Nr361 Week 7: Use of Personal Communication Devices in Patient Care Settings
Nr361 Week 7: Use. This week’s graded discussion topic relates to the following Course Outcome (CO).
- CO6 Discuss the principles of data integrity, professional ethics, and legal requirements related to data security, regulatory requirements, confidentiality, and client’s right to privacy. (PO 6)
This week, we will discuss personal communication devices and their use in healthcare. As we focus on this topic, please address the questions below in the discussion.
- How can the use of the nurse’s personal communication device(s) impact patient care positively and/or negatively?
- What are the ethical and legal implications?
- What does the professional literature say about how communication devices can support safe nursing practice?
Nr361 Week 7: Use Answer
In the wake of rapid technological advancements, personal communication devices like smartphones and tablet computers have become pervasive tools among registered nurses in hospital settings. Examining the multifaceted impact of these devices on patient care, as explored by Koivunen, Niemi, and Hupli (2015), reveals a dichotomy of positive and negative outcomes.
On the positive front, the integration of personal communication devices in the workplace emerges as a facilitator for improved coordination among healthcare practitioners, leading to enhanced patient care outcomes. The seamless communication channels established among the healthcare team contribute significantly to this positive impact (Hebda & Czar, 2013). Moreover, the use of such devices is associated with a reduction in stress levels among nurses, fostering heightened productivity.
However, it is essential to acknowledge the existence of potential drawbacks to the widespread adoption of personal communication devices in healthcare settings. These negative aspects demand careful consideration to strike a balance between the advantages and challenges associated with their use, optimizing the overall impact on patient care.
References:
Koivunen, M., Niemi, A., & Hupli, M. (2015). The usefulness of mobile devices as communication tools in the network of nurse on-call work. International Journal of Medical Informatics, 84(10), 799-806.
Hebda, T., & Czar, P. (2013). Handbook of informatics for nurses and healthcare professionals. Pearson.
