Unmet informatics needs of nurses regarding the use of personal smartphones in the workplace

Abstract

Aims This study aimed to investigate the differences in practices, policies, and perceptions of nurses regarding work‐related utilization of smartphones in acute‐care settings. Background Mobile devices utilizing emerging technology are widely used in acute‐care settings; however, concerns such as potential distraction, improper use, and negative impact on the nursing image in clinical practice remain valid. Methods Nurse managers (n = 8) and nurses (n = 181) were enrolled from eight academic tertiary hospitals that have comprehensive electronic medical record systems and mobile versions. Between October 2018 and February 2019, participants completed a questionnaire designed to explore their use of smartphones. The reporting guide for self‐administered surveys of clinicians was applied. Results Approximately 80% of nurses carried personal smartphones while working, with 70% using their devices for work. The prevalence of work‐related smartphone use ranged from 3% to 43% by functionality, which was lower than that estimated by managers. Frequent uses included taking pictures/videos and internet browsing. Nurses were more positive than managers about the benefits of smartphone use and less burdened by related concerns. Novice and junior nurses were more optimistic than senior nurses. Only one hospital had a policy on nurses’ use of personal devices at work. Conclusion Two unmet needs in the current clinical information system were identified: information supporting task‐related knowledge at the bedside and security of data capture and communication. Implication for nursing policy The unintended perception gaps between nurses and managers regarding work‐related smartphone use can be closed by nursing leadership. Unmet nursing informatics, particularly for information‐seeking purposes, can be addressed in the context of quality assurance. Nurse leaders can advocate secure and proper use of smartphones in clinical practice.

Personal digital technology use among practicing Registered Nurses and Registered Practical Nurses

“…These findings are consistent with Korean nurses' reported use of their personal digital devices within acute care. 20 Researchers reported that personal smartphone use among acute care Korean nurses was common and frequently used for pragmatic reasons similarly reported in this study. Korean nurses also used their smartphones to capture photos of patient data and to seek on-line information.…”

“…Enhanced and efficient communication among the healthcare team has the potential to contribute to improved patient care and safety yet at the same time may challenge patient information safety in terms of breaches to information privacy and confidentially. 20,29 Opportunities for future research exist to investigate RN and RPN use of personal devices for communication among the broader healthcare team and to understand how patient information safety is being addressed.…”

“…Findings from this study are consistent with the use of smartphones among acute care nurses who also highlighted the use of their personal smartphones for professional development and education, to access drug references, as a drug calculator and to communicate with other members of the healthcare team. 4,5,20 The prevalence of personal device use to support clinical practices (looking up tests, symptoms, procedures, and medication administration) highlights RNs’ and RPNs’ appreciation of portable, readily accessible, digital technologies in support of patient care that they are already comfortable and familiar with.…”

“…Convenience and efficiency in patient care practice was similarly cited as reasons for smartphone use among acute care Korean nurses. 20 The expectation of evidence-informed patient care practices highlights the importance of access to pertinent health-related resources among RNs and RPNs. Findings from this study are consistent with the use of smartphones among acute care nurses who also highlighted the use of their personal smartphones for professional development and education, to access drug references, as a drug calculator and to communicate with other members of the healthcare team.…”

“…Convenience and efficiency in patient care practice was similarly cited as reasons for smartphone use among acute care Korean nurses. 20…”