Electronic health records (EHRs) are being instituted at Pleasant Valley Hospital. Some of the staff on Unit 4 complain to the manager that acquiring the technologic skills required is too time consuming. They question its value in patient care

Question

The manager responds that: a. The use of technology is inevitable in our technologically oriented society.
b. The hospital is no longer able to find the space to accommodate paper record keeping.
c. The initiative is being driven by decision makers higher up in the hierarchy and there is no choice.
d. EHRs will increase effectiveness of care by enhancing coordination and improving patient outcomes.

Answer 1

D
As technology improves, informatics must be integrated with budget and personnel as a critical resource element. Basing practice on evidence-based care can assist in making solid decisions about resources and in leading and encouraging staff toward positive changes in patient out-comes. EHRs, for example, are expected to enhance coordination of care, improve health out-comes, and increase accuracy of diagnoses.