Charting the Course: A Study of Nurses' Satisfaction With EHRs Amid the Pandemic

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Health Informatics
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Electronic Health Records (EHRs) offer benefits but present documentation burdens.
• The COVID-19 pandemic intensified challenges with EHR usability and clinician well-being.
• Nurse satisfaction with EHRs is a critical factor in healthcare quality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on nurses' Electronic Health Record (EHR) experiences in Michigan.
• To identify factors influencing nurse satisfaction with EHRs during the pandemic.
• To provide recommendations for mitigating EHR-related burdens during health crises.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods exploratory descriptive analysis was employed.
• A cross-sectional survey was administered to a random sample of 551 Michigan nurses in 2021.
• Open-ended questions explored nurses' EHR experiences and pandemic-related changes.

Main Results:

• Nurses reported significant challenges with their EHR experience during the COVID-19 crisis.
• EHR maturity and Magnet status were key determinants of nurse satisfaction.
• Qualitative themes highlighted stress, frustration, and a need for system-level support.

Conclusions:

• The pandemic amplified existing EHR usability issues, negatively impacting nurses.
• Improving organizational culture, leadership, and utilizing compassionomics can reduce burden.
• Policy considerations are needed to address moral distress stemming from EHR dissatisfaction and inadequate support.