Information Systems Laboratory Operations Review 44
TERM EXPLANATION
Laboratory information system (LIS)
Hospital information system (HIS)
Interface
Unidirectional interface
Bidirectional interface
Middleware
System validation
System of hardware, software, connections, & communication protocols to handle all informa-
tional needs of lab, from intake of requests to delivery of results. Can provide patient informa-
tion, test information, collection lists, work lists, test results, financial functions, productivity/
workload monitoring, quality management, & interface with other computer systems.
Information system to handle all informational needs of hospital, both clinical & administrative.
Hardware & software that allow for electronic communication between 2 computer systems,
even if they use different programming languages. The LIS is typically interfaced to HIS &
automated analyzers.
Interface that transmits electronic information in 1 direction, e.g., a point-of-care analyzer
downloads test results to LIS.
Interface that transmits electronic information in 2 directions, e.g., the LIS downloads orders
from the HIS & uploads results to the HIS.
Interface between an analyzer and LIS. Can apply rules to automate processes, e.g., autoverifica-
tion (automatic release of results without tech review when certain criteria are met).
Documentation that LIS functions as expected. Required by regulatory agencies.
