
when the operator finished with one routine, the algorithm did not
allow the operator to immediately return to the main screen, with a
mere click of a pushbutton switch.
[0014] Another one of the problems inherent in the prior art system
is that they were not readily adaptable to changing requirements.
Thus, if a governmental agency required a new type of report or an
altered report to be generated, this almost necessitated the need
for a skilled programmer to input that instruction base necessary
for an operator to use. Consequently, the prior art programs were
severely lacking in many respects.
[0015] It can also be recognized that each medical institution has
different operating procedures than others. Moreover, certain of
the medical facilities have larger staffs than others, and hence, a
greater capability of record keeping. Consequently, and inasmuch as
the medical facilities would prefer to avoid substantial record
keeping and the details associated with administering of these
radioactive pharmaceuticals, each facility may prefer a somewhat
different algorithm to track the use of radioactive
pharmaceuticals. Therefore, there is a clear need for an algorithm
and a program which operates a method for administering the
radioactive pharmaceuticals, and for also generating the required
governmental reports therefor.
[0016] There has therefore been a need for a system which will
allow for the automatic retention of data, segregation of data
according to specific functions and materials, and which will also
generate reports based on the collected data, all on an automated
basis. There has also been a need for a system of this type which
could be universally applicable to the collection and segregation
of data and generation of reports, based on the particular
materials used and the functions which are necessary by a user of
such system.
[0017] In addition to the foregoing, there has been a need for
these end users, as well as the radioactive pharmaceutical
companies, to maintain internal controls over the use and
dispensing of radioactive pharmaceuticals, in order to insure for
the health and the safety of those parties dealing directly with
these pharmaceuticals. This need for control over the radioactive
pharmaceuticals also involves an intended need for careful control
and monitoring of the areas in which the pharmaceuticals are used,
inasmuch as the latter can also become contaminated from the
radioactive pharmaceuticals.
[0018] Furthermore, there has also been a need for an orderly and
regulated manner in which an end users and a radioactive
pharmaceutical company could maintain appropriate record keeping in
order to insure the ordering of radioactive pharmaceuticals on a
needed basis. It may be appreciated that in many cases, the
pharmaceutical activity of a radioactive pharmaceutical can
decrease rapidly, depending upon the half life of the radioactive
material. Consequently, careful control over the ordering of the
radioactive materials and dispensing must also be maintained.
[0019] There has been a further need for some method to allow for
internal control over the use of radioactive pharmaceuticals, and
also some method which allows for the control and ordering of
radioactive pharmaceuticals and related materials timely in
response to demand therefor.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0020] It is, therefore, one of the primary objects of the present
invention to provide an algorithm and a program capable of
performing method steps used in a process for gathering data on
radioactive materials, and generating reports therefrom.
[0021] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
algorithm and program of the type stated, which can be universally
adapted to a variety of situations and a variety of radioactive
materials which may be used.
[0022] It is a further object of the present invention to provide
an algorithm and a program which will automatically gather data,
segregate the data according to specific materials and equipments
used and the parties receiving such materials, as well as disposal
thereof.
[0023] It is an additional object of the present invention to
provide an algorithm and a program of the type stated, which can be
fully automated and where reports can be generated with very little
manual attention on a periodic basis, and containing that
information precisely categorized and specified as required by
various governmental agencies.
[0024] It is another salient object of the present invention to
provide a method for gathering data regarding the use of
radioactive materials, and segregating that data according to
report categories and allowing for generation of reports on a fully
automated basis.
[0025] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide a method of using an algorithm and a program to
efficiently, and with a minimal amount of manual intervention,
permit the gathering of data arising from the use of pharmaceutical
materials.
[0026] It is also an object of the present invention to provide a
method and algorithm which will use data generated regarding the
use and disposal of radioactive materials, and which will allow for
generation of reports specific to the needs of various governmental
agencies, and which reporting requirements can be altered in
response to changing regulations of the various governmental
agencies therefor.
[0027] With the above and other objects in view, our invention
resides in the novel features of form, construction, arrangement
and combination of steps involved in the algorithm and program as
well as the method accomplished thereby in accordance with the
present invention.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0028] The present invention primarily relates to an algorithm and
a method which provides for the administration of radioactive
pharmaceuticals. The algorithm and method of the invention
primarily is used by the so-called "pharmacy", as opposed to the
physician or hospital. The pharmacy typically deals exclusively
with radioactive materials, and primarily the radioactive
pharmaceuticals.
[0029] The present invention also relies upon the algorithm and a
software program based thereon, for operating a method used in the
handling of and administration of, as well as maintenance of
records and generating reports for processing and using of the
radioactive pharmaceuticals. More specifically, a wide variety of
steps are required, usually by governmental control, in the
handling and distribution of radioactive pharmaceuticals. The
algorithm of the present invention is used as a basis for a program
which automates the handling and distribution of these
pharmaceuticals. Specifically, the algorithm allows for quality
control of the various pharmaceutical products which are to be
distributed.
[0030] Thereafter, the algorithm includes inputs for the actual
dosing of each individual patient, who has been entered into the
program. These patients will change on a periodic basis. After a
patient has been dosed, that is, administered with the radioactive
pharmaceutical, a schedule for the next visit is maintained. In
this way, the hospital or medical facility is able to order and
have available on time the next dosage to be administered to each
particular patient. Moreover, the timing must be fairly well
controlled inasmuch as these radioactive pharmaceuticals have a
relatively short half-life and the individual dosages could rapidly
degrade or deteriorate if not used promptly and on the appropriate
time.
[0031] In many cases, kits of the dosages of a particular
radioactive pharmaceutical product may be required in larger
amounts which are then broken into individual doses. These doses
are introduced into syringes in certain cases. Thus, the
pharmaceutical laboratory involved will take the larger quantity of
the radioactive pharmaceutical and divide that large quantity into
the individual doses which are introduced into syringes.
[0032] After all handling of the radioactive pharmaceutical
product, the area in which doses were handled must be monitored. In
effect, a determination is made as to whether or not there is any
remnant radioactive material on counters or the like. All such
radioactive material must be accounted for and reported, typically
to governmental institutions involved in use of same.
[0033] After the monitoring, the various syringes and other
components and items used in handling the dosages must be
collected. These syringes and other items will still contain
remnant amounts of the radioactive material and are themselves
radioactive. Consequently, they must be disposed of appropriately.
The term "disposal" does not mean that these instrumentalities,
that is, the various syringes and items used in the handling of the
dosages or other items which come into contact with the dosages,
are being discarded in the waste. Rather, the radioactive
pharmaceutical laboratory or pharmacy typically does not have
facilities for such waste. Consequently, they are taken to a
location where radioactive waste can be disposed.
[0034] In connection with the delivery of the various
instrumentalities which were used in handling of the radioactive
pharmaceuticals, it is, of course, necessary to keep careful track
and monitoring of these instrumentalities, such as the syringes and
the like. This is to insure that these radioactive materials do not
become available to parties who might use the radioactivity for
illegal or undesirable purposes. Moreover, governmental agencies
typically require complete reporting on the disposal of all such
instrumentalities.
[0035] Finally, periodic reports are generated. In particular,
these reports are usually made on a daily basis in order to conform
to governmental requirements. In this way, all reports are
automatically prepared in accordance with the algorithm and the
method steps performed thereby.
[0036] One of the important aspects of the present invention is
that the algorithm causes the operation of a method for performing
all of the foregoing activities, as well as other types of
activities, including monitoring activities. Moreover, all of the
information can be introduced and used on an automated basis. Thus,
with a large number of patients, for example, and each receiving
different doses of different radioactive pharmaceuticals, the
medical facility is, required to maintain a large amount of data.
The algorithm of the invention will allow for the organization of
this data, so as to advise the pharmacy of those patients which are
next due for radioactive pharmaceutical administration. The
algorithm will also allow for automatic advisement to a party at
the medical facility monitoring this information, such that the
party knows when to order the various radioactive materials.
[0037] The algorithm is designed to receive input data about each
of the particular patients, and organize that data. In this way,
the electronic data processing system which uses the algorithm not
only advises of the doses which must be administered, but also
advises of sources for those particular radioactive
pharmaceuticals, and the like. In this way, the medical facility
can then prepare, on a timely basis, the necessary doses.
[0038] As indicated previously, many of these pharmaceuticals have
a relatively short half life. Consequently, it is of some
importance to insure that the doses are ordered from a source of
the radioactive pharmaceutical, or otherwise, that the doses are
prepared directly, either at the radioactive pharmacy or at the
medical facility, with the proper amount of radiation.
[0039] In addition to the foregoing, the algorithm allows for
setting the dates and times, and continuously updates the date and
time, relative to the information which has been stored.
[0040] The algorithm of the invention also allows for necessary
attendant operations, such as billing for preparation and providing
of the radioactive pharmaceutical, the maintaining of insurance
information, and the like. The input data will include input data
regarding the physician, the type of pharmaceutical which has been
prescribed, and like information.
[0041] One of the important aspects of the present invention is
that personnel are not required to operate calculators in order to
make determinations. In effect, all computations which are
necessary in connection with the administration and the record
keeping, are performed internally with the algorithm and programs.
As a simple example, by introducing the weight of a patient, the
amount of the radioactive pharmaceutical to be administered to that
patient can be determined.
[0042] In substance, it is not necessary for the user to engage in
the need for locating a calculator, looking up a formula to enable
calculation, and thereafter, performing the necessary calculation.
This alone not only functions as a time conservation, but it also
eliminates the possibility of error in performing the calculation
function. In addition, the algorithm of the present invention will
also provide for ranges to inform the user as to whether or not a
particular calculation was high or low. As a simple example, if a
user is performing a daily constancy determination, that is, e.g.,
meters operating in accordance with the recommended ranges, the
algorithm will give the previous ranges, both high and low, so that
the user can automatically determine right at that point in time if
the meters are within the corrected range or not within the
corrected range.
[0043] Heretofore, any prior art system required a determination,
typically at the end of the month, and at which point, if a meter
was not within the required range, tests may have to be
reconducted. Moreover, tests may have previously been made with a
faulty meter which requires re-calibration. The prior art systems
were simply not effective to provide that information
immediately.
[0044] The algorithm and the program derived therefrom can also be
customized to the needs of a particular user. This is due to the
fact that the algorithm is arranged to maintain data in various
data groups, and combine that data to produce information which
must be presented to a user of the system. Moreover, by virtue of
the fact that the computer itself can be connected to the World
Wide Web, or other Global Communication Network, it is possible to
update and download and upload information on an on-line basis.
[0045] One of the important aspects of the present invention is the
fact that the algorithm and the method allow for the automatic
assignment of internal numbers to various segments of data. As a
simple example, if the radioactivity pharmaceutical Myoview is to
be administered to a patient by the name of Smith, and in an amount
of 50 ml., each of those pieces of information are assigned an
internal computer number. Thereafter, each of the pieces of
information are stored in a separate file. In this way, it is not
necessary to introduce redundant data for another patient who is to
receive Myoview, in the same or different amounts. The algorithm
thereupon allows for the assumption of data through the internal
computer numbers, as requested by the operator. Indeed, it is not
even necessary for the operator to know of these internal numbers.
Rather, the internal numbers represent an internal file accessing
scheme for the gathering of data and associating the data.
[0046] Another one of the important aspects of the present
invention relies in the fact that the algorithm has been designed
so that it is essentially "fool proof", in that an operator who may
be relatively unskilled in computer operations can, nevertheless,
perform all of the necessary method steps with the method
generating algorithm of the present invention. The algorithm is
designed to generate one or more main displays in the form of flow
diagrams on the screen of a computer monitor. Each of the routines
forming part of that algorithm are laid out in a manner in which
they must be sequentially performed.
[0047] In view of the fact that there is a complex amount of
information and a complex number of tasks to address, the menus are
designed so that each of the routines are not only in their proper
sequential location on the screen in which they are to be
performed, but the operator can immediately address any particular
routine merely by the click of a return pushbutton switch on the
keyboard pad of the computer. Moreover, after the operator has
performed all of the tasks necessary in a particular routine,
another mere actuation of the return switch, or other selected
switch, will cause the program to return to the main screen so that
the operator immediately knows the next routine which is to be
performed.
[0048] Even when a routine is performed, the operator can
automatically and easily address subroutines by simple actuation of
another keyboard switch. In this way, the algorithm effectively
carries the operator through all of the routines which must be
performed, thereby avoiding problems of faulty memory or problems
which involve a lack of computer skills on the part of the user.
When the operator has finished with a subroutine, the click of the
same switch will automatically bring the operator back to the
routine, and another click of the return switch will automatically
bring the operator to the main menu. In this way, the algorithm is
so designed so that there is little chance for error.
[0049] The various routines are also organized so that the
operation is relatively simplified. As a simple example, the
scheduling of a patient is contained in one routine, the review of
a drug for a patient in another routine, selection of a drug for a
patient in a third routine, selection of the particular patient to
receive that drug in a fourth routine, etc. The routine even
provides for introduction of the initials of the operator so that
one can track the efficiency of use of the operator.
[0050] The algorithm and the method accomplished thereby, is
hereinafter described in more detail in the following detailed
description. However, certain individual activities are not
necessarily included therein. For example, a selection of a desired
word processor which may be incorporated in the program is not
necessarily described, and the type of forms which may be stored
and selected are not necessarily described. In addition, activities
such as backup recording, help files, and the like, may be included
with the algorithm, but since these activities are not critical to
the operation of the method, they are neither illustrated nor
described herein.
[0051] This present invention thereby provides a unique and novel
algorithm and associated program and the method steps taken through
the use of the algorithm and program for fulfilling steps in the
handling and administration of radioactive pharmaceuticals, which
thereby fulfills all of the above-identified objects and other
objects which will become more fully apparent from the
consideration of the forms in which it may be embodied. One of
these forms is more fully illustrated in the accompanying drawings
and described in the following detailed description of the
invention. However, it should be understood that the accompanying
drawings and this detailed description are set forth only for
purposes of illustrating the general principles of the
invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0052] Having thus described the invention in general terms,
reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings in
which:
[0053] FIG. 1 is a symbol identification of the various symbols
used in the following schematic block diagram flow sheets, forming
part of the algorithm and method of the present invention;
[0054] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
main steps forming part of the main loop in the algorithm and
method of the present invention;
[0055] FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the scheduling of patients;
[0056] FIGS. 4A and 4B are schematic block diagram flow sheets,
showing the steps involved in the programming for the receipt of
doses to be administered to patients;
[0057] FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet of a chart
showing those steps involved in viewing available doses for the
various patients, in accordance with the present invention;
[0058] FIGS. 6A and 6B are schematic block diagram flow sheets,
showing the selection of dosage per patient, in accordance with the
algorithm and method of the present invention;
[0059] FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the ordering of doses, in accordance with the
algorithm and method of the present invention;
[0060] FIGS. 8A and 8B are schematic block diagram flow sheets,
showing the steps involved in the selection of a software
administrator, that is, administration of the software allowing for
the algorithm and the method of the present invention;
[0061] FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the selection of hot labs, that is, analyzing the
conditions of radioactive laboratory operations;
[0062] FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
selection of reports for various activities which are performed
initially in the algorithm and method of the present invention;
[0063] FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
disposal operations for disposing of radioactive pharmaceutical
material and material contaminated thereby;
[0064] FIG. 12 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
select dose calculations formed by the algorithm and the method of
the present invention;
[0065] FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the selection of dates and times for performing
various activities and for setting those dates and times in the
program of the invention;
[0066] FIG. 14 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
printing of a schedule in accordance with the invention;
[0067] FIG. 15A is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing
the steps involved in a survey meter validation, in accordance with
the present invention;
[0068] FIG. 15B is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing
the steps involved in a wipe meter validation, in accordance with
the present invention;
[0069] FIG. 16 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in a daily constancy, that is, calibrating
measurements involved in the use of radioactive materials in the
hot labs of the present invention;
[0070] FIG. 17 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing
determination of dose accuracy in accordance with the present
invention;
[0071] FIG. 18 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing
linearity sleeve steps used for performing the determination of
fill calibration factors, input assayed amounts and calculated
calibration factors;
[0072] FIG. 19 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing a
linearity manual method for calibration information, assayed
activity and the retention thereof;
[0073] FIG. 20 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing
those steps involved in the geometry for calibration information
and assayed activity, as well as calculations therefor;
[0074] FIG. 21 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
incorporation of physician information, that is, information
relating to the physician prescribing such radioactive
pharmaceuticals;
[0075] FIG. 22 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
insurance information involved with the dispensing of the
radioactive pharmaceuticals, for purposes of billing and like
activities;
[0076] FIG. 23 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing
those steps involved in information about scheduling
activities;
[0077] FIG. 24 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing
steps involved in setting forth information regarding the room of a
particular patient, to thereby ascertain the location of that
patient;
[0078] FIG. 25 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in determining dose information for a particular
patient, in accordance with the present invention;
[0079] FIG. 26 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing
source information in accordance with the present invention;
[0080] FIG. 27 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in source disposal, that is, disposal of sourced
radioactive material, in accordance with the invention;
[0081] FIG. 28 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in maintaining an inventory of radioactive material
in accordance with the present invention;
[0082] FIG. 29 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in patient dose information, that is, the dosages of
radioactive material already administered to patients;
[0083] FIG. 30 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in task information, that is, those tasks necessary
and the days, months and weeks for administration of the algorithm
and method of the present invention;
[0084] FIG. 31 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, similar to
FIG. 30, and shows additional test information generated and stored
in accordance with the algorithm and method of the present
invention;
[0085] FIG. 32 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing
steps involved in the recording of schedule information, in
accordance with the present invention;
[0086] FIG. 33 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in recording all information regarding meter probes
used in the process and algorithm of the present invention;
[0087] FIG. 34 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing
steps involved in the meter analysis for the meters used, in
accordance with the algorithm and process of the present
invention;
[0088] FIG. 35 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing
those steps involved in the monitoring of various items used in the
dispensing and recording of information regarding radioactive
pharmaceuticals;
[0089] FIGS. 36A and 36B are schematic block diagram flow sheets,
showing the steps involved in monitoring groups of individuals
treated with the radioactive pharmaceuticals of the invention;
[0090] FIG. 37 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in a dose calibration in accordance with the present
invention;
[0091] FIG. 38 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
measurements set forth in a dose calibrator constancy method, in
accordance with the present invention;
[0092] FIG. 39 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the method of editing the dose calibrator
constancy, and is similar in that respect to FIG. 38;
[0093] FIG. 40 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in editing of dose accuracy in accordance with the
algorithm and method of the present invention;
[0094] FIG. 41 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing
those steps involved in the editing of sleeves used in the
production of the radioactive pharmaceuticals;
[0095] FIG. 42 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the calibration of linear sleeves used in the
preparation of the radioactive pharmaceuticals;
[0096] FIG. 43 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the editing of the linear sleeves dealing with
decay of the radioactive material;
[0097] FIG. 44 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
geometry of preparing and using the dose calibrator to determine
doses of the radioactive pharmaceuticals to be administered;
[0098] FIG. 45 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the manual decay of the radioactive
pharmaceuticals, and typically referred to as the editing of the
linear calibration;
[0099] FIG. 46 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, and
illustrates the decay of the radioactive material in storage and
the determination thereof;
[0100] FIG. 47 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing a
chart setting forth the various options for dosing a patient;
[0101] FIG. 48 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the scheduling of various patient options;
[0102] FIG. 49 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the recording of dates for filtering of the doses
to be administered;
[0103] FIG. 50 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in preparation of a dosage shipment report;
[0104] FIG. 51 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in preparation of a tests performed report;
[0105] FIG. 52 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in preparation of a disposal report;
[0106] FIG. 53 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in preparation of a container return report;
[0107] FIG. 54 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the preparation of a residual inventory
report;
[0108] FIG. 55 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the preparation of a patient status report;
[0109] FIG. 56 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the preparation of a patient information
report;
[0110] FIG. 57 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the preparation of a patient look up report, that
is, a report with information about a particular patient;
[0111] FIG. 58 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the preparation of a dose calibrator accuracy
report;
[0112] FIG. 59 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the preparation of a sealed source inventory
report;
[0113] FIG. 60 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the preparation of an area report;
[0114] FIG. 61 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the preparation of a dose calibrator constancy
report;
[0115] FIG. 62 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the preparation of a meter information
report;
[0116] FIG. 63 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the preparation of a wipe monitor report;
[0117] FIG. 64 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing,
the steps involved in the preparation of a linearity sleeve method
report;
[0118] FIG. 65 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the preparation of a linearity manual method
report;
[0119] FIG. 66 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the preparation of a geometry report;
[0120] FIG. 67 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the preparation of a cost report;
[0121] FIG. 68 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the preparation of a referral source report;
[0122] FIG. 69 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the preparation of a formula report;
[0123] FIG. 70 is a schematic block diagram flow sheet, showing the
steps involved in the preparation of a daily report; and
[0124] FIG. 71 is a schematic block diagram showing the fields in
which data is introduced, and the accumulation of data for
injection of a particular patient.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0125] The algorithm of the present invention is more fully
described by reference to the following FIGS. 2-71. It should be
recognized that this particular algorithm and method are primarily
adapted for use with the medical facility, including individual
physicians, although it could be adapted for use with a pharmacy or
other facility authorized to dispense radioactive
pharmaceuticals.
[0126] FIG. 1 illustrates the symbology which is used, and to that
extent, is self explanatory with regard to data entry and
processing of data, as well as a decision point. The decision point
typically has more than one output, such that if a decision is
"yes", for example, then one output occurs, and if a decision is
"no", then another output occurs. The term "link to slide"
identifies shifting to a particular flow chart. Thus, in the actual
algorithm one can automatically move to a selected sub-routine,
illustrated on these various figures.
[0127] Each of the following routines are identified with a
description of each routine. To a large extent, many of the steps
are self explanatory, and do not require further explanation.
[0128] The main loop represents the start of the program and the
various activities which take place. Some of the routines defined
by these activities are hereinafter set forth in more detail. It
can be observed that the algorithm generally loads any default
information at Step 100, as for example, the default would include
names and information. Next, the program will then show on a
monitor the day's appointments at Step 102, and to also identify
the tasks at Step 104.
[0129] At this point, the main program provides for a decision of
the operator at Step 106, to either quit the program or to proceed
with the program. If the decision is to quit the program, then the
algorithm will cause the return to the showing of appointments. If
the operator elects to continue with the program, the algorithm
will then display a schedule patient routine 108, where the
operator will schedule a particular patient. All of the information
concerning that patient is introduced. In addition, the operator
can either introduce, or can have previously introduced information
displayed, about receipt of doses of pharmaceutical material at
Step 110. The viewing of these doses are available at Step 112.
[0130] After the determination of the dose is made, the patient is
actually dosed at Step 114, that is, the radioactive pharmaceutical
is administered to the patient. That administration may occur at a
hospital or a physician's office. However, that information must be
sent back to the scheduler or individual who maintains the record
keeping information for introduction into the data processing
program. In this way, it is possible to keep track of the doses
which were administered to a particular patient, and to also
control inventory and the like.
[0131] Doses are ordered at Step 116. In this case, the algorithm
is arranged so as to advise the operator of doses which must be
ordered, as for example, from a radioactive pharmacy, and the next
time period in which they must be ordered. As a simple example, if
a particular patient requires a radioactive pharmaceutical on a
periodic basis, that information is introduced into the electronic
data processing system, and the information necessary will be
displayed on a timely basis. As an example, for each patient
requiring a particular pharmaceutical that day, the information
will be displayed, thereby enabling the operator to advise the
necessary personnel to otherwise order the doses, or to prepare the
doses on an in-house basis.
[0132] The algorithm is provided with a routine identified as
selection of a software administrator Step 118, or otherwise,
software administrator tasks. In this case, a display screen may
generate information about each of the tasks which the
administrator is to perform. Moreover, the term "administrator" is
typically referred to as that party who is monitoring the
information on a display and introducing information. Details of
the software administrator task is more fully set forth in
connection with the description of FIGS. 8A and 8B. In essence, a
single display can generate all of the routines to be required and
the order in which they take place, so that the administrator or
the scheduler can keep track of and insure that all activities are
correctly performed.
[0133] The algorithm next presents a routine identified as "hot
labs". In this case, the term "hot labs" refers to those
activities, such as monitoring, cleaning and the like, which take
place in those areas and with those instrumentalities involved in
the actual contact with radioactive pharmaceuticals. Thus, and for
example, this term encompasses those activities for measurement of
radioactivity levels on counters, and other fixtures in a facility.
It also provides for various subroutines dealing with disposal of
radioactive instrumentalities, such as syringes, vials and the
like. Indeed, the latter is an integral part of the administration
of radioactive pharmaceuticals and subroutines are also provided in
connection with the description of FIG. 9 of the drawings, each
subroutine is presented on a different screen in the order to be
performed and the necessary steps for each subroutine are set forth
therein.
[0134] As indicated previously, reports are a critical part of
dealing with any radioactive material, and in this case,
radioactive pharmaceuticals. Consequently, a separate routine is
provided for preparing reports at 122. In addition, disposal of the
instrumentalities used in administration of the radioactive
pharmaceutical are also important at Step 124.
[0135] The algorithm also provides other routines, such as
selection of a particular word processor at Step 126, but which is
not necessarily described in any further detail herein. However,
that operation is fairly simple and standard in that the operator
can select a particular desired word processing program. A dose
calculation is performed at 128. Form information is introduced at
Routine 130, backup information at Step 132, and help information
at Routine 134. These various routines, such as the forms Routine
130, the backup Routine 132, and the help Routine 134, are only
aids to the operator, but are not critical to the algorithm, and
therefore, have neither been illustrated nor described in any
further detail herein. However, the date and time setting at
Routine 136 is important, in that all of the activities which take
place are controlled by the date and time. Again, since the
algorithm deals with administration of radioactive pharmaceutical
materials, it is necessary to maintain accurate timing for delivery
to each of the patients at a prescribed time, and to order the
materials at a prescribed time. For this purpose, there is an
update time Routine 138. The operator can also terminate the
algorithm at Routine 140.
[0136] FIG. 3 illustrates the routine for scheduling of patients,
namely, that Routine 108. In this case, the routine includes an
initialization 142, which displays current appointments. The
operator then can decide whether to schedule or not schedule at
Step 144. If scheduling is to be stopped, the algorithm will return
to the main loop at Step 146, and if scheduling is to be performed,
the algorithm will move to Step 148 for scheduling of a new
appointment. The operator the selects the type of schedule, whether
a single or a multi-information schedule, at Step 150, or
otherwise, can print the schedule at Step 152.
[0137] When introducing multiple patient information, and for that
matter, when introducing single patient information, the algorithm
allows for introduction of and the concomitant display of
information, such as the date, the room in which a patient may be
located, the name of the patient, the sex of the patient, weight,
birth date, city and state, and address, as well as diagnosis and
notes. This information is introduced in both multiple or single
patients at Step 154 for multiple patients, and Step 156 for single
patients. In addition, insurance information, physician information
and the scheduler, can also be introduced. There is also a
subroutine 158 for change of appointments. These appointments can
be changed and saved at Step 160.
[0138] When a schedule for one or more patients is needed, it is
possible to print that schedule at Step 162. It is also possible to
use the information to order a radioactive pharmaceutical to be
administered to a patient at Step 164. Information regarding the
administration of a dose is displayed at Step 166. There is also
provision for changing of room date and the like at Step 168, and
renewal of appointments at Step 170.
[0139] With regard to the actual dosage to be administered to a
patient, reference is made to FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B which show the
receiving of doses in Routine 110. In the routine of receiving a
dose, current doses are displayed at Step 172. A decision is made
at Step 174 to either receive doses or to not receive further
doses. If there is an election to receive no further doses, the
algorithm automatically returns to the main program at Step 176. If
there is an election to receive further doses, then there is
provided an initial handling display Step 178, in which information
must be entered. In this case, information such as the date and
time of receipt of material, the condition of the container,
placement of the packages and the labels removed, can be
introduced.
[0140] Thereafter, at Step 180 a decision is made to determine
whether or not a cold dose will be administered. In this case, a
decision to introduce other than a cold dose would be directed to
Step 182, where a survey meter is then validated. The survey meter
provides background surface information at Step 184. Also, a
selected wipe meter is validated at Step 186. In this case, the
wipe meter area is determined at Step 188, and the measurement of
any contamination from wipe areas by cotton swabs and the like can
be recorded and presented. Thus, the wipe meter can determine the
amount of radioactivity at particular locations which have been
wiped with a swab or the like.
[0141] The algorithm next moves to Step 190, which shows the entry
of a dose. When a dose is entered, the bar code on the bottle, or
other vial containing that dose, is examined at Step 192, as best
shown in FIG. 4B. If the vial or other container is scanned, the
information on the bar code is interpreted and displayed at Step
194. Product information may also be introduced at Step 196, and
include, for example, the type of product, the volume, the
calibration date, activity date, and the expiration date. If the
dose is not scanned, product information can be manually introduced
at Step 198, and this may include the same type of information at
Step 196.
[0142] A determination can then be made at Step 200, as to whether
or not the bar code is valid. This data can then be saved at Step
202, and can be modified at Step 204. If the information is
modified, then the algorithm will shift to a display of entering
doses 206. If there is no modification of the information, then a
Step 206 will allow the operator to either quit and return to the
main loop, or otherwise, to refresh the current dose, including for
example, filter, expiration date and time, and current date and
time at Step 208.
[0143] In order to view the available doses in inventory by an
operator, the step of selecting the available doses at Step 210,
can be used. This will show available doses and filter information,
as well as the expiration date and time, and the current date and
time, at Step 212. At this point, a decision is made by the
operator at Step 214 as to whether or not to quit the viewing of
available doses and if the operator elects to quit such viewing,
the algorithm returns to the main loop at Step 216. If there is a
decision to continue viewing, a decision is also made at Step 218
to enter new dose information.
[0144] New dose information provides a series of decisions for
entering this new dosage. A first decision at Step 220 determines
whether a filter is unavailable, and at Step 222 a determination is
made as to whether a filter is available. At Step 224, a decision
is made as to whether or not all material is to be filtered. In
each case, there is a display at Steps 226, 228 and 230, for each
of the previous three decision steps, which show unavailable doses,
available doses and, finally, available and unavailable doses.
[0145] A routine for selecting a dose for each patient is provided,
that is, Routine 114, is shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B of the drawings.
In this case, a display of a selection of a dose per patient is
made at Step 232. This will display, at Step 234, the available
doses only, the filter and time information, that is, the
expiration date and time, and the current date and time, and the
filter appointment date and the current date. A decision is then
made by the operator to stop the dosing routine at Step 236. If
there is an election to stop the dosing display, then the algorithm
will return to the main loop. If there is no decision to stop
dosing, the algorithm will then allow additional information to be
introduced and displayed. Thus, a decision is made as to whether or
not a patient is to be dosed at Step 238.
[0146] If a patient is not scheduled, a decision is made as to
whether or not to schedule a new appointment at step 240, the
appointment can then be made and displayed at Step 242. At Step
244, if a patient is scheduled for a new dosage, the available
doses of the selected type will be displayed. This will also
include filter information for the doses, whether or not they are
available, the expiration date and time, and the current date and
time. In addition, it is possible to edit the appointments at Step
246. In the editing, as indicated, an appointment can be scheduled
at Step 242, or otherwise, an appointment could be deleted at Step
248. This will display and take place at Step 250.
[0147] If there is no deletion of appointments, then it is possible
for the operator to show all product at Step 250. In this case,
again, all the available doses are shown at Step 252. At this
point, the patient can be dosed with information at Step 254. A
decision is made as to whether or not the patient should be dosed
at Step 256, and if so, a decision is made as to the doses which
are available at Step 258. If there is no new dose available, then
a decision must be made as to whether or not new doses must be
received at Step 260. If new doses are to be received, that
information can then be displayed at Step 262. Otherwise, it is
possible to select a different dose at Step 264.
[0148] If doses of a desired radioactive pharmaceutical are
available, then it is possible to measure the amount of radiation
for those one or more particular doses at Step 266. In this case,
the control amounts, that is, the amount of radiation can be
measured or determined, the amount to be administered can be
presented or introduced, the residual amount, that is, the amount
of radiation in a syringe after administration, and the date, time
and initials of the party entering such information can be also
entered. Thereafter, a decision is made as to whether or not a
particular pharmaceutical is administered at Step 268. From there,
the maintaining information on the actual administration is
finished at Step 270. After determination of the administration
information at Step 270, the routine returns to Step 234, in order
to operate the same routine, again, for additional patients.
[0149] If doses are to be ordered for a patient at Routine 116, a
display for ordering of doses occurs at Step 272, as shown in FIG.
7. In this case, a display 272 will show today's orders and the
date for which a new order should be made, that is, a selected
date. If the ordering of a new dose does not take place, then the
routine will return to the main loop. Otherwise, if a new dose is
to be ordered at Step 276, then the date for which the order is to
be made is introduced at Step 278, and this may include such
information as the date and time and the comments of the
operator.
[0150] If an order is made at Step 278, a determination is made as
to whether or not the order is manually entered at Step 280. In
this case, if the order is not manually entered, the order will
have to be printed at Step 282 and sent to a source, such as a
radioactive pharmacy, for delivery. Alternatively, the order can be
sent by a fax or e-mail, at Step 284. If there is a manually
entered order at Step 280, information such as the date and time,
test product information and amounts of units available, can be
introduced at Step 286. This information can be saved at Step 288
and Step 290, and then used for updating orders at Step 292. That
information is then introduced into the manual entry of orders at
Step 280.
[0151] Another main menu dealing with administration is shown in
FIGS. 8A and 8B, and deals with the selection of software
administrator at Step 292, and the tasks therefor, at Routine 118.
The selection of the software administrator deals with
administration information, such as the physicians, and the
insurance which may be available, rooms, management of the source
of radioactive pharmaceuticals, editing and monitoring steps, the
management of doses and the like.
[0152] This administration at Routine 118 is more fully illustrated
in FIGS. 8A and 8B, as aforesaid. It can be observed that after the
software administration is selected at Step 292, it is possible to
either stop at Step 294 and return to the main loop, or otherwise,
to proceed and move to Step 296. After an operation is selected at
Step 296, it is possible to move to a main set up display 298. From
this, physician information can be handled at Step 300, insurance
information at Step 302, scheduling information at Step 304, and
rooms for a particular patient at Step 306. In this case, either
information can be displayed, and in like manner, for Steps 300
through 306, it is also possible to introduce information.
[0153] Another subroutine would involve the inventory of the
radioactive pharmaceutical is provided at Step 308. In this case,
the source of radioactive material at 310 can be displayed or
entered in that step identified as sources management. At source
disposal, the information regarding the disposal of a radioactive
pharmaceutical can be displayed or entered at Step 312. The dose
information can be entered or displayed at Step 314, editing
information at Step 316, and editing doses at Step 318. In the case
of editing the inventory and editing the doses, a determination is
made as to the life of the radioactivity in those particular doses.
A system subroutine at Step 320 is also provided for tasks at Step
322, such as area monitoring, tests for a single dose at Step 324,
and study step 326 for multiple tests.
[0154] A dose management subroutine 328 is also provided and is, in
effect, an inventory subroutine. In this case, each of the
following steps can either be a display of information or an entry
of information. Thus, meter probe information can be displayed or
introduced at Step 330, the status of a survey meter can be made or
data regarding same can be entered at Step 332, and a wipe meter at
Step 334. The term "wipe meter" does not necessarily refer to a
particular type of meter, but rather, that meter which is used for
measuring the amount of radioactivity absorbed by a swab. The term
"survey meter" similarly does not refer to a particular meter per
se, although it may, and generally refers to direct measurements of
items, such as those instrumentalities used in the handling of the
radioactive pharmaceutical, e.g., syringes and the like.
[0155] Monitor items information can be introduced or displayed at
Step 336, wipe items at Step 338, monitor groups at Step 340, and
wipe groups at Step 342. In like manner, dose calibrator
information can be entered at Step 344, and a constancy set up,
which is also a dose calibrator, can be introduced or displayed at
Step 346. Again, the term "dose calibrator" does not refer to a
particular type of calibrator, but rather, the calibration of the
amount of radioactivity in a selected dose.
[0156] The system subroutine 320 also includes various related
functions, such as a backup data system which may be displayed or
entered at Step 348, available forms at Step 350, registration of
information at Step 352, and word processing at Step 354. In
actuality, Steps 352 and 354 are not really necessary in connection
with the algorithm of the invention.
[0157] In order to produce the various doses of radioactive
pharmaceutical in the dose management subroutine 238, the sleeves
which are used for producing the radioactivity, as in Step 356, can
be displayed or entered. In effect, this is a dose calibration and
is usually performed on a daily basis, in order to determine the
decay of a source of radioactive material. A DC constancy
information can be displayed or introduced at Step 358, sleeves can
be calibrated at Step 360, and a dose accuracy edit can be made at
Step 362. The term "DC" calibrator at Step 366 typically refers to
a dose calibrator and provides the accuracy thereafter. In this
case, linearity measurements provide for a check and balance of the
linearity of the radioactive material. For example, since it is
known that the radioactivity will decay over a period of time, it
is possible to determine how linear the decay may be, and the
amount of that decay.
[0158] The determination of a dose calibrator accuracy uses a known
source, such as, for example, 50 millicuries of product introduced
into a dose calibrator. Three readings are made, and if neither has
a X% deviation, as for example, a 5%, deviation, the meter is
calibrated, otherwise, that meter must be re-calibrated.
[0159] An editing of sleeve linearity information can be either
displayed or information introduced at Step 364, a DC calibrator
geometry at Step 366, an edit of a linear manual introduction at
Step 368, and a decay in storage editing can be made at Step 370.
The term "linearity" by the sleeve method, or otherwise, "sleeve
linearity", essentially refers to the insertion of a container or
other instrumentality into a lead sleeve, or other sleeve, which
will block radiation. In effect, the sleeve blocks at least a
portion, but not all, of the radiation and so, therefore, it is
necessary to calibrate all of the sleeves used in the system. The
amount of radiation normally blocked by a sleeve is known. However,
since there will be a decay factor, it is known that one must
compare that to a standard. In this way, there is a dual check.
[0160] At this point, contrast to the linearity method is also to
be noted. In the linearity method, it is known that radiation will
also degrade according to a logarithmic decay. If an instrument is
being examined, in order to determine its accuracy, it is possible
to readily determine the amount of radiation which decay. For
example, if a product of a known isotope, having a known decay, of
e.g., sixty hours is taken, those measurements can be made over an
interval and any fault in the instrument in making measurements can
be determined.
[0161] From the selection of the operation at Step 296, it is also
possible to elect a preference step at 372, as best shown in FIGS.
8A and 8B. From this an operation is selected at Step 374, and on a
main screen, a display is made at 376 and classification data can
be entered at Step 378. A dosage of a patient can be displayed at
Step 380, and after dosing thereof, at Step 382 it is possible to
determine and use residual amounts, link additional dosages after
injection, and percent of allowance on injection. The select
operation Step 374 also allows for scheduling of patients at Step
384. In this case, several fields for information are presented, as
for example, a sex field, birth date field, weight, address,
diagnosis, insurance, and physician information. A printing
operation can be actuated under the select operation subroutine
374, such as printers in Step 388. Default of the printing
operation at Step 390 will allow for return at Step 392 through the
initiation of the software administrator routine. Several of these
subroutines and the associated steps are hereinafter described in
more detail.
[0162] With regard to that routine identified as "hot labs" in Step
120, the steps of that routine are more fully set forth in FIG. 9.
In order to select the hot labs subroutine, either information is
displayed or processed at Step 394. A decision is then made by the
operator at Step 396 to either terminate the hot labs routine and
return to the main menu, or otherwise to continue and select a hot
lab operation at Step 398. As indicated previously, the term "hot
labs" refers to measurement of the amount of radioactivity in an
instrumentality or in a radioactive pharmaceutical. Thus, a dose
calibrator constancy or so-called "daily constancy", can be
displayed at Step 400. In each of the following steps, the
information can either be displayed, or otherwise, information can
be introduced.
[0163] The accuracy of any determination is introduced at Step 402.
Thereafter, a determination can be made as to whether or not there
is going to be a linearity sleeve analysis at Step 404, or the use
of a linearity manual method at Step 406. A geometry, that is, the
amount introduced into a container can be made at Step 408. A
sealed source inventory, that is, how much radioactive
pharmaceutical is present in the facility, can be made at Step 410.
No operation at Step 412 would cause a return to the beginning of
this subroutine.
[0164] The linearity sleeve method generally involves the use of a
sleeve to be inserted around a bottle or like device. The sleeve is
preferably formed of a lead material so that the amount of
radiation decay is minimal. In this case, a known isotope is used
for reference purposes. Normally, it may take a substantial period,
as for example, sixty hours to measure decay in some radioactive
materials. This measurement informs the user almost instantaneously
about any fault in the instrument making the measurements. In
short, this step allows for the calibration of any meters which
make measurements.
[0165] FIG. 10 illustrates the subroutine of reports 122, and
constitutes an important aspect of the algorithm of the present
invention. In this case, the information regarding reports can
either be processed or displayed at Step 414. At this point, the
operator can make a decision as to whether to either stop reports
and return to the main menu, or to otherwise continue at Step 416.
If the operator elects to continue, the operator can then select a
particular report to run at Step 418.
[0166] Some of those reports which can be generated include daily
reports 420 or patient reports 422, or dose tracking reports 424.
In the daily reports 420, either a true daily report 426 or a
spanned report, that is, over a period of days 428, can be
generated. The daily report identifies a single day report, whereas
the spanned reports identifies a plurality of days. Patient status
information is determined under the step of patient reports 422,
such that the status of the number of patients can be displayed or
entered at Step 430. The patient information can either be
displayed or entered at Step 432, and patient look-up information,
that is, all tests performed on that patient, can be performed at
Step 434.
[0167] With regard to dose tracking reports 424, it is possible to
either introduce or display test or process dose shipments at Step
426, the type of tests performed at Step 436, the type of tests
performed at Step 438, the container return reports, a complete
disposal report at Step 442, and a residual inventory report at
Step 444. At this point, the algorithm allows for return at Step
446 to the subroutine 122.
[0168] It is also possible to generate lab reports 448, as well as
additional reports 450. The selection of lab reports at Step 448
also carries a number of sub-steps, and which all either display
information or allow for input of information, or both. This
includes the DC accuracy at 450, sealed source inventory at Step
452, area monitoring at Step 454, and DC constancy at Step 456. In
these cases, and as indicated, information can be introduced,
processed or displayed.
[0169] The step of lab reports 448 also provides for a step of
check-in meter information 451, that is, the information relating
to a wipe monitor 460, information relating to a linearity sleeve
method 462, and information relating to a linearity manual method
464, and to geometry 466.
[0170] The term "geometry" refers to geometric variations which may
exist in the amount of radiation in a particular container. As an
example, if a container had 100 cc of a radioactive material, it
may provide an initial radiation measurement of 9.9 millicuries. If
one diluted that amount with pure water to 200 milliliters, the
radiation should still be 9.9 millicuries. However, it has been
found in practice that there can actually be some deviation. It is
important, however, to obtain consistent readings and the
"geometry" will allow for testing to determine that deviation, and
perhaps a standard deviation which may exist in dilutions.
[0171] The additional reports generally include such reports which
may be useful for the management of the organization using the
algorithm, and includes a cost report 468, a referral source 470,
and formula information 472.
[0172] The disposal of radioactive material in subroutine 124 is
more fully illustrated in FIG. 11 of the drawings, and starts with
actuation of the select disposal Step 474. The term "select
disposal" for Step 474, actually refers to the type of disposal
which will take place. Disposal is used in a broad sense to include
actual discarding, sealing in a container for delivery to a
location which is capable of handling radioactive waste, return to
the source of the radioactive pharmaceutical or the like. In each
case, tracking of the disposal must take place.
[0173] A decision is made by the operator at Step 476 to either
return to the main loop or to proceed. At this point, it is
possible to introduce the date, time and initials of the operator
to obtain a display of available inventory 480, or otherwise, to
select a particular container 482. When information about a
container is selected, various choices are available, including
information about whether or not to return to the manufacturer at
Step 484, and then to update the container and, for that matter,
the items contained in that container at Step 486. It is also
possible to measure, or otherwise, process information for a decay
in storage, at Step 488, and thereafter to update the container,
and the items contained in that container, at Step 490. There is
also a step referred to as "medical garbage" 492, and which allows
for an update of containers and items which may be held in the
container at Step 494. This routine provides for selecting any of a
variety of operations to perform at Step 496.
[0174] After the operation to perform is selected at Step 496, the
various operations which are available are shown and include an
"add to container" step, which provides for either adding
additional material or radioactivity to a container of a
radioactive pharmaceutical. There is also an "add selected
inventory" Step 500, or for that matter, a "remove selected
inventory" Step 502. Further, there is a print container and
content Step 504, which allows for printing of information for the
container and the contents thereof. Preferably, the printing would
occur in the form of printing a label.
[0175] The subroutine 124 also allows for showing of closed
containers at Step 506, and the showing of open containers at Step
508. With closed containers, it is possible to remove or add the
container back to the inventory at Step 510, and to also show or
add the open container back to the inventory at Step 512. An
additional Step 514 enables the selection of the particular
container to be either added to or removed from the inventory.
Moreover, it is possible to then perform the selected operation at
Step 516. When there is a decision to either add or remove a
container at Step 514, the container is surveyed at Step 518,
identified as "place holder", and from there this information is
introduced into the update Step 494.
[0176] The select dose calculator routine 128 is more fully
illustrated in FIG. 12, and refers to those steps involved in the
calculation of a particular dose to be administered to a patient.
In this case, the operator can start with the step of the select
dose calculator, namely, Step 520. As in the previous routines, the
operator makes a decision at Step 522 as to whether to return to
the main menu or to proceed. If the operator elects to proceed, the
operator will activate the calculator tab at Step 524 and thereby
enable selection of the particular radioactive pharmaceutical,
information such as the weight of the patient, and like
information.
[0177] In the example as illustrated, the operator can select, for
example, a heart accelerator, such as adenosine for six minutes at
Step 526, or adenosine for five minutes at Step 528. There is also
a pediatric radioactive pharmaceutical 530. Each of these steps
allow for entry of the weight of the patient at Steps 532, 534 and
536, respectively. Moreover, the selection could be for
dipyridamole, namely, a heart accelerator, at Step 538 and for
introduction of the weight of that patient 540. In each case, after
the weight of the patient is introduced, it is then possible to
determine if that input is valid at step 544. If the weight is not
valid, a displayed error message will be presented. If the weight
is valid, then the calculation routine will allow for calculation
of the amount of adenosine at Step 546, and the same holds true for
adenosine for,five minutes at Step 548, and the pediatric at Step
550, as well as the dipyridamole at Step 552.
[0178] In order to allow for proper operation of the entire
algorithm, and although the routine is fairly simple, it is
important to set the current date and time, as best shown in FIG.
13. In this case, there is a routine for setting that date and
time, and the operator would select the date/time operation at Step
554. A decision is made by the operator to either set the date or
the time, or both, at Step 556. If the operator elects not to set
the date or time, a system date or time is entered at Step 558 and
saved at Step 560. Otherwise, if a decision is made to set the date
or time at Step 562, the step will allow for setting the program
date and the program time, the list of the patient and the list of
the current tasks. Thereafter, a return to the main loop is
provided at Step 564.
[0179] In order to print a schedule, as for example, a schedule for
the following day, the following week, etc., a routine 566 is
provided. The operator will then make a decision at Step 568 as to
whether appointments are listed for that day. Inasmuch as the
scheduling of patients and the scheduling of acquisition of
radioactive pharmaceuticals is a critical part of the process for
which the algorithm has been designed, a separate print schedule
566 can be generated, as best shown in FIG. 14. This print schedule
556 is not shown in the original main loop of FIG. 2, inasmuch as
it is not one of the functions normally performed. However, it does
allow for an operator to examine the schedule to acquire necessary
information constantly. The print schedule 566 provides for a
decision block to determine whether or not appointments for that
particular day exist, at 568. If the operator desires to view such
current appointments, the algorithm will create a schedule report,
including current appointments. This report will include, for
example, office information, that is, name, address and
identification number, as well as appointment information, that is,
time, name, test and phone of the patient. This information is
shown in Step 570.
[0180] If the operator elects not to view the appointments for that
day, there will be display of an error message to the effect that
there are no appointments to present at Step 572. However, assuming
that the operator has elected to obtain that information at Step
570, that information is displayed on a screen at Step 574. The
operator can also make a decision at Step 576 to determine whether
or not to print that schedule, and by sending that information to a
printer at Step 578. Thereafter, the algorithm returns to the
scheduling of the patient at Step 580. Following the desirability
of a scheduling of patients, there are several subroutines for
dealing with evaluation and measurement, as well as accuracy
determinations. All of these subroutines are necessary when dealing
with a radioactive material.
[0181] The first of these evaluations is a meter validation 582.
The first of these meter validations is that of a survey meter
validation. The operator is also provided with a decision step 584
to determine whether or not to proceed with validation or not to
proceed. If the operator decides to obtain such a meter validation,
the algorithm will proceed to Step 586 to obtain the meter data.
Such data will include the initials of the operator, the time and
date of the validation, a probe calibration date, a battery pass or
fail test, a source name, a serial number, and MR/HR current
reading. Obviously, other data could be included or some of this
data could be eliminated, as may be desired. After all of this data
has been presented to the operator at Step 586, the operator can
then accept or not accept the survey at Step 588. If the operator
accepts the survey at Step 588, a Step 590 automatically occurs to
save that survey in the database.
[0182] FIG. 15B provides for a wipe meter validation, as opposed to
a survey meter validation, and is essentially the same as FIG. 15A,
with the exception that it deals with a wipe meter as opposed to a
survey meter. The survey meter validation is shown in FIG. 15A.
Consequently, the steps in connection with validation of the wipe
meter in FIG. 15B are the same as those steps in FIG. 15A. Again,
it is to be understood that the term "wipe meter" and the term
"survey meter" do not refer to a particular meter per se, but
rather, to the type of monitoring activity which takes place.
[0183] "Daily constancy" is a term used to refer to the consistency
in the amount of radioactivity in a particular dose of a selected
radioactive pharmaceutical. Thus, for example, patients may be
administered the same dosage of the same radioactive pharmaceutical
on different days. It is quite important to insure that the measure
of the radioactivity on one day is essentially consistent with the
amount of radioactivity on another day. In addition, it is
important to insure that the radioactivity of one pharmaceutical is
correlated directly to the radioactivity of another pharmaceutical.
Thus, it is also equally important to insure that any calibrator
used to measure this constancy is consistent.
[0184] The algorithm thereby provides for a daily constancy
determination at Step 592 in FIG. 16. The operator similarly has a
choice to determine whether or not to examine the daily constancy,
or to avoid such examination at Step 594. If there is essentially
no decision to examine the daily constancy at Step 594, the
algorithm automatically causes a return to the hot labs Routine
120. However, proceeding with a daily constancy allows for the
operator to input both time and date and, potentially, the initials
of the operator at Step 596. At that point, the operator then
selects a calibrator in order to make such a determination at Step
598. If the constancy determination has already been performed for
that selected calibrator, the algorithm will automatically alert
the operator at Step 598. Thus, the operator then has a choice at
Step 600 to determine if that calibration has already been
performed. If it has been performed, there will be a display of an
error message at Step 602, and which may provide a statement to the
effect that the dose calibrator has been completed for that day,
but that the operator can edit the information. If the calibration
has not been performed, there will be several dose calibrator
measurements at Step 604.
[0185] For purposes of describing the dose calibrator measurements,
there is given an example of a measurement with cesium (Cs), copper
(Cu), cobalt (Co), and barium (Ba). More specifically, for purposes
of this example, a measurement is made for cesium-137 (Cs-137),
cobalt-57 (Co-57) and barium (Ba-133). The measurements may be
performed with technium (Te-99 m). An example of a cesium-137
measurement is set forth below: [0186]
I-123(uCi)/TI-201(uCi)/Cs-137(uCi)/Tc-99 m(uCi)/Co-57(uCi) p1
Xe-133(uCi)/I-131(uCi)/Ga-67(uCi)/In-111(uCi)/Other(uCi)
[0187] After the calibration has been determined at Step 604, the
operator can then elect to accept the values determined at Step 606
or, otherwise, cancel such determination. If the operator elects to
accept the values of Step 606, the operator can so indicate and the
algorithm will automatically save the constancy to a database at
Step 608.
[0188] Dose accuracy is determined at Routine 610 in FIG. 17 of the
drawings. As indicated in connection with the main loop of FIG. 2,
the doses may be ordered from an external source, or they may be
prepared in the pharmaceutical laboratory. In either case, it is
important to know about the accuracy of the pharmaceutical and the
accuracy of the radioactivity contained in that pharmaceutical
dose. This routine involves a determination of the accuracy of the
equipment, and not the doses per se. In effect, this is a quality
control test usually performed on a bi-annual basis. After the
operator elects to perform a dose accuracy, the operator has an
opportunity at Step 612 to either proceed or not to proceed. If the
operator elects not to proceed, the present accuracy level, if
known, is maintained and the algorithm will return to the hot labs
Routine 120 at Step 614. If the operator does proceed with the dose
accuracy, the operator can introduce identification information,
such as the operator's initials, the time and date at Step 616. The
operator will then select a particular calibrator at Step 618.
[0189] If the calibration at Step 618 has already been performed,
the algorithm will generate that information, such that a decision
is made at Step 620. If the calibration has been performed, an
error message will be displayed at Step 623. A message to the
effect that, "the dose accuracy has been finished for the day and
you may edit it only." However, if there has been no calibration
for that day, the algorithm will cause the routine to move to Step
622 for a first source. In this case, the first source provides
information for the first assayed amount, the second assayed
amount, and the third assayed amount. If the operator does not
elect to determine the accuracy of a second source, the algorithm
will provide for an acceptance of the values at Step 624, and will
thereupon either save the accuracy values to the database at Step
626, or return to the hot labs at Step 614.
[0190] The dose accuracy routine also allows for determinations of
assays with second and third sources. These sources may be
different radioactive test compositions, or otherwise, different
radioactive test compositions. The second source similarly provides
for a first assayed amount, a second assayed amount, and a third
assayed amount source at Step 628. The algorithm can then allow the
operator to determine if there will be an accuracy determination of
yet a third source at Step 630. If there is to be a determination
of a third source, then the algorithm will proceed to Step 632,
where there is, again, a first assayed amount, a second assayed
amount, and a third assayed amount. This will also provide a
constancy determination or measurement of consistency.
[0191] It should be understood that although the dose accuracy
Routine 610 provides for either assay with first, second and third
sources, it is also possible to provide for an accuracy
determination with yet a fourth source, a fifth source, etc. Those
determinations would be performed in essentially the same manner as
the first, second and third source determinations were made. The
algorithm would merely be expanded accordingly.
[0192] FIG. 18 illustrates the routine for a linearity sleeve
calibration 634. In effect, a sample can be placed in a suitable
container, such as a vial, and inserted into a sleeve, such as a
cylindrical open ended sleeve, and preferably, a lead sleeve. In
effect, in the linearity sleeve calibration method, there is a
simulation of time so that one can determine the logarithmic decay
of an isotope in the radioactive pharmaceutical, over a period of
time. The decay of this isotope is effectively compared with a
known decay value for the same isotope. The sleeve linearity method
is effective, in that it substantially reduces the amount of time
which would be required for measurement of a normal decay, in
absence thereof.
[0193] The operator can determine whether or not to proceed with a
linearity sleeve calibration routine at Step 636. If there is no
election to make a linearity sleeve calibration, the algorithm will
automatically return to the hot labs Routine 120. In addition, it
will cause a selection of any previous values that may have been
determined. If the operator elects to proceed at Step 636 with the
linearity sleeve method, the operator will cause an identification
at Step 638, including for example, the operator's initials, the
time and date. Thereafter, a particular calibrator is selected at
Step 640. At that point, a determination will be made as to whether
or not this calibration has been performed at Step 642. If the
calibration has been performed an error message will be provided at
Step 644, with the display of a message to the effect that
calibration has already been performed.
[0194] If the calibration has not been performed, the operator then
selects the sleeves for calibration at Step 646. This may be
operated in conjunction with prompts from a display screen,
advising of which sleeves have or have not been calibrated.
Thereafter, fill calibration factors are introduced at Step 648.
These fill calibration factors present all of the information
necessary about the sleeve, and shows any percent deviation from
the normal. Calibrations may be conducted, for example, with the
following color combinations: black/black; red/black+orange;
black+yellow/black; green/black; and blue/black+purple.
[0195] Thereafter, the select source can be displayed at Step 650.
In this case, there will be a display of the amount of the isotope
which is generating the radioactivity in any particular
pharmaceutical. Measured values of the input assayed activity is
then conducted at Step 652. The same color combinations that were
used for the fill calibration factors in Step 648 are also used. In
this case, one takes the black and disposes a red sleeve over that,
then an orange sleeve, and in each case, calculates the percent
deviation and the correction value therefor. Finally, it is then
possible to calculate program values for each calibration factor at
Step 654. The assayed time with respect to the decay corrected
value, and the assayed percent of deviation, is also determined. At
this point, the operator can determine whether or not to accept the
values which are then determined at Step 656. If the operator
accepts those values it will be transferred to the database at Step
658.
[0196] Linearity may also be determined by the manual method
Routine 670, in FIG. 19 of the drawings. In this case, the same
type of information which is obtained in the linearity sleeve
method is also determined in the linearity manual method, except
that in this case, the linearity and the various calibrations are
determined manually. Thus, the operator can determine whether to
proceed with the manual linearity method at Step 672. If the
operator does so elect to stop this method, then the algorithm will
automatically return to the hot lab Routine 120.
[0197] If there is a linearity determination by the manual method,
then the identification information is taken at Step 674 which,
again, includes the initials of the operator, the time and the
date. Thereafter, a calibrator is selected at Step 676. Again,
another decision is made at Step 678 as to whether or not this
calibration has already been made. If the calibration has been made
a display or a message will be presented at Step 680, with a
message to the effect that the method cannot be performed twice on
the same day. If this routine has not been performed, on that date,
then there will be a selection of the source for this method at
Step 682. From there, the fill calibration information can then be
introduced. In this case, the calibration date, the calibration
time and the calibration activity can be input or presented at Step
684. The values of the input assayed activity can then be input at
Step 686. Again, a decision is made at Step 688 to either save
these values or, otherwise, to discard them. If these manual values
are saved, they are then stored at Step 690. The hours, time, date,
the assayed activity base hours, the predicted activity, and the
percent deviation can then be displayed or input.
[0198] At this point, after all input values have been saved, it is
possible print a plot of this information at Step 692. The manual
values from this method can also be saved at Step 694. After the
values from the linearity manual method have been saved at Step
694, it is possible to then terminate the linearity manual method
of calibration. Further, it is also possible to return to the hot
labs routine previously described.
[0199] As indicated previously, the term "geometry" refers to that
determination as to whether or not the calibrators themselves are
making accurate measurements of radioactivity. Thus, and as
indicated previously, if a source indicates a specific number of
millicuries of radiation, that source should provide the same
reading if it is diluted with a non-radioactive substance.
Determination of this geometry, which is really a geometric
variation, is set forth in FIG. 20 of the drawings. In this case,
there is a subroutine for geometry at Step 696 which may, again, be
referred to as a geometric variation. Again, the operator can make
a decision at Step 698, as to whether to proceed or terminate this
routine. If there is a termination, the algorithm will return to
the hot labs routine at Step 698. If there is a determination by
the operator to proceed with this geometric variation examination,
the operator will introduce his initials, time and date, at Step
700. A particular calibrator, such as the dose calibrator, is
selected at Step 710. A determination is then made as to whether or
not this calibration has been made at Step 712. If this calibration
has been made, a display error message will show at Step 714. In
effect, this display error message may read "the dose calibrator
geometry has already been performed for this day."
[0200] If there was no calibration performed for a particular day,
the algorithm will then identify a selected source to be evaluated
at Step 716. This source may be a syringe or a vial, or other
element which is going to be evaluated. Thereafter, fill
calibration information is provided at Step 718. This information
may include calibration date, the calibration time and the
calibration activity. Thereafter, the assayed activity is then
measured at Step 720. This would include the input assayed activity
and the measured values, as for example, volume with respect to
time and with respect to assayed activity.
[0201] The Routine 696 also allows for the algorithm to calculate
certain measurements at Step 722, as for example, a decay
correction value, the correction factor and normalization activity.
This can be performed on multiple occasions. Thereafter, the values
which were calculated at Step 722 are then saved at Step 724.
Further, the geometry values or geometric variation values are
saved in the database at Step 726. At this point, the operator can
close this routine at Step 728, and either return to this routine
again, or return to the hot labs Routine 698.
[0202] A physicians information subroutine 300 is more fully
illustrated in FIG. 21 of the drawings. This is essentially the
same subroutine, which is identified in FIG. 8A of the drawings.
This particular routine allows for display of information about any
one or more physicians, the identifications of which are already
introduced into the database. This subroutine also allows for
introduction of information about a physician, who may not have
been introduced previously into the database, to be presently
introduced.
[0203] The subroutine 300 involves the determination as to whether
or not to proceed at Step 730. If there is determination not to
proceed with physician information, the operator can make that
decision and return to the software administrator at Step 732.
Otherwise, the operator would proceed to Step 734, in which all
physician information is listed. This may be a listing of any
selected physician, the identification of which has previously been
introduced into the software and include, for example, the name and
identification number, or the introduction of a new physician
thereto. Thereafter, the routine allows for selection of a
physician at Step 736, and the selection of an operation to be
performed at Step 738. When the select operation is initiated,
there is a possibility of introducing data about a new physician
not previously introduced into the system at Step 740. There is
also a possibility of editing information about physicians at Step
742, as for example, changing the name or identification number of
that physician. Step 744 allows for deletion of that physician, and
Step 746 allows for no selection of any one physician.
[0204] If a new physician is to be introduced into the system, the
operator will introduce information at Step 748. This would
include, for example, the name and identification number. In like
manner, if the information about a physician is to be edited, that
information will be edited by the operator at Step 750. This
information from Steps 748 and 750 is then saved, if desired, at
Step 752. The values of this information is then added to the
database at Step 754.
[0205] If there is a decision to delete the physician, in order to
insure that there is no error in this election, the operator,
again, is provided with a decision Step 756 and if the operator
does not wish to confirm the deletion of that physician, the
routine will return to the beginning. If the operator elects to
confirm that deletion, that information will be deleted at Step
758.
[0206] FIG. 22 illustrates the insurance information subroutine
302, which also shows in FIG. 8A of the drawings. In this case,
reference numerals, which have been used to identify physician
information in FIG. 21, will be used in FIG. 22 to identify like
activities. However, it should be understood in connection with
FIG. 22, that the activities set forth are applicable to insurance
and not physician information. However, since the activities are
essentially the same, the reference numbers for those activities in
FIG. 21 are employed in FIG. 22.
[0207] With regard to insurance information, as opposed to
physician information, the name of the insurer, the street address,
city, state and zip code, possibly phone number, the principal
contact at that organization, title, etc., may be introduced.
Again, this subroutine provides for an introduction of new
insurance, editing of the insurance, deleting the insurance, or no
operation. Again, if insurance information is introduced, it would
include the same information, such as the name of the insurer, the
street address, the city, state and zip code, phone numbers, etc.
The same would hold true if the insurance information was modified,
or if the insurance information was deleted.
[0208] The scheduler subroutine 304 is more fully illustrated in
FIG. 23 of the drawings. Here again, the same reference numerals
which have been used in connection with physician information in
FIG. 21, will be used in FIG. 23 for like activities. As indicated,
essentially the same activities occurred in connection with FIG. 22
for the insurance information subroutine 302.
[0209] The scheduler information is that information relating to
the individual who schedules the treatment of the patients and the
ordering of supplies, and like information. In this case, the name
and identification of the scheduler would be used in place of the
physician in the subroutine 300 of FIG. 21. Beyond this, all of the
activities, and the steps identified thereby, are essentially the
same.
[0210] The room information subroutine 306 is more fully shown in
FIG. 24 of the drawings. Again, the activities performed with
respect to the room information is essentially the same as that set
forth in physician information Routine 300, FIG. 21. Hence, again,
like reference numerals identifying the same activity in FIG. 21
will be used in FIG. 24. The room information is essentially self
explanatory, and identifies the particular room in which either an
operation will occur, that is, in effect, the room in which the
patient will be located for these particular activities. The dose
information subroutine 314 is more fully illustrated in FIG. 25 of
the drawings. Again, the term "dose" information is self
explanatory, in that it provides for the doses of a selected
product, and particularly, a radioactive pharmaceutical product,
which is to be administered to a patient. Also, since the
activities are the same as those for physician information in FIG.
21, the same reference numerals used in FIG. 21 will also be used
in FIG. 25. However, with regard to entry of dose information and
the modification of dose information, a product description would
be entered. In addition, the half life, possibly in terms of hours,
the shelf life, possibly in terms of hours, and the cost
information may also be identified in Steps 748 and 750 of FIG. 25.
Again, the dose values, which are saved to the database at Step 754
in FIG. 25, would include the product description, the half life,
the shelf life, and potentially, the cost.
[0211] There is also provided a source information subroutine 760,
more fully illustrated in FIG. 26 of the drawings. In this case, a
user can inquire from the database about source information, such
as activity level calibration data and the like. Thus, activity
levels could be listed, and for that matter, de-listed, since they
are primarily used for instrument calibration information. As
indicated previously, a constancy quality control examination may
be made, and in this case, information can be introduced into the
database. This information is, however, for purposes of insuring a
daily constancy.
[0212] Again, it is to be noted that the activities performed in
the sources information are essentially the same activities
performed in the physician information subroutine 300 and, again,
like reference numerals employed in FIG. 21 will also be employed
in this FIG. 26. The sources disposal subroutine 312 is more fully
illustrated in FIG. 27 of the drawings. This subroutine starts with
a decision by the operator at Step 762, to determine whether or not
to proceed with this subroutine, or return to the software
administrator at Step 764. If there is an election to proceed, the
operator will set the date and the operator's initials at Step 766,
in order to identify that operator.
[0213] The source disposal subroutine provides information about
the sources of items included in the database, and particularly,
radioactive items and the location of those items. In particular,
the source disposal subroutine 312, is concerned with elimination
of all finished radioactive instrumentalities and radioactive
materials. This subroutine provides that necessary record keeping
information as to what happened to the particular instrumentality
or pharmaceutical involved. In this case, all available inventory,
that is, all available source materials, are identified at Step
768. This would include the calibration time, calibration date, and
calibration activity. Thereafter, the operator can observe and
potentially select the particular disposal option at Step 770. The
operator can elect to provide for return to the manufacturer at
Step 772, provide for decay and storage at Step 774, deliver the
medical garbage at Step 776, or to restore at Step 778.
[0214] Alter selection of a particular disposal option, each one of
the selection decisions would move to Step 780, in which there is a
list of all inventory for this particular selection disposal
option. This would include, for example, the calibration time,
calibration date, calibration activity, and like items. In effect,
all inventory in the decay Step 774 would be shown. Thereafter, the
operator can select the item to be treated in Step 782. In essence,
there will be a selection of the particular source and what to do
with that source. In other words, is there an election to move the
source to the disposal option. If there is such a decision in Step
782, the operation itself is performed at Step 784. Thereafter, the
algorithm will allow for return to Step 786 for no operation.
[0215] The editing of inventory subroutine 316 is more fully
illustrated in FIG. 28 of the drawings. In this case, the operator
will elect to either quit this routine at Step 790 and return to
the software administrator at Step 792. Otherwise, election to
proceed will provide for the operator to set the date range
involved, that is, from a given date to a given date, at Step 794.
In this case, the operator can elect to either show the inventory
or not show the inventory at Step 796. If the operator proceeds to
show all of the inventory, that inventory will be listed at Step
798 for that specific date range, identified at Step 794.
[0216] Inventory information may include, for example, a
description of the inventory, a calibration of the activity, the
calibration date, the calibration time, the delivery number,
expiration date, expiration time, the date received and the time
received, the receiver's initials, the volumetric units, and like
information. After all this information has been displayed for the
selected inventory in that selected date range, a decision is made
as to whether or not to edit that information at Step 800. If that
information is to be edited, again, the initials of the operator,
the date and time, the description of the product, the volume in
units, the calibration date, the calibration activity, the
expiration date and expiration time can all be edited, or any
portion thereof can be edited, at Step 802. Thereafter, a decision
is made to either save the inventory information at Step 804, or to
delete that inventory information at Step 806. If there is a
decision to save the inventory information, that value is saved at
the database in Step 808, and if there is a decision to delete this
information, it is deleted from the inventory database at Step
810.
[0217] Patient dose information can be edited in subroutine 318, as
more fully illustrated in FIG. 29 of the drawings. In this case,
the patient dose information allows for the operator to make a
decision at Step 812, to either quit the editing subroutine and
return to the software administrator at Step 814, or otherwise, to
proceed. If the operator proceeds, the date range is set at Step
816. This information would include, for example, the dose
information for a particular patient from a given date to a given
date.
[0218] Thereafter, the subroutine 318 provides for an operator to
determine whether or not to show the patient doses at Step 820. If
there is a decision not to show the patient dosage, then the
algorithm will return to the beginning of the patient dose
information. Otherwise, the algorithm will then provide for listing
all patient dose information at Step 822. In this case, the
schedule, the dosage activity, the dosage activity units involved,
the date injected, the time injected, and the operator's initials,
are all either input or displayed at Step 822.
[0219] Following the information in Step 822, the operator can
decide whether or not to edit the item in Step 824. In this case,
any particular item illustrated in Step 822, can be edited. Again,
the edit information would include the initials of the operator,
the date, the name of the prescription involved, the prescription
number, the dosed activity, the dosed activity units, the residual
product amount at Step 826. After the information has been edited,
the algorithm allows the operator to either save this information
at Step 828, or to delete this information at Step 830. If there is
a decision to delete the information, the algorithm will return to
the beginning of this subroutine at Step 818. Otherwise, the values
of these doses can be deleted from the patient dose database at
Step 832. If there is an election to save this information, the
information will be saved in the database at Step 834.
[0220] FIG. 30 illustrates the task information subroutine 322.
Those steps involved in the task information are essentially
identical to the steps involved in the physician information
subroutine 300 in FIG. 21. Here again, like reference numerals will
be used to represent like activities. However, it should be
recognized that some of the information which may be presented or,
otherwise, input may be different, although the activities are
essentially the same as presented in FIG. 21.
[0221] Referring to the task information in FIG. 30, the subroutine
is essentially the same as for the physician information subroutine
31, and essentially parallels that subroutine. However, in this
case, the task information includes the name, description and type
of task involved, the days of the week involved, the month, day and
year, and whether or not this is a quarterly information selection.
The select task operation at Step 736 may constitute, for example,
a monitoring of a selected area or a monitoring of a selected
instrumentality. The select operations Step 738, in this case,
would constitute those groups of items which are to be
monitored.
[0222] One of the important aspects of task information is the fact
that it operates as a type of reminder program, which is linked
directly to the process performed by the algorithm. This task
information routine will prompt the user to do several functions.
As an example, this routine will cause the user to do daily
constancy examinations and daily backup examinations.
[0223] Another one of the important aspects of task information is
the fact that the user literally has the ability to introduce those
tasks which the user desires to perform for that particular
organization. Thus, as a simple example, when a task is presented,
the operator can merely examine that particular task and by using
the cursor to move to that particular function, or to go directly
to that function if the computer is equipped with a touch operated
screen. Thus, it can be seen that task information is effective
both as a reminder, and which also allows an organization to easily
insert the tasks which it would like to have performed on a
periodic routine.
[0224] Task information at Step 748 would provide for the entry of
the name of the party, the description and type of information, the
days, month and year. That same information would be provided if
there was an election to modify the task information. Finally, that
same information would occur when deleting that information at Step
758, or saving that information to the database at Step 754 of FIG.
30.
[0225] FIG. 31 illustrates the test information subroutine 322 in
more detail. In this case, the test information subroutine closely
parallels the physician information subroutine 300, as shown in
FIG. 21. Consequently, those like reference numerals used in FIG.
21 are also used in FIG. 31.
[0226] Inasmuch as the activities in test information 322 are the
same as activities in the physician information subroutine 300, the
activities will not be again described. However, the information
which is introduced or which is generated is different than in FIG.
21, and relates to those tests which have been conducted.
[0227] Particularly, these tests are designed to provide
information about the radioactivity of certain radioactive
pharmaceutical products which are to be administered. However,
these tests could also be used for measuring instrumentalities and
the like.
[0228] In effect, the term "test information" really refers to
tasks which have to be performed with regard to a patient. Task
information in the previous routine referred to those activities
which had to be performed, but not necessarily, with respect to a
particular patient. Test information, however, deals only with
patients.
[0229] In Step 734 of FIG. 31, in place of physician information,
the test information is introduced and includes, for example, the
name and description of the product, the identification of that
product, such as an identification number, the absolute units of
the product. There is also a determination of whether or not such
test is applicable to this product. The same information is
provided at Step 748 and step 750, as well as Steps 754 and 758, in
FIG. 31 of the drawings.
[0230] It is to be noted, that the selection of a test to be
performed, such as the selection of a physician in Step 736 in FIG.
21, is not used. Such information is not required for test
information. However, after the operation 738 is selected, the
subroutine proceeds in essentially the same manner as the
subroutine 300 for physician information in FIG. 21.
[0231] FIG. 32 shows the study information subroutine 326 in more
detail. This subroutine has many of the steps in common with test
information. In this case, the operator can make a decision at Step
836 as to whether to return to the software administrator at Step
838 or to list the available studies to be performed at Step 840.
After all of the available studies at test 840 have been either
input or displayed, the subroutine proceeds to Step 842 where a
listing of all such study information is provided. Specifically,
the name and description of the study is identified at Step 842.
From this, the operator may select a particular study at Step 844.
Thereafter, the study information for that particular study is
identified at Step 846. This information would include the study
tests involved, the hours and the minutes involved, and the name of
the test and the description of the test, or other information, if
desired. It is possible to select a particular operation at Step
848, if desired. However, this step could be deleted, if
desired.
[0232] Study information is closely related to test information, in
that it involves information which has been obtained with respect
to patients. Typically, study information involves the grouping of
tests into individual blocks. Thus, if a patient had a plurality of
similar tests, and one wished to examine the history of the results
of those tests with that particular patient, the study routine
would allow an automatic gathering of the tests for that particular
patient, and which would thereby allow examination of the tests for
that patient. In like manner, it is possible to examine tests
performed only with one particular radioactive pharmaceutical used
on that patient, and also another study for examining the results
of administration of a different radioactive pharmaceutical for
that same patient.
[0233] After selection of the operation, a decision is made as to
perform a new study at Step 850, edit a selected study at Step 852,
delete a study at Step 854, or perform no operation at Step 856. If
no operation is performed, the subroutine returns to the beginning
of the study information.
[0234] If a new study is selected at Step 850, it will be necessary
to identify the name and description of the study, whether to add
or remove the study, the test names and the test descriptions
involved. That same information would apply at Step 858. If there
was a decision to edit the study at Step 852, then modify study
information is introduced at Step 860. This is the same information
which would be entered into the enter study information Step
858.
[0235] If there is a decision to delete the test, the operator is
then queried as to whether or not he or she confirms a deletion of
that test at Step 862. If so, the information is deleted at Step
864. If the information is to be saved at Step 866, that
information is then saved and introduced into the database at Step
868.
[0236] The meter probes subroutine 330 is more fully illustrated in
FIG. 33 of the drawings. In this case, the steps performed are the
same steps as those used in the physician information subroutine of
FIG. 21. Consequently, the same activities provided in FIG. 21 will
carry the same reference numerals in FIG. 33. The primary
difference is that in place of physician information, information
regarding meter probes is provided.
[0237] In connection with the performance of the algorithm, probes
are used with each of the meters that are tested. Moreover, probe
information would relate to the name, the description of the probe,
the model number, potentially the manufacturer, and the serial
number. Different probes may be used with the various meters and it
is important to insure that each probe provides the same
information. Inasmuch as there could be a difference between
results from the different probes with the same meter, the probes
are specifically identified and tested, in accordance with the
subroutine 330.
[0238] FIG. 34 illustrates the subroutine meter analysis 332,
identified in FIG. 8A of the drawings. In this case, meter
information, such as the survey meter information, can be displayed
on the screen of a monitor for the user. The algorithm in this case
is very similar to the algorithm for FIG. 33 and, therefore, like
reference numerals will be used. In this case, the meter analysis
shows that for the survey meter. However, and although there is no
particular subroutine shown for a wipe meter analysis, that
analysis would be essentially the same as shown in FIG. 34.
[0239] The flow of the algorithm is almost identical to that of
FIG. 33. Even the information which is generated and introduced is
similar. In the case of the survey meter, Step 34 would carry the
name and description of the meter, the model number, the
manufacturer's serial number, the calibration date, the name of the
operator, and the probe number. Similar information would be
introduced at the enter survey meter information Step 748, modify
the meter information at Step 750, delete that information at Step
758, and save the information at Step 754.
[0240] With regard to a subroutine for the wipe meter, and although
not illustrated, the information sought or introduced is almost
identical. However, with regard to the wipe meter, there may be
information regarding the percent of efficiency of the probe used
therewith.
[0241] FIG. 35 illustrates that Routine 335 for monitor of items.
Again, the routine is identical to that shown for meter probes in
FIG. 33 and, therefore, the entire routine is not described herein.
However, with regard to the items which are monitored, these items
are essentially non-patient items. In particular, they are the
areas or items which have come into contact with the radiation.
Tables, counter tops, syringes, probes and the like, thus, fall
into this category. Some of the information which may be introduced
or displayed is that dealing with the name of the item, the
description of the item and, particularly, a "trigger value". This
is essentially the value in which the amount of radiation exceeds a
predetermined level. This is important to know so that the
individual handling the items which may be radioactive is not
overexposed.
[0242] FIGS. 36A and 36B deal with the monitor of groups of items,
and is that Routine 340 identified in FIG. 8. In this case, the
monitor group will refer to certain items which have been grouped
together for purposes of analyzing those items, or of determining
other information relating to those items. Thus, and for example,
if certain items were included in a room identified as A, those
items may constitute one group, and the items in another room
identified as B would constitute the items for that group, and so
forth.
[0243] It is also possible to group items by the types of items.
For example, all probes can be analyzed, all meters can be
analyzed, etc. This type of information can be effective in
determining, for example, if one technician was not performing his
or her tasks properly, or otherwise, inefficiently. Thus, the
ability to allow examination of these items by groups can be quite
advantageous.
[0244] The Routine 340 also includes that decision making Step 870,
which allows for an operator to either decide to quit the routine
and return to the software administrator at Step 872, or to
proceed. If the operator proceeds, information regarding the
lifting of all available groups can be displayed at Step 874. In
this case, for example, the name of a particular group and the
description can be identified. In the case of meters, there may be
a naming and description of the meters involved in that particular
group. Assuming that meters were to be monitored, the operator then
selects a particular operation to be performed at Step 876.
Thereafter, all of the available monitor groups are identified at
Step 878. This would include the name and description of the meter,
as well as the particular meter or meters involved.
[0245] The operator can then decide to either introduce a new
monitor group at Step 880, to edit the monitor group at Step 882,
or to delete the monitor group at Step 884. There is also a Sep 886
which allows the operator to edit the group results. Thus, for
example, if one item got included by mistake, the operator could
eliminate that item at Step 886, or otherwise, to correct
information which may have been erroneously introduced.
[0246] If there is an election to monitor a new group, then the
algorithm will proceed to Step 888 which allows for the operator to
enter the name and description, and in this example, the meter
numbers of the meters involved. The same holds true if there is to
be an editing of the monitor group at Step 882. In this case, the
Step 890 will allow for modification of the information. Finally,
with regard to deletion of the monitor group at Step 884, there is
provided a decision for the operator at Step 892 to either confirm
the deletion of that information or not confirm that deletion. If
there is a decision to continue with a deletion of the information,
that information is deleted at Step 894.
[0247] If there is a decision to enter monitor group information,
such as new monitor group information, or to either modify that
monitor group information, the operator can then decide at Step 896
whether or not to save the information. If the information is
saved, then the routine will automatically return to the beginning
of the monitor group Routine 340.
[0248] If there is an election to delete any information, as for
example, at Step 894, the operator is also given the prerogative to
delete certain monitor group information, and not all of the
information at Step 894. The operator can then change the grouping
of the items at Step 898. If there is a changing of the group items
at Step 898, this routine will then allow a listing of all of the
monitor group items which may be changed at Step 890. Thereafter,
the operator can select the monitor group item to be modified or
changed at Step 892. At this same step, the operator can add items
to the group or delete items to the group. The operator can then
create a new item at Step 894, add one or more items to a group at
Step 896, remove an item from the group at Step 898, or to perform
no operation at Step 900. If there is to be a creation of a new
item, then that information can be introduced at Step 902. The
operator can then decide whether or not to save that information at
Step 904. If the operator elects to save that information, the
values thereof will be stored in the database at Step 906. The
algorithm will then allow return to a listing of all of the group
monitor items at Step 890.
[0249] If the operator elects to edit the monitor group at Step
882, the algorithm allows for the operator to select a date for
editing at Step 908, and with the results thereafter being
displayed at Step 910. After this, the group results are modified
at Step 912. The operator again makes a decision as to whether or
not to save this modified result at Step 914, and if there is an
election to save, then the values are stored at the database at
Step 916. The algorithm then returns to Step 918 (see FIG. 36A),
and hence, to the beginning of this Routine 340.
[0250] It should be recognized that it is possible to include that
Routine 342 in essentially the same format as the monitor groups of
FIGS. 36A and 36B. In essence, the steps would be the same,
although information introduced or displayed might very
slightly.
[0251] FIG. 37 illustrates that Routine 344 illustrated in FIG. 8A
of the drawings dealing with dose calibrators. The dose calibrator
constitutes a way of indirectly determining the amount of radiation
which is introduced into a patient, by measuring the amount of
millicuries which were injected into the patient. However, this
particular examination is more specifically concerned with the
calibrator per se. In this case, the, information which is
generated in this subroutine 344 is concerned with the actual
calibrator per se, as opposed to the dosage which was injected into
the patient.
[0252] The dose calibrator subroutine very closely parallels that
routine dealing with task information in FIG. 30. Again, like
reference numerals will be used to represent like steps appearing
in FIG. 30. However, in Steps 734, 748, 750 and 758 of FIG. 37, the
information listed for the dose calibrator would be the name and
description of a calibrator, the model number, the manufacturer,
and serial number. Again, some of this information could be deleted
and other information could be added, if desired.
[0253] The dose calibrator constancy Step 346, identified as "DC
constancy setup" in FIG. 8A, is more fully illustrated in FIG. 38
of the drawings. In this case, the constancy of the calibrator is
measured. In other words, the calibrator should render the same
reading day after day. The calibrator may be measured with a
radioactive source such as, for example, cesium, which has a thirty
year half life. Consequently, the radioactivity measured the
calibrator does not change. However, if the calibrator is measured
against the cesium and a different reading is obtained then, by
definition, the problem lies with the calibrator.
[0254] The constancy Routine 346 allows the operator to either
continue with this constancy calibration at Step 920, and if the
operator elects to cease this constancy calibration, the routine
will return to the software administrator at Step 922. If the
operator elects to continue with this constancy evacuation, then
the operator must identify himself or herself by their initials,
and the date and time at Step 924. At this point, the operator then
selects a particular calibrator for which to determine constancy at
Step 926.
[0255] The operator then can determine if a calibration constancy
determination has already been made at Step 928. As an example, the
operator can determine if that calibrator was already evaluated for
that particular day. If the calibration has already been performed,
then the algorithm will generate a display to the effect that the
display has already been performed for this meter at Step 930. The
operator can then elect either to edit this routine at Step 932 and
return to the software administrator or, otherwise, to continue
with the calibration at Step 934. The calibration is essentially
the same as that calibration performed in Step 604 of FIG. 16,
dealing with the daily constancy. Consequently, the actual
calibration steps are not described in any further detail herein.
However, this routine at Step 346 does allow the operator to either
accept the values determined at Step 936 and return to the software
administrator at Step 922 or, otherwise, save the constancy as a
default at Step 938 and also return to the software administrator
Step 922.
[0256] The dose calibrator constancy edit Routine 358, as shown in
FIG. 8A of the drawings, is more fully set forth in FIG. 39. In
this case, the constancy edit allows for any change in the
calibrator constancy determination. Moreover, the calibrator
constancy edit essentially includes those same steps performed for
the dose calibrator constancy determination at Step 346.
Consequently, the dose calibrator constancy edit flowchart 358 of
FIG. 39, is not described in detail. In effect, the same steps
which took place in FIG. 38 also take place in the Routine 358 of
FIG. 39. Consequently, like reference numerals are used. However,
it is to be noted at Step 934 in FIG. 38, which deals with dose
calibrator measurements, Step 934 in FIG. 93 allows for
modification of those dose calibrator values.
[0257] FIG. 40 illustrates the details of a dose accuracy edit
Routine 362, shown in FIG. 8A. In essence, this dose accuracy edit
routine allows for a correction of the dose accuracy routine, which
was shown and described in connection with FIG. 17 of the drawings.
Thus, and in this case, the dose accuracy edit routine includes the
same steps which were set forth in connection with dose accuracy
measurement of FIG. 17 and are, therefore, given like reference
numerals.
[0258] The edit input sleeves Routine 356, as shown in FIG. 8A of
the drawings, is more fully set forth in FIG. 41. As indicated
previously, the sleeves are typically formed of an effective
radioactive insulative material, and a dose or an item can be
inserted in the sleeve in order to measure decay on a rapid basis,
which might otherwise take many hours, if not days, to measure.
Inasmuch as each sleeve is different from one another, the
radioactivity insulation characteristics are different.
Consequently, it is necessary to know those characteristics of each
individual sleeve, and to be able to calibrate these sleeves from
time to time.
[0259] The routine for inputting sleeves is essentially identical
to that Routine 322 for inserting and dealing with task
information, as shown in FIG. 30. Consequently, and here again,
like reference numerals will be used for like activities, as set
forth in FIG. 30.
[0260] With regard to listing of sleeve information, the name,
description, model number, manufacturer and serial number, for
example, could be identified. In the select Step 736 of FIG. 41, a
particular sleeve is selected. In each of Steps 740, 74 and 744,
again, this routine is concerned with the inputting of sleeves.
That same information introduced into Step 734 of FIG. 41 is also
introduced into Steps 748, 750, 758 and 754 of FIG. 41. In this
way, all of the sleeves which are used in any measurement
activities are then incorporated in the system of the
invention.
[0261] The step of sleeve calibration 360, included in the menu of
FIG. 8A, is also more fully set forth in FIG. 42 of the drawings.
The actual inputting of the linearity sleeves was more fully set
forth in FIG. 18 of the drawings. This routine, therefore, closely
follows the routine on FIG. 18. As a result, the same activities
which occurred with regard to the introduction of the linear
sleeves of FIG. 18, will use the same reference numerals in this
FIG. 42, dealing with calibration. In effect, this calibration
involves a determination of the calibration of the linear decay of
the sleeves. In substance, Routine 360 of FIG. 42 closely parallels
FIG. 18, in that this routine permits the calibration of the same
sleeves which were introduced in the routine of FIG. 18.
Consequently, like reference numerals used in FIG. 18 will also be
used to represent like activities in FIG. 42.
[0262] It is to be noted that with regard to the fill calibration
factors, when calibrating these sleeves, the same color
combinations are used. Thus, where there was a fill calibration
factor 648 dealing with black/black+red/black+orange and
black+yellow/black+green/black+blue/black+purple, the same color
patterns are used in FIG. 42. With regard to input assayed activity
in the measured values, again, the same color combinations are used
that were used in Step 652 of FIG. 18. Finally, the program values
which were determined at Step 654 in FIG. 18 are also determined at
Step 654 in FIG. 42.
[0263] The primary difference between the Routine 360 of FIG. 42
and that of FIG. 18, is the fact that Step 644 in FIG. 18 provided
for a display error message. Rather, in Step 644 of FIG. 42, and
edits the information regarding the editing of the sleeves is set
forth.
[0264] The Routine 364 of FIG. 8A, dealing with the editing of the
linear sleeves, is set forth in FIG. 43 of the drawings. In this
case, the sleeves were introduced by the Routine 634, as set forth
in FIG. 18 of the drawings. Inasmuch as the Routine 364 of FIG. 43
is merely designed to correct or eliminate information introduced
with regard to introduction of the linear sleeves in FIG. 18, the
routine closely parallels that of FIG. 18. Again, reference
numerals used in connection with FIG. 18 will also be used for like
activities in FIG. 43.
[0265] In substance, the editing of the linearity sleeves in FIG.
43 essentially repeats the actual operation of FIG. 18. In this
case, there is merely an editing, as indicated. The one major
distinction which exists between the editing in FIG. 43 and the
inputting in FIG. 18, is the fact that in FIG. 43 there is no
display error message Step 644. Beyond this, the routine is
essentially identical. However, the other major distinction is the
fact that in FIG. 43 after editing, the routine will allow for
return to the software administrator, whereas in FIG. 18, the
routine allowed for return to a hot labs.
[0266] The dose calibrator geometry subroutine 366, as shown in
FIG. 8A, is more fully set forth in detail in FIG. 44 of the
drawings. In this case, the dose calibrator geometry is a quality
control procedure dealing with the accuracy of the equipment, and
not with regard to accuracy of doses per se, of a radioactive
pharmaceutical. In substance, this is actually a determination of
constancy. In accordance with this procedure, a number of values
are measured and the average of those values is taken, as a measure
of decay.
[0267] When measuring a geometry, there is a determination,
effectively, of geometric accuracy. Again, as an example, if a vial
contains a radioactive substance of, e.g., 5 millicuries, and that
vial is diluted ten fold, the amount of radioactivity should still
read 5 millicuries. Nevertheless, in some cases, the same
measurement is not obtained. Thus, a plurality of measurements are
made, as for example, three measurements, and they should be at
least within a specified percentage, e.g., 5% of an accuracy
reading. In this way, theoretically, the same constancy will be
obtained each day.
[0268] In accordance with the dose calibrator geometry routine of
Step 366, as shown in FIG. 8A, the details of this subroutine are
more fully set forth in FIG. 44 of the drawings. In this case, the
operator can elect to either proceed or not proceed with a
determination at Step 940. If there is a determination not to
proceed with this geometric determination, then the subroutine will
automatically return to the software administrator at Step 942. On
the other hand, if there is an election to proceed, the algorithm
will prompt the user to select a particular calibrator at Step 944.
After the operator has selected a particular calibrator, the dates
of previous determination of the calibrator geometry is set forth
at Step 946. From that, the operator can then select a particular
date in which a calibration was performed at Step 948.
[0269] At this point in the subroutine, the operator can select a
particular option at Step 950 of either deleting the results at
Step 952, viewing the results at Step 954, or performing no
operation at Step 956. If the operator deletes the results at Step
952, there will be a confirmation asking the operator, again, if
this information is to be deleted at Step 958. If there is a
decision to delete that particular record at Step 960, the
subroutine will return to the beginning of this subroutine 366. On
the other hand, if the operator elects to view the results, the
values thereof will be displayed on a display screen of a monitor
at Step 962. In this case, some of the information which is to be
displayed includes the volume, such as the milliliter volume, the
assayed time with respect to the assayed activity, the decay
correction, and a correction factor.
[0270] FIG. 45 shows in detail the routine for editing of manual
linearity 368. Linearity, by the manual method 670, was more fully
shown in FIG. 19 of the drawings. In this case, the subroutine
linear manual 368 enables a modification of any information
introduced in the subroutine 670. This subroutine provides for an
operator to either abandon this subroutine at Step 964 and return
to the hot labs routine at Step 960. Otherwise, the operator can
elect to proceed and the algorithm calls for the operator to enter
initials and time at Step 968. Thereafter, the operator selects a
date at Step 970. The operator can then introduce a date range
applicable for the fill calibrators at Step 972. From that, the
operator can select a particular calibrator for evaluation at Step
974.
[0271] After a calibrator has been selected at Step 974, the
linearity calibration information is then introduced at Step 976.
This would include, for example, the source, the calibration date,
the calibration time, calibration activity, and the base hours. In
this case, the base hours refers to the amount of time for a decay
in the amount of radioactivity over a given time period. In the
manual method, there is an attempt to determine whether the decay
of a source is linear over a given time period. This editing
procedure allows for correction of any error. After calibration
information is introduced, the fill linearity manual information
can be introduced at Step 978. At this point, the operator can
select the values involved or the measurement limits at Step 980.
The manual information can be modified at Step 982. If there is an
election to modify this information, it can be saved at Step 984
and where the values are then saved to the database at Step 986. If
desired, the operator can elect to print a plot at Step 988.
[0272] A decay in storage subroutine 370 is more fully illustrated
in FIGS. 46A and 46B of the drawings. In essence, this is a routine
for tracking of and maintaining of an inventory of items in
storage. The display presented by this subroutine allows for
management of all of the radioactive items which are stored, and
thereby provides for management on a long term basis. The decay in
storage subroutine is a fairly important subroutine, in that it
manages the need for retention of items which have been brought
into contact with, and contain some degree of, radioactivity. These
items typically cannot be discarded until such time as the
radioactivity has completely decayed. In short, this subroutine
provides information as to source of a radioactive item, how it was
used and, essentially, what happened to that item after this was
finished. In substance, there are essentially only two effective
ways to deal with an item containing some radioactivity, and that
is to either put the item back into a container and ship the item
to the source from which it was received. The second technique is
to put the item into a container and allow the radiation to decay
in storage for its half life.
[0273] The items which are introduced into a container for storage
so that they may decay, are recorded into the database and
displayed on the screen of a monitor in this subroutine. The user
can carefully select a particular container for storage of an item
based on the half life or the decay of radiation in that item. In
substance, the user would attempt to locate a container in which
there is no item having a longer half life than the item to be
introduced. As a simple example, one would not insert an item which
has a half life of one day into a container in which the containing
cesium having a half life of 300 years. In so doing, the items in
that container would have to be maintained for the life of the
longest decaying item, and in this example, that would be 300
years. Consequently, the user would attempt to find a container in
which the other items in that container had a decay life of about
one day.
[0274] The decay in storage subroutine allows for the operator to
either continue with the subroutine or to abandon the subroutine at
a decision Step 990. If there is a decision to stop this
subroutine, it will automatically return to the software
administrator at Step 992. If there is a decision to continue this
subroutine, then the operator is prompted list the type of storage
containers at Step 994. In this case, the operator will list the
type of storage container and whether it has been opened. More
specifically, the operator can identify the date the container was
opened, the description and the status of the container, the
operator's initials, and the date of disposal. The operator can
also be prompted to list the current maximum activity, the
container/survey results, wipe results, and the time the container
was closed.
[0275] Following the type of storage container, it is then possible
for the operator to select a particular container at Step 996. It
is also possible for the operator to select a new container at Step
998. If the operator selects a particular container at Step 996,
then in Step 1000 the operator can list any needed or desired
information. As a simple example, the operator can introduce the
product name, the current activity, the calibration date, the
calibration time, the prescription number, the product type and an
expiration date, if the item is a pharmaceutical. The operator can
also introduce or cause to be generated initials of the recipient
of this material, the date received, the time received, the
radiation level, the condition of the container, the delivery
number, the cold dose. Further, information such as a survey meter,
background meter, surface meter, placement of packages, vendor
status, residual activity, and last number disposal time.
Thereafter, the operator can then select a particular operation at
Step 1002. When selecting an operation, the operator can select
containers at Step 1004, closing a container at Step 1006, opening
of a container at Step 1008, leading a container at Step 1010, and
editing a container at Step 1012. Furthermore, there is an option
for the operator to print a container and the items contained
therein at Step 1014. If there is no operation at Step 1016, the
subroutine will automatically return to the beginning.
[0276] If there was an election to delete a container, there is a
prompt and the operator must make a decision at Step 1018, and the
operator then can either delete or not delete that container and
items therein from the storage display at Step 1020. At that point,
the subroutine can return to the dose management Routine 328 at
Step 1022. If there was an election to provide for a new container,
container information is then entered at Step 1024. This would
include, for example, a description of the item, the date and the
date it was opened. If there is a decision to edit a container at
Step 1012, then the container information which is modified can be
introduced at Step 1026. This may include, for example, the
description, the date that the container was opened, the status,
and the date the container was closed. If a new container or an
edit container step is elected, the subroutine will automatically
move to Step 1028, where the operator has the option of either
saving the end information or discarding that information. If it is
elected to save the information, the subroutine will proceed to
Step 1030 in which case, again, the description, the date that it
was opened, the status, and the date closed information is then
presented.
[0277] If there was an election to open a container at Step 1008,
that is, a container already in the inventory, a warning message
would be presented to the operator to the effect, "are you certain
that you want to return this container to inventory?" Finally, if
there is a decision to close the container at Step 1006,
information is presented as to any modification of that container.
Thus, information may include such items as returning to the
manufacturer, disposal at medical garbage, or another reason. The
date and initials of the operator can then also be introduced at
Step 1032.
[0278] If there is a decision to open a container or a decision to
close a container, the operator is then given the option to either
determine whether or not to save the status of that information at
Step 1034. If there is an election to save that information, the
information regarding modification of a container in that database
is then presented at Step 1036, and from there the information is
saved in the database at Step 1030. If there is no election to save
the information, then the subroutine will automatically move to
return to Step 1022 where this subroutine is can be started again
or terminated.
[0279] The subroutine dose patient options 380 is shown in FIG. 47,
and the schedule patient option 380, as shown in FIG. 48, are
actually options which can be introduced into the algorithm. In
essence, these are only two of the options which can be introduced
into the algorithm. The dose patient option 380 in FIG. 47 also
provides for the operator to either proceed, or quit this
particular administration option at Step 1038. If there is an
election to cease this option, the algorithm will return to the
main loop at Step 1040. If there is an election to display this
option, the subroutine proceeds to Step 1042. In this case, the
options are displayed. As an example, in the dose patient option,
the residual amount of the dose is displayed, and this may link to
additional doses after injection. There may even be a note to
remember the last test on the re-dose and the percent allowance on
an injection. Other information could also be introduced. At this
point, the operator can modify the options at Step 1044 and save
the dose patient option to the registry at Step 1046.
[0280] The schedule patient options 384 in FIG. 48 has essentially
the same steps as the dose patient options in FIG. 47.
Consequently, and here again, the common reference numerals will be
used to represent like activities. However, in the option of
scheduling the patient, at Step 1042, the sex of the patient, the
insurance information, the birth date, weight, street address, and
like information may be introduced. In addition, information can be
introduced regarding the last test made, the last scheduler who
introduced information, diagnosis and like information can also be
presented at Step 1042.
[0281] The subroutines of FIGS. 47 and 48 are identified as
options, inasmuch as this information may be required by some
states, but not by others. Consequently, the user has the option of
either not dealing with this subroutine, or otherwise, to deal with
the subroutine. In each of these options, it is possible for the
user to turn on and off the entire field. In this way, the user
does not even have to bother with those particular fields. For this
matter, other options can equally be built into or removed from the
algorithm.
[0282] An inter-date range Routine 1048, as shown in FIG. 49 of the
drawings, is an effective subroutine in allowing information to be
gathered in accordance with particular dates, such as starting and
ending dates. This routine is quite important in that it can allow
for almost any type of information introduced with respect to this
algorithm to be presented on a particular date range. Thus, for
example, if the user of the algorithm desired to determine the
quantity of a particular radioactive pharmaceutical order in a
particular time period, that information could be easily and
readily established by use of the date range and the particular
pharmaceutical for which information was sought. If cost
information were desired, that information could similarly be
gathered for a particular date range.
[0283] The date range subroutine is quite important for preparation
of governmental reports. Typically, various governmental agencies
will require information for a given date range, as for example, a
period of one month. Moreover, that month may not necessarily start
at the beginning of the month, such as at the first of the month
and end at the 30.sup.th or 31.sup.st of the month, but rather,
could have intermediate starting and ending dates in between. This
subroutine, therefor, is highly effective in allowing the gathering
of that necessary information and generation of reports, as may be
required.
[0284] The enter-date range subroutine 1048 is effective in that it
can be easily and conveniently used by the operator to obtain
information for a selected date range. Thus, if the operator was
required to produce three reports, the operator could obtain the
date range from this subroutine 1048, and then immediately generate
a report for that desired date range. The operator could follow the
same steps and obtain that same date range for another report.
[0285] In accordance with the routine of FIG. 49, after the
operator elects to enter a date range at Step 1048, the routine
will display that date range at Step 1050. Otherwise, the operator
can enter a new date range at Step 1052. At this point, the
operator then can either elect to close or open the date range
window at Step 1054. If the operator elects to close that date
range, that closes subroutine, the operator will then return to a
reports routine at Step 1056. Otherwise, the operator can then make
a decision for the date range for each selected report.
[0286] At Step 1058 the operator makes a decision to either void a
start date at Step 1060 and allow all data from the beginning of
time to be entered into the report or otherwise starts a new date
with a "so called" filter Step 1062. The operator can perform the
same decision of whether or not to enter a date range at Step 1064.
Again, the operator can enter a no beginning date or no ending
date, thereby acquiring all data for a particular report to a
present date. This would occur at Step 1066. Otherwise, the
operator can enter an end date at Step 1068. After Steps 1066 and
1068, the routine would automatically return to the calling
program, that is, the data which is to be introduced in to that
report with the starting and ending filters at Step 1070. A simple
example, a dose shipment report can be made for a certain beginning
date and a certain ending date in accordance with this retained
period.
[0287] FIG. 50 is specifically designed to provide for a dose
shipment report on all Step 1072. This dose shipment report in FIG.
50 and several of the following reports are all based on a very
similar routine. The algorithm is designed to generate this report
this Dose Shipment Report 1072, as well as the following described
reports since they are quite common and usually must be generated.
Consequently, for the convenience of the user of the algorithm,
these routines are provided for generating these separate reports.
It should be understood, however, that some of the could be deleted
as may be required and other reports could be added. Further, the
reports would similarly have the same routine and steps.
[0288] Returning to the Dose Shipment Report 1072, it can be seen
when the operator enters date ranges for this report at Step 1074.
Otherwise, the operator could literally use that Routine 1048 as
shown in FIG. 49. At this point, the operator applies a filter to a
data cable at Step 10476. Again, this filter is essentially the
same starting and ending filter dates obtained with the date range
routine 1048 as shown in FIG. 49. Thereafter, the report
information can be either introduced or presented at Step 1078. The
report will typically include a report header date, and the product
involved, the date, the calibration time, the calibration activity,
volume, and the prescription number. This data can, of course,
change as may be required.
[0289] After the report information is generated it can then be
displayed on a screen at Step 1080. Thereafter, the operator can
either elect to print or to not print the report at Step 1082. If
the operator elects to print the report it will be sent to the
printer at Step 1084 or otherwise, abandon this routine. In either
case, if the report is printed or not printed, the routine then
automatically tells the operator to quit this report at Step 1086
and, thereafter, return to the reports routine which is essentially
back to the main screen at Step 1088.
[0290] FIG. 53 provides for another important report, namely a
disposal report, 1090. This report essentially provides the same
function as the test performed test Report 1072 in FIG. 51.
Consequently, those referenced numerals used for the test performed
report will also be used in connection with this Disposal Report
1090 to identify like functions.
[0291] Inasmuch as the Disposal Report essentially has the same
function and follows the routine of the test performed report, it
is not described in any further detail herein. However, the report
information may be different. In this case, the report information
at Step 1087, at FIG. 52, would provide for report header
information, a delivery number for a particular item or material to
be disposed, the radioactive pharmaceutical involved, the disposal
activity, how the item is to be disposed, the units of that
pharmaceutical, the prescription number, the disposal date, the
initials of the operator and where the material is shipped to.
Obviously, this information can be altered at the option of the
user. Beyond this, the Steps performed in the Disposal Reports of
Routine 1090 is the same as that in the Test Performed Report
1072.
[0292] FIG. 53 illustrates a Container Return Report 1092. Again,
since the functions performed in this container report are the same
as that in the Test Performed Report 1072, the same like referenced
numerals will be used.
[0293] The only difference between these two reports, 1072 and 1092
in FIGS. 51 and 53 is the fact that the report information will be
different. In the case of the Container Return Report, the report
information at Step 1078 at FIG. 53 will include report header
information, perhaps a container number, a survey amount, and the
date returned. In addition, such other information such as a wipe
amount could be included. This would include, the amount of
radiation contained in each wipe implement such as a cotton swap or
the like. In addition, the information would include the time for
the return of each contained and perhaps a prescription number if a
radioactive pharmaceutical or remaining portion thereof is included
in the contained, the date received, the description, and the
disposal activity. This would include the manner in which the
material is disposed. Finally, the initials of the operator may
also be included.
[0294] FIGS. 54 through FIGS. 68 all represent additional reports
which may be generated by these particular routines. FIG. 54 shows
the generation of the residual inventory report, FIG. 55 shows the
generation of a patient status report 1096, FIG. 56 shows the
generation of a patient information report 1098, and FIG. 57 shows
a patient lookup report 1100. The additional reports which are
produced are the dose calibrator report 1102, a sealed source
inventory report, 1104, an area monitor report, 1106, dose
calibrator consistency report 1108, a check in meter information
report 1110, a wipe monitor report, 1112, linearity sleeve method
report, 1114, a linearity report, 1116, a geometry report, 1118, a
cost report, 1120, and a referral source report, 1122.
[0295] These reports of FIGS. 54 through 68, are fairly
self-explanatory and therefor, are neither illustrated or described
in any further detail herein. Moreover, since each of these
identified reports are based on exactly the same routine for the
test performed report of FIG. 51 and the dose shipment report of
FIG. 50, the same referenced numerals used will also be employed in
these additional reports.
[0296] The only information or material that was different in these
additional reports of 1073 starting with FIG. 51 through Search
Report 1122 of FIG. 68 is the fact that the information which is
introduced or represented is different. The information for each of
these subsequent reports will also include a report header
information. For the test performed report, information such as the
number of tests, the name of the tests, the description of the
test, the name of the product used and the identification number of
the test may all be reported. For the disposal report, the delivery
number, the radio pharmaceutical involved, the disposal date, and
the initials of the operator may all be presented. Moreover, this
report may contain information as to how the material was disposed
and/or where it may have been delivered.
[0297] The container return report are 1092 of FIG. 53 would
typically include the following information such as the container
number, a survey amount, the amount of the radiation, the date
returned, the wipe amount, the time of return of the container, the
prescription number of each item in the container, that date that
it was received, the description, the disposal activity, and the
initials of the operator therefor.
[0298] The residual inventory report relates to those items which
were contacted with radiation but which are being held by the user
until the radiation has completely decayed. This would include
product involved, the current activity, the prescription number,
the date received, the time received, and the initials of the
operator. The patient status report would provide such information
as date, the total number of patients, the unique patients, that is
patients which have special information situations, the total
patients which are finished, the total which have been canceled,
the total which have been rescheduled and the total which have been
refused of this service.
[0299] The patient information report 1098 of FIG. 56 would
normally provide information such as the name of the patient, the
date the patient was dosed, the time of dosing, the exam, the
amount of disposed units, the prescription number, and like
information. The patient look-up report would include the patient
name, the date, time, test to be examined, the status, and the
physician room notes.
[0300] The dose calibrator report 1102 of FIG. 58 would include
information such as the dose calibrator source, including the
first, second, and third source. This information would include the
date and time, the calculated decay for each of the three sources
and the deviation. The sealed source inventory report, 1104 of FIG.
59 would include information such as the product description, the
date received, the model and serial numbers, the location, the
original activity, and whether or not it has all been accounted
for.
[0301] The area monitor report of 1106 of FIG. 60 would include
information such as the group information, the name and description
of the group, the meter information, including, for example, date,
time, initials of the operator, the meter examined, the name of the
meter, the calibration date, and even the probe involved. If there
were any repeats of the monitoring, that information may also be
included in the display of 1078.
[0302] The dose calibrator consistency report of 1108 of FIG. 61
will include information such as the calibrator information which
may be the dose calibrator involved, the serial number, the percent
deviation, and a model description. The check in meter information
report 1110 of FIG. 62 would include set items such as the delivery
number, the date, the time, the survey instrument involved, the
wipe instrument involved, the serial number of each, and other
information such as the source, background, radioactivity level and
package conditions. The Wipe Meter Report 1112 of FIG. 63 may
include information such as the name and description of each of the
meters involved, the date, time, and initials of the operator
monitoring, the meter name, the meter calibration date and even the
probe, therefor.
[0303] A linearity sleeve method report 1114 of FIG. 64 would
include such items as the dose calibrator and date of starting and
the time for any calibration. This report would also include
information about the sleeves which were used, calibration factors,
the assayed activity, the assayed time, decay, and, any corrected
calculated percent deviation. The linearity manual method report
1116 of FIG. 65 would include the information about the dose
calibrator, the dates calibration started, the number of hours and
the source. This may include manual information such as assayed
activity, predicted activity, control factors, and a percent
deviation.
[0304] The geometry report 1118 of FIG. 66 would normally include
information about the dose calibrator, including the date started,
the time, the normalization, and the activity. This would further
include the initials of the user. The report would preferably
include geometric geometry information which would possibly
represent the volume, the assay time, the assay activity decay,
correction, and the correction factor.
[0305] The cost report would normally include items such as the
total product, the total cost, the number of products with the
price set, the product name for each product, the product
description, the cost per unit, and the number of units. The total
cost for the product and the percent of total units, as well as the
percent of total cost may also be presented. The referral source
report 1122 of FIG. 68 would include the referral source, the name
of the referral source, identification number, if possible, the
number of referrals and the percent of appointments.
[0306] There may also be a formula report routine 1124 as shown in
FIG. 69. In this report, the operator merely either inputs or
displays information such as information about the formulas
involved. Such information may include, for example, Adenosine 6,
Adenosine 5, pediatric dose, Dipyridamole, CPM to DPM and any decay
formula therefor. This report does not require the entry of date
ranges and also does not require any selected operation such as an
operation identified as 1076 in the test performed report and 1076
in the dose shipment report of FIG. 50. Beyond this, the routine
would be the same as those previously described routines and
particularly the routine for the dose shipment report 1072 of FIG.
50.
[0307] A sealed source inventory report 1104 is similar to the dose
shipment report 1072 of FIG. 50 except that the operator has an
initial decision to make after a selected date at Step 1126. The
operator can either quit this report and return to the reports
routine or otherwise proceed to the information to the report. The
information would include, in addition to the report header, a
product description, the date of receipt, the model and serial
number, the location, and the original activity.
[0308] The area monitor report has a routine essentially
identically to the dose shipment report routine 1072 of FIG. 50.
Again, like reference numerals will refer to like activity. This
report does not include a special decision making step which was
included in the sealed source inventory report. That information
which may be reported may include for example, group information,
the name and description of that group information, meter
information, such as the date, time, initials of the operator, the
meter involved, the name of the meter, the calibration date, and
even the probe. The dose calibrator consistency report, 1108 and
the remaining reports from the area monitor report, 1106 at FIG. 62
and the formula for the referral service report, 1122 at FIG. 68
all have essentially the same routine activity. As a result those
reference numerals in FIG. 50 will be applied to these following
reports at FIGS. 60 through 68.
[0309] That information which would be presented with the area
monitor report include dose calibrator consistency report would
include the calibrator information, the dose calibrator involved,
the serial number of that calibrator, the present deviation,
possibly calibrator results and the actual calibration of each
item.
[0310] The check in meter information Report, 1110, would then
include that information such as the delivery number, the date and
time, the survey instrument or wipe instrument involved, the serial
numbers of such instruments, the source and background the surface
activity, including radioactivity on that surface and the like.
[0311] The wipe monitor report, 1112 at FIG. 63 would essentially
include information such as the group information, the name and
description of the items in the group, the particular meter
information, the date, the time, initials of the operator, the
meter name, the meter calibration date and even the probe. The
linearity sleeve method report, 1114 at FIG. 64 would include the
dose calibrator factor, the assay activity, the assay time, the
decay correction factor, and the calculated percent of
deviation.
[0312] The linearity sleeve method report would also include that
Step 1126 for the sealed method inventory report, 1104 at FIG. 59.
On this activities in the algorithm are essentially the same. The
linearity manual method report, 1116 also included that decision
making Step 1126. Beyond this the algorithm is the same as that of
the routine dose shipment report, 1072, at FIG. 50. In this case,
the information for the report would include the dose calibrator,
the date started, the base hours, and the source. The information
may further include assay activity, predicated activity, a control
factor, and percent deviation.
[0313] A geometry report, 1118 at FIG. 66, would also include that
decision Step 1126, previously described. In addition, the
information to be presented would be essentially that information
in the linearity manual Method report except that the geometry
information including the volume assay time, assay activity, decay
correction, and correction factor.
[0314] The cost report, 1120, as shown in FIG. 67 is another report
of substantial value to management. In this case, information at
Step 1078 at FIG. 67 would include the total product involved, the
total cost, the number of products without a price set, a product
name, a product description, cost per unit, number of units, total
cost for product, and like information. The referral source report,
1122 at FIG. 68 would normally include just a referral source by
name and perhaps an identification number, the number of referrals
and the percent of appointments. The formula report, 1124 of FIG.
69 is a fairly simple routine which only includes a report of
information at Step 1130, such as, for example, dose formulas,
e.g., Adenosine 6 minute, Adenosine 5 minute, etc. The remaining
portion of the routine for the Formula Report would involve those
same activities as set forth in the Dose Shipment Report 1072, at
FIG. 50. To that extent, like reference numerals are used.
[0315] There is also a daily report routine, 1132 as shown in FIG.
70 of the drawings. This daily report, 1132, can be a fairly
important report for management and also for information reporting
purposes. In the daily report, such information which may be
displayed at Step 1134 includes certain reports to either view or
print, a dose shipment, patient information, disposal, check in
meter information, residual inventory, area monitor, and area wipe.
Other information could also be provided as may be desired.
[0316] After the information is viewed, the operator can then
provide for a selected report to generate. The information which
would be used is at step 1136 includes, for example, dose shipment,
patient information, disposal, check in meter information, residual
inventory, and area monitoring and area wipe information.
[0317] Thereafter, the routine proceeds to Step 1138, which will
display the next report screen. The operator then makes a decision
at Step 1140 as to whether or not to print the report. If the
report is to be printed, it will be sent to the printer at Step
1142. In each case, the operator will have a decision at Step 1144
to determine whether or not to complete all reports. If the
operator elects to quit the report at Step 1146, the routine will
return to the reports routine at Step 1148.
[0318] FIG. 71 illustrates the formation of data tables in the
algorithm about the present invention and which also shows a
significant feature of the invention. In this case, data is broken
down into segments so that there is not a redundancy in information
recordation. When the operator introduces information, the data
processing system, namely the computer, assigns a computer code
number to each of the segments of the data. Those segments of the
data can then be correlated. Thus, when the operator introduces
information regarding a patient and the radioactive pharmaceutical
which may be administered to that patient and the amounts, the
amounts may be categorized in one data table, the pharmaceutical in
another data table and the patient's name in a third data
table.
[0319] If age information is to be introduced with respect to a
patient, that information may be introduced into a fourth table. In
this way, if the operator wishes to recall data for a given
patient, the computer will automatically locate the internal
computer numbers given to that patient's name and locate the
radioactive pharmaceutical and the amount and the age of that
patient. In the case of another patient, the same radioactive
pharmaceutical may be administered to that other patient in perhaps
different amounts. Consequently, at very least the name of the
radioactive pharmaceutical is not duplicated in the data
system.
[0320] As a simple example of the foregoing, if a particular
radioactive pharmaceutical Myocene was introduce into the computer
it might be arbitrary assigned a code of 001 and Myoview would be
given an arbitrary code of 002. If it was desired to determine the
amount of these compounds in the inventory of the facility, the
operator can merely introduce the compound from 001 and determine
that e.g., 50 mg was available. In addition, if the scheduler's
name was required to be entered, it would not be necessary for the
schedule to introduce that information again creating a redundancy,
but rather the scheduler's name would be available under Code 010.
The dose amounts may available in another table and again the
patients name is in another table.
[0321] When it is desired to accumulate this data to determine, for
example, the amount of a product given to a patient, that data may
be present in the bottom chart of FIG. 72. Thus, in this case, the
radioactive pharmaceutical Myoview with an inventory amount of 50
ml., is to be administered to a patient by the name of Jones, in a
dose amount of 10 ml. The scheduler who arranged for that
information is identified as Smith. Thus, all information is easily
and quickly gathered and generated on a displayed screen without
necessarily causing the operator to again introduce redundant
information and without causing the need for storage of redundant
information.
[0322] Another one of the important aspects of the present
invention, as briefly described above, is the fact that a complete
screen showing a routine, for example, may be presented on the
monitor. In this way, the viewer can examine all subroutines which
must be required, otherwise, the steps which must be performed.
When the viewer then accesses any particular subroutine, the
subroutine will automatically present those steps necessary for the
operator to accomplish that subroutine. The operator performs those
steps and upon execution of a return or other keyboard push button
switch on the computer keyboard the algorithm will automatically
return to the that subroutine or to the main menu.
[0323] If the operator forgets that a certain subroutine had been
performed, that subroutine will immediately inform the operator
that the activity has been performed on that particular day. Thus,
the algorithm is essentially fool-proof in that it literally
carries the operator through every step that must be performed and
almost forces the operator to perform each such activity.
[0324] As an example of the foregoing, if the operator was to
schedule a group of patients for receiving a radioactive
pharmaceutical, the subroutine would present a screen for
scheduling the patients. Each of the patients thereafter would be
scheduled by the operator. A second screen would provide those
radioactive pharmaceuticals which might be administered. The third
screen would allow the operator to pick a particular patient who is
to receive a pharmaceutical. In the fourth screen the operator
would select the pharmaceutical for that patient. In the fifth
screen the operator may select the amount which is to be
administered and, in the sixth screen the operator would then be
required to introduce information about the pharmaceutical after
administration.
[0325] Thus, there has been illustrated and described a unique and
novel algorithm and program for performing method steps in the
handling and administration of radioactive pharmaceuticals and
which thereby fulfills all of the objects and advantages which have
been sought. It should be understood that many changes,
modifications, variations, and other uses and applications which
will become apparent to those skilled in the art after considering
the specification and the accompanying drawings. Therefore, any and
all such changes, modifications, variations, and other uses and
applications, which do not depart from the spirit and scope of the
invention are deemed to be covered by the invention.
* * * * *