InfoPath and Forms
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What does InfoPath do?
Microsoft InfoPath® is used by the FormEntry Module as a way for implementers to both design and render forms without having to be a programmer. Using the FormEntry module, one can download a form schema as an InfoPath XSN file, open that file in design mode, and design the form in a WYSIWYG mode (much like editing a page in a Word Processor). The XSN can then be uploaded back into OpenMRS and used to collect data for patients.
Elements of OpenMRS FormEntry InfoPath Forms
The majority of FormEntry forms share a common structure with the following sections:
- PATIENT
Contains demographic information about the patient. - ENCOUNTER
Contains information specific to the encounter (visit) — e.g., the date of the visit - OBS
This section contains all observational data. Typically, you would be working within this section, adding any new observations that you want to record through the form. - PROBLEM LIST
Contains fields used to add or remove diagnoses from the patient's diagnosis list.
How to use an existing OpenMRS form
Use the "Forms" tab within the patient dashboard. The FormEntry module must be installed.
How data is submitted to the server
InfoPath submits information much like a web page does, submitting data directly back to the OpenMRS server.
How to create new forms
Under the administration section of OpenMRS, you'll see a "Manage Forms" option. Within the Manage Forms screen, you can create new forms and edit existing forms. To create a new form, select an existing form in the drop down selector and click the "Duplicate Form" button. If you want a new (blank) form, then duplicate the "Basic Form" and delete any of the content you do not need when in design mode.
Once you've created the form, you can use the "Design Schema" page to add new observations to the OBS section. Once all of the necessary observations have been added to the schema, click on the "Download XSN" and save the XSN file to your desktop. Right-click on the XSN file and select "Design" to enter InfoPath's design mode. You'll find the list of observations available under the "Data Controls" section on the right. Drag items from the list of data controls onto the page. Typically, you would drag over the value and/or the date for an observation. Save your changes, overwriting the same file you downloaded. Back in OpenMRS, click on "Upload an XSN" to upload your form (selecting the XSN you were editing).