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

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Patient Experience
• Clinical Communication

Background:

• Increasing adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) in healthcare settings.
• Need for effective strategies to manage patient perceptions of technology during care.
• Potential impact of bedside computers on patient-clinician interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an educational tool to enhance clinician awareness of patient perceptions during EHR use.
• To improve the integration of technology into patient care without compromising the patient-clinician relationship.
• To address concerns regarding the impact of bedside computers on patient interactions.

Main Methods:

• Development of the "Patient First" educational sensitivity tool.
• Creation of a sensitivity presentation for clinicians.
• Formation of a committee to address concerns about bedside computer use.
• Focus on enhancing simultaneous interactions between clinicians, patients, and computers.

Main Results:

• The Patient First tool highlights potential patient thoughts and concerns.
• It offers alternative solutions for clinicians to address patient perceptions.
• The sensitivity presentation guides clinicians to be mindful of patient views.
• Aimed to improve clinician awareness in a midsize community hospital.

Conclusions:

• The Patient First tool can help clinicians better manage patient perceptions during EHR implementation.
• Educating clinicians on patient sensitivity is crucial for successful technology integration.
• This approach supports maintaining positive patient-clinician interactions amidst technological advancements.