Question

1. What are the MSDS and the GHS and why are they important?
2. How is a patient chart organized? Please list and briefly describe at least 5 sections a respiratory therapist might view in a patient chart.
3. Briefly define and discuss the POMR and the SOAP note format.
4. Describe a typical patient interview from start to finish.
5. Give at least two examples of how computers and computer-based applications impact the day-to-day care of the cardio-respiratory patient.
6. Describe "Telemedicine." what is it? How might it improve patient outcomes?
7. Briefly describe the use of search engines like PubMed and OVID. What are they? How do they differ from a more traditional internet search engine like "Google"?

Answer 1

1. MSDS - MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS

It is a document that contains information on the potential hazards (health, fire, reactivity & environmental) and how to work safely with the chemical product. It is an essential starting point for the development of a complete health and safety program. It also contains information on the use, storage, handlung and emergency procedures related to the hazards of the material.

GHS- GLOBALLY HARMONIZED SYSTEM OF F CLASSIFICATION & Labelling of Chemicals

It is a system for standardizing and harmonizing the classification and labelling of chemicals. It is a logical & comprehensive approach for:

• defining health, physical & environmental hazards of chemicals
• Creating classification processes that use available data on chemicals for comparison with the defined hazard criteria and
• Communicating hazard information , as well as protective measures, on labels and Safety Data Sheets.

Enhances the protection of human health and the environment by providing an internationally comprehensive system. Provide a recognised framework to develop regulations for those countries without existing systems.

2. POMR - PROBLEM ORIENTED MEDICAL RECORD

It is a comprehensive approach to recording and accessing patient medical data. Documents care by focusing on patient's problems. Promotes problem solving approach to care. Improves continuity of care and communication by keeping relevant data all in one place. Allows easy auditing of patient records. Components are:

• DATA BASE - history, physical examination & laboratory data
• COMPLETE PROBLEM LIST
• INITIAL PLANS
• DAILY PROGRESS NOTES
• FINAL PROGRESS NOTES OR DISCHARGE SUMMARY

​​​​​​​SOAP - SUBJECTIVE , OBJECTIVE, ASSESSMENT & PLAN

​​​​​​​It is an acronym representing a widely used method of documentation for healthcare providers. The purpose is to have a standard format for organising patient information

4 components are:

• SUBJECTIVE - medical history
• ​​​​​​OBJECTIVE - physical examination, & laboratory/diagnostic investigation
• ASSESSMENT - problems/initial impression
• PLANS - diagnostic work up & therapeutic Management