Journal of Radiology Nursing
Volume 25, Issue 3 , Pages 69-74, September 2006

Introduction to Picture Archive and Communication Systems

  • Maureen N. Hood, MS, RN

      Affiliations

    • Corresponding Author InformationAddress reprint requests to Maureen N. Hood, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD 20814-4799.
    • ,
  • Hugh Scott, MS

Maureen N. Hood, MS, RN, is an Assistant Professor of Radiology and Radiological Sciences at Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, School of Medicine, where she teaches medical and graduate school students. Ms. Hood has a master's degree in Nursing Informatics from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, School of Nursing, and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in nursing from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Graduate School of Nursing. Hugh Bradford Scott, RN-C, MS, is the Head of PACS Services for the Department of Radiology at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, MD. Mr. Scott has a master's degree in Informatics from Hampton University in Hampton, VA. Mr. Scott is also a retired LCDR of the U.S. Navy Nurse Corps

Abstract 

Picture Archive and Communication Systems (PACS) are comprehensive management systems for diagnostic imaging studies that are increasingly used in hospitals and health care systems. It is essential for PACS to be an integrated part of the total hospital electronic information system in order to be maximally effective. The main objective of any new information system in health care is to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of health care. Although the initial implementation of PACS is costly, the ability for care providers to have faster access to diagnostic imaging information allows care to be delivered more expediently, which improves the overall quality of care patients receive. Nurses will have the ability to see images, rather than just reports about imaging studies. An electronic system for diagnostic imaging procedures and management provides nurses with unique opportunities to improve their involvement in clinical discussions, their ability to provide quality patient care, and potential to further nursing research.

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 The opinions or assertions contained herein are the private views of the authors and are not to be construed as official or reflecting the views of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences or the Department of Defense.

PII: S1546-0843(06)00073-3

doi:10.1016/j.jradnu.2006.06.003

Journal of Radiology Nursing
Volume 25, Issue 3 , Pages 69-74, September 2006

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