Electronic health record ( EHR) data

How can electronic health record ( EHR) data be used to improve safety and health outcomes on your unit?
Of the data you collect from patient admission to discharge, what percentage is used to guide nursing care?

Full Answer Section
The percentage of data collected from patient admission to discharge that is used to guide nursing care varies depending on the specific unit and the type of data that is collected. However, in general, a significant amount of data is used to guide nursing care. For example, data on patient vital signs, lab results, and medications is often used to assess patient status and to develop a plan of care. Data on patient history and preferences is also often used to guide nursing care. Here are some specific examples of how EHR data is used to guide nursing care:
  • Vital signs: Nurses use data on patient vital signs to assess patient status and to identify patients who are at risk for complications. For example, if a patient's blood pressure is elevated, the nurse may notify the provider so that they can intervene to prevent a hypertensive crisis.
  • Lab results: Nurses use data on lab results to assess patient status and to monitor the effectiveness of treatment. For example, if a patient's white blood cell count is elevated, the nurse may notify the provider so that they can investigate the cause of the infection.
  • Medications: Nurses use data on medications to ensure that patients are taking the correct medications at the correct doses. They also use this data to monitor for potential drug interactions and to identify patients who are at risk for adverse drug reactions.
  • Patient history: Nurses use data on patient history to identify patients who are at risk for certain complications. For example, if a patient has a history of falls, the nurse may take extra precautions to prevent them from falling while they are in the hospital.
  • Patient preferences: Nurses use data on patient preferences to ensure that patients receive care that is tailored to their individual needs. For example, if a patient prefers to receive pain medication through a patch, the nurse will make sure that they receive the medication in the way that they prefer.
Overall, EHR data can be a valuable tool for improving safety and health outcomes on a unit. By using this data to guide nursing care, nurses can help to ensure that patients receive the highest quality of care.
Sample Answer EHR data can be used to improve safety and health outcomes on a unit in a number of ways, including:
  • Reducing medication errors. EHRs can automatically check for potential medication interactions and alert providers if a patient is prescribed a medication they are allergic to. This can help to prevent serious adverse events.
  • Improving patient monitoring. EHRs can be used to track patient vital signs, lab results, and other important data. This information can be used to identify patients who are at risk for complications and to intervene early to prevent them.
  • Enhancing communication between providers. EHRs can make it easier for providers to share patient information, which can help to improve the coordination of care. This can lead to better outcomes for patients.
  • Providing real-time feedback to providers. EHRs can be used to provide providers with real-time feedback on their performance. This feedback can help providers to identify areas where they can improve their care and to make changes that will lead to better outcomes for patients.