iPAQ Used In the Field For Chemical Analysis

[Ed Hansberry]

<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2003/TECH/04/01/hln.wired.war/index.html">http://www.cnn.com/2003/TECH/04/01/hln.wired.war/index.html</a><br /><br />"The ChemBio Decision Aid software runs on Pocket PC-powered handhelds -- in this case, a Compaq iPaq. Should a first responder arriving on the scene of an emergency suspect there's evidence of a chemical attack, he or she could diagnose a person's symptoms using the software."<br /><br />The current Pocket PC of choice for this task is the iPAQ and is already in pilot testing in Atlanta. The device includes a wireless modem and GPS hardware.

[WyattEarp]

This is an excellent tool for any non-EMS personnel who are on the scene first. It could also be a good tool for any EMS or a specialized unit who may have to quartantine and area. Since if there is some kind of biochem hazard, you may not be able to use the standard reporting forms (pen & paper, how 20th Century we still are :D ). With a properly protected PPC the patients important information could be entered on scene and retieved later for reports or even sent wirelessly to another location for analysis so a special unit knows what they need to do before arriving.

Being an PO/EMT I know first hand that having as much information as possible before you arrive at a scene is the most important tool you could have. Hope it lives up to it's expectations.