Abstract: An information system for use, at least, in the healthcare field which includes an electronically accessible data record and a hand-held stationary device which reads an invisible printed code on a substrate, is uploaded with subject-specific information, and can further upload subject-specific information into the data record. The hand-held device at least includes an optical reader capable of reading the selected printed code; a non-volatile memory; a controller; and an audio speaker. Also disclosed is a method of maintaining real-time information regarding a patient in a healthcare: facility using a patient identification bracelet with a device having an optical reader capable of reading a selected one of the one or more printed codes on the patient identification bracelet and capable of providing humanly perceptible feedback.

Abstract: An information system for use in information management for musical and theatrical entertainment comprising an electronically-accessible data record. The information system includes a performance element; a substrate having thereon one or more printed codes practically imperceptible to a human being; and a device having an optical reader capable of reading a selected one of the one or more printed codes on the substrate, non-volatile memory and a controller, the device further having means for providing humanly perceptible feedback, the non-volatile memory storing the performance element.