need help creating the database

I am trying to create a database to capture data fields for a list of patients. There are three separate locations that will need to access the database to enter their respective data on the same group of patients. I am very new to Access and have tried to learn as I go, but I am having a problem having the records update each other. I also need to calculate the elapsed time between field entries.
Can anyone help me get started in the right direction?

Hi mariana57

Your question on database design for your application sounds like a master and three separate databases. First question, are you setting these up as "stand alone applications" in each location or are you going to use a server for the backend with the tables and the remote locations with the front end containing forms and queries.

Question on time calculations...between field entries or record entries? Think in terms of a spreadsheet...the columns would represent the fields, the rows would represent the records.

lwells

See answers above.

Hi mariana57

Whether you use a shared network drive or an sql server depends on your particular environment but can be set up either way once you have your database built and running.

As far as database design, and I hope I am not giving you some bad advice here, (not knowing all the fields that are required) it sounds like you would need a patient table that would show all the basic information about the patient. Then three other tables, one for each location to add the specific data for what they do. These tables will be linked to the patient table. Queries based on these tables would be the record source for your forms that you would use to enter the data in. Each location could have it's own form specific form for what they do, but will always match with a specific ID of a patient. Calculations can be done with these same queries, or using a calculated control on the form. I know that this all sounds a little vague, but the idea is to build your tables with the one to many relationship...that is one patient would or could be administered medication multiple times over the course of several days in just one location. I hope this makes sense to you.

lwells

[QUOTE=lwells]Hi mariana57

Whether you use a shared network drive or an sql server depends on your particular environment but can be set up either way once you have your database built and running.

As far as database design, and I hope I am not giving you some bad advice here, (not knowing all the fields that are required) it sounds like you would need a patient table that would show all the basic information about the patient. Then three other tables, one for each location to add the specific data for what they do. These tables will be linked to the patient table. Queries based on these tables would be the record source for your forms that you would use to enter the data in. Each location could have it's own form specific form for what they do, but will always match with a specific ID of a patient. Calculations can be done with these same queries, or using a calculated control on the form. I know that this all sounds a little vague, but the idea is to build your tables with the one to many relationship...that is one patient would or could be administered medication multiple times over the course of several days in just one location. I hope this makes sense to you.

Yes, it does make sense. I will try it. I may write back when I get to the calculations but you've given me some sound advice for the foundation. Thanks
Mariana

I have completed my database but have come across an issue. I was editing the switchboard manager and got a VB error. When I went to the VB Editor I deleted a line and now when the database opens it flashes the switchboard manager and locks up. I can't even get to the main page with the tables and forms. What can I do? Please Help!!

Never mind about the lock out issue. I found the answer on this forum. I do still need help with a couple of things. How do I make a field type to accept blood pressure? The entry would follow a 999/999 format. When I put this into the properties, it enters it this way but after filing the slash disappears.
I also need to know how to calculate elapsed time between two fields. I am trying to capture the length of time from a start date, start time to a another time field. Any ideas?
You help is very much appreciated.
Thank you
Mariana