Given the high prevalence of depression, the relationship of depression with poor diabetic self-care and medication adherence, and the increased cost of treatment for patients with depression among individuals with type 2 diabetes, assessment of depression is crucial. Further research is needed to establish effective treatment of depression and its effect on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Purpose
To describe the lived experience of patients communicating with their nurse practitioners and physicians while using paper health records (PHRs) and electronic health records (EHRs) in the examination rooms. The significance of the study lies in the salience of communication between the patient and provider in promoting optimal clinical outcomes and the highest level of patient satisfaction.
Data sources
The study used a qualitative, phenomenological design. Audio‐taped focus group interviews were conducted with 21 patients from a diabetes clinic in Baltimore, Maryland. Patients had visits with the provider before and after implementation of EHRs in the clinic.
Conclusions
The four themes that emerged from the three focus groups included communication issues, patient preferences for electronic records, safety and security concerns, and transition problems with implementation of EHRs.
Implications for practice
Potential benefits for nurse practitioners implementing the recommendations in this study include enhanced communication between patients and providers while using EHRs, increased patient satisfaction, higher levels of nurse practitioner and physician satisfaction, and avoidance of communication issues during implementation of EHR systems.
Nurse practitioners need to be cognizant of the risks for diabetes and should follow clinical practice recommendations for routine screening and implementing preventive strategies for women who experience GDM. Office reminder systems such as standardized documentation flow sheets and electronic medical records may assist with provider adherence to practice recommendations. Strict postpartum screening and management may help reduce risks for developing diabetes in this vulnerable population.
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