Defining the message

Use the Definition of Message pane to modify existing or define new messages. Modify a message layout by editing, deleting, or adding new segments to the message definition.

Note: The MSH segment cannot be removed from a message definition. MSH is required and must be the first segment in the list. When a message is created, it is automatically added as the first segment.
  1. Click the message name in the Defined Messages pane. The selected message’s segments display in the Definition of the Selected Message pane.
  2. Designate where to place the new segments by clicking the Add/Paste New Segments arrow and making a selection.
    For example, to add a segment or segments after or before a particular segment on the list, first click the segment where the insertion is located. Then, click After Selected Segment(s) or Before Selected Segment(s).
  3. Click the Add tool that is located below the Definition list. This opens the Add Segment to Message dialog box.
    1. Click List and double-click the segment to add.
    2. Click OK to place the segment on the list at the location that was chosen under Add/Paste New Segments.
  4. If necessary, then use the editing tools by clicking the appropriate tool that is located below the Definition of the Selected Message panel.
  5. Specify if the message’s segments are optional or repeating by selecting a single segment or a segment group:
    • Optional specifies the segment’s inclusion is optional.
    • Repeats specifies the segment is repeating.
    • Shift-click to select a group of segments from the current message definition.