However, like any powerful tool, SystmOne can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially for new users.
To help you navigate this system more efficiently, this article offers tips and shortcuts that will save you time and make your experience with SystmOne smoother.
1. Master Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard shortcuts are a vital time-saving tool in SystmOne. They allow you to navigate the system quickly without having to rely on your mouse. Here are some essential shortcuts:
F1 - Help: Quickly access the help menu if you’re unsure about a feature or function.
F12 - Close Window: Instantly close the active window without using the mouse.
Ctrl + P - Print: Quickly print documents or patient records.
Ctrl + C and Ctrl + V - Copy and Paste: Essential for copying and pasting text within patient notes or other documents.
Ctrl + S - Save: Save your current work or notes.
Learning and using these shortcuts can significantly reduce the time spent on repetitive tasks.
2. Customise Your Toolbar
SystmOne’s toolbar is customisable, allowing you to tailor it to your specific needs. By adding the most frequently used functions to your toolbar, you can access them with a single click, saving valuable time.
To customize your toolbar:
- Click on the Tools menu.
- Select Customise Toolbar.
- Drag and drop the functions you use most frequently into the toolbar area.
This customization will help you streamline your workflow and reduce the number of clicks needed to perform routine tasks.
3. Use Templates to Standardize Data Entry
Templates in SystmOne are a powerful feature that allows you to standardize data entry, ensuring consistency and completeness. Templates can be used for various tasks, such as entering patient notes, assessments, or care plans.
To create or use a template:
- Go to the Clinical Tree and select the relevant section (e.g., Patient Notes).
- Click on the Template icon.
- Choose from existing templates or create your own by selecting New Template.
By using templates, you can ensure that all necessary information is captured and presented in a consistent format, which is particularly useful for maintaining high standards of care.
4. Make Use of Favourites
SystmOne allows you to set up ‘Favourites’ for quick access to commonly used codes, medications, or templates. This feature can be particularly useful if you find yourself frequently using the same items.
To set up Favourites:
- Right-click on the item you want to add to your Favourites (e.g., a medication or code).
- Select Add to Favourites from the menu.
- Access your Favourites through the Favourites tab in the relevant section.
This feature saves time by reducing the need to search for frequently used items, allowing you to focus more on patient care.
5. Utilise the Patient Summary
The Patient Summary screen is a valuable tool for gaining a quick overview of a patient’s health status. It displays key information such as allergies, current medications, recent consultations, and test results.
To access the Patient Summary:
- Open a patient’s record.
- Click on the Summary tab.
This screen is particularly useful during consultations, as it provides a concise view of the patient’s history, enabling you to make informed decisions quickly.
6. Set Up Automatic Task Alerts
In a busy clinical environment, it’s easy to forget about follow-up tasks or appointments. SystmOne’s automatic task alerts can help you stay on top of these by providing reminders.
To set up task alerts:
- Go to the Tasks section.
- Select New Task and fill in the relevant details (e.g., patient name, task description).
- Set a due date and time for the alert.
Once set up, SystmOne will automatically remind you of the task, ensuring that nothing slips through the cracks.
7. Use the Search Function Efficiently
SystmOne’s search function is a powerful tool that allows you to find patient records, specific data entries, or documents quickly.
However, to get the most out of this feature, it’s essential to use it effectively:
Search by NHS Number: This is the most accurate way to find a patient’s record, as the NHS number is unique to each individual.
Use Filters: When searching for data entries or documents, use filters to narrow down your results. For example, you can filter by date range, document type, or author.
By mastering the search function, you can significantly reduce the time spent looking for information within the system.
8. Take Advantage of SystmOne Training Resources
SystmOne offers a wealth of training resources that can help you become more proficient in using the system. These resources include online tutorials, user manuals, and webinars.
To access these resources:
- Click on the Help menu within SystmOne.
- Select Training Resources.
Regularly updating your skills through these resources can help you stay up-to-date with new features and best practices, ultimately improving your efficiency.
9. Regularly Update Patient Records
Keeping patient records up to date is crucial for providing high-quality care. SystmOne makes it easy to update records during or after a consultation.
However, it’s important to:
Enter Information Promptly: Update records as soon as possible after a patient interaction to ensure accuracy.
Use Structured Data: Whenever possible, use structured data fields rather than free text. This ensures that information is easily searchable and can be used for reporting purposes.
By maintaining accurate and up-to-date records, you can ensure continuity of care and reduce the risk of errors.
10. Collaborate Effectively with Colleagues
SystmOne’s collaborative features allow healthcare teams to work together more effectively. For instance, you can share patient records, task lists, and messages with colleagues.
To collaborate effectively:
Use Task Assignments: Assign tasks to specific team members and track their progress through the Tasks section.
Share Messages: Use the internal messaging system to communicate with colleagues about patient care or administrative tasks.
Effective collaboration within SystmOne can improve patient outcomes and ensure that all team members are on the same page.
By mastering keyboard shortcuts, customising your toolbar, using templates, and taking advantage of features like Favourites and automatic task alerts, you can significantly improve your efficiency and reduce the time spent on administrative tasks.
Regularly updating patient records and collaborating effectively with colleagues will also enhance the quality of care you provide.
Whether you are new to SystmOne or have been using it for years, these tips and shortcuts can help you make the most of the system, allowing you to focus on what matters most —providing excellent patient care.