From what I know about electronic health records, I thought they were something used only within one specific hospital to keep track of patient data and allow medical staff to see trends in information. I believed that for repeat patients, the information would stay in the database so upon a new admission their history and allergies would already be documented. Based off of what I knew about the health records and HIPAA, I assumed that there was no data sharing from facility to facility unless a patient was being transferred. I also assumed that what information was put in the electronic health record could not be easily shared or access without extensive written permission and patient consent so that the health record could not be accessed by the wrong person.
HIE was a service that I had never heard of until this presentation. I did not know that there was a whole system of health information sharing technology that allows medical teams to see information on their patients even if they are not in the same facility. The data shared helps improve communication, allows for better care planning, ensures extensive and comprehensive information for the care team, improves quality and health outcomes, and helps assist in providing targeted care for patients with chronic ailments and admissions to the hospital. I was also surprised by the number of people who can access this system; from RNs to physicians, pharmacists, LTC staff, and more. HIE has had a huge influence on nursing, because it helps the nurse to empower their patients, attain higher levels of patient health, assess patient needs quicker and more efficiently, and improves patient quality of life. This system also allows the nurse to promote health and wellbeing, reduce patient risks, prevent unnecessary repeat tests, enhance follow up care, and more. From this new knowledge of EHRs and HIEs, I appreciate the reasoning behind accurate charting more. What I put in the chart as a nurse does not just affect what the other medical staff at my hospital see, but it could change a patient outcome down the road. This information is used to help primary providers keep track of the status of their patients if they are admitted for an exacerbation, etc. I can understand the need for so much charting while on shift, as well as the importance now. I will remember the benefits for the patients and various medical teams involved when taking care of my patient and charting their progress!
