Evaluation of an innovative communication technology in an acute care setting

Wireless technology in healthcare has been associated with communication-related improvements in workflow; however, there are barriers to adoption. The purpose of this study was to assess perceptions and attitudes of staff toward the use of a wireless communication device (Vocera, Vocera Communications, Inc., San Jose, CA) and to compare communication patterns before and after implementation. A pretest-posttest quasi-experimental design and the Theory of Planned Behavior were used. Attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived control explained 25% of the variation in behavioral intent before and 45% of the variation in behavioral intent after Vocera implementation. The time for key communication activities was reduced by 25% overall. On average, each nurse engaged in these activities 16.2 times a day before Vocera and 11.6 times a day with Vocera. This study provides evidence that introduction of novel communication technology must account for user attitudes before implementation. Vocera improved "hand-off" communication, was perceived to be of benefit, and has the potential to improve patient safety and work environments. This may also translate to reduction in healthcare resources.