Ac wireless packet data communication network that enables wireless communication among a plurality of users within a work environment having one or more regions. The network includes a plurality of database command servers each controlling access to one of a plurality of databases. A plurality of communication servers (each being located in a different region of the work environment) are interfaced by way of a communication bus. A plurality of wireless handheld bar code driven data terminals are interfaced with the communication servers by way of a plurality of wireless communication channels. Each wireless handheld bar code driven data terminal has a graphical user interface including a touch-sensitive display device, an integral bar code symbol reader, and a wireless communication interface device for enabling wireless data packet communication between the wireless handheld bar code driven data terminal and one communication server. In addition, the network preferably includes a master database for maintaining a backup copy of each database, and a master information server for controlling access to the master database and supporting communication with the plurality of communication servers. A communication network is preferably realized within the work environment, for enabling data packet communication between wireless handheld bar code driven data terminals and/or data packet communication between the master information server and the plurality of communication servers. The work environment may be located within one of a healthcare facility, retail environment, and manufacturing environment.