The use of mobile computational technology in the nursing process: a new challenge for Brazilian nurses

The purpose of this study was to analyze the use a hand-mobile device with integrated wireless network interface to help nurses document the nursing process. The system is structured in five modules allowing the nurses to access and document data related to vital signals, hydroelectrolytic balance, assessment and nursing prescription at the point-of-care with transmission of data in real time. The results demonstrated that the mobile computer technology provided mobility for nurses and facilitated communication and documentation of care. In addition, real time documentation proved to be more efficient than a manual documentation system.