Performance resource profiling using a computer-based number discrimination test system

A prototype number discrimination test system (NDTS) is described. The NDTS is a computer-based medical application system designed to gather data in support of the hypothesis that fatigue and sleep deprivation adversely affect motor skills and hence clinical effectiveness in surgical resident programs. The computer system measures hand-eye coordination. A series (50) of three three-digit numbers are positioned in random locations on a typical computer monitor. The subject chooses the largest of the three as quickly as possible by using a light pen or mouse. The computer software records both the accuracy and the elapsed time for each of the selections. The test results can be analyzed locally, supplemented with additional on-call parameters, and input into a standard statistical package for follow-on correlation activities