Preparing for Electronic Medical Record Implementation: Carolina Care Communication in an Electronic Environment

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Patient Experience
• Nursing Informatics

Background:

• The implementation of new electronic medical record (EMR) systems can disrupt established patient care workflows and negatively impact patient experience.
• Healthcare organizations must proactively address potential adverse effects on patient satisfaction and engagement during technological transitions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a successful strategy for mitigating the negative effects of a new electronic medical record on patient experience.
• To detail the application of the Carolina Care model in managing EMR implementation challenges.
• To highlight the importance of nurse-patient communication within an electronic environment.

Main Methods:

• The Carolina Care model, rooted in caring theory, was utilized to structure the intervention.
• A program titled "Communication in an Electronic Environment" was developed.
• Seven distinct focus areas were integrated into the program, emphasizing nurse-patient communication strategies.

Main Results:

• The integrated program effectively mitigated potential negative impacts of the new EMR on patient experience.
• The Carolina Care model provided a robust framework for facilitating the intervention.
• Enhanced nurse-patient communication strategies were successfully implemented within the electronic setting.

Conclusions:

• A structured, model-driven approach can successfully manage the patient experience during EMR implementation.
• Prioritizing nurse-patient communication is crucial for maintaining positive patient experiences in the digital healthcare landscape.
• The Carolina Care model offers a practical framework for actualizing caring theory in technology-rich healthcare settings.