Module 4, Response to Another Student's Post

Response to "Module 4 Part 2 Nursing Data Quality" post by Sue V. at http://suevongsikeo.blogspot.com

The point you mentioned about the Hebda reading that states that if staff are proficient in the input device used, then there are less data collection and entry errors is absolutely true. If one doesn't know how to use a computer charting system, for example, then it is not only possible, but likely, that an error will occur. This is negative for all involved, because not only is the computer chart part of the permanent record of the patient, but that information is generally used by other healthcare providers caring for the patient, such as other nurses, doctors, and ancillary staff. If the information is entered incorrectly, decisions could be made incorrectly. If the happens because the staff doesn't know how to use the system correctly, the error is absolutely inexcusable. Where I work, there are required proficiencies and classes that staff have to complete in  order to learn and understand how to correctly use the computer charting system. Even with the classes, errors still occur, however, I can't imagine what might happen if the classes weren't required. Sometimes one might know how to use the basics of a computer charting program, but not understand how to use certain additional features of the program that might help to better the patient care, such as adding patient-specific interventions to a computer charting care plan. Education should be mandatory for all staff where input devices are utilized to avoid these types of errors.