Patient first: a patient sensitivity tool for an electronic health record implementation

Throughout the country, use of electronic health records continues to increase. For successful implementation of an electronic health record system in an acute care setting, it is vital to educate and address the patient's perceptions about the use of technology when caring for the patient. This article describes the development of an educational sensitivity tool designed to enhance clinicians' simultaneous interactions with patients and computers in a midsize community hospital. The Patient First tool brings attention to the thoughts and perceptions a patient may have in various situations, promoting alternative solutions for staff to properly address the patient's concerns. A committee was developed to address concerns regarding the impact a computer at the bedside would have on patient and clinician interactions. One primary educational tool developed was the Patient First sensitivity presentation that cautioned and guided clinicians to be aware of patient perceptions.