How Technology Helps Me Provide Better Patient Care
For nurses like Glyn who work at the bedside, technology has changed the way care is delivered. Over his 20-year nursing career, he has seen the transition from handwritten notes to fully connected electronic medical records (EMRs) and tools that improve communication and the quality of care.
While much has changed in healthcare and technology has come a long way, one thing has never changed: a strong commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate care.
Glyn’s Story
I began my nursing career about 20 years ago. Back then, one of the hardest parts of the job was keeping up with patient care while also trying to remember everything and write it all down. We did have an electronic medical record (EMR), but it was nothing like Epic which we use today. Back then, nursing documentation was handwritten, and different systems didn’t always work together. Sometimes it took more than one person to read a doctor’s notes or prescription order.
Today, everything we do lives in Epic. Documentation, test results, orders and even messages with patients, family and/or other members of the care team, all in one place Providers enter orders directly into Epic, which means less confusion, fewer mistakes and faster, safer care. This level of connection is the biggest change I’ve seen over the years. Technology makes it easier than ever to communicate with the entire care team, as well as with patients and families.
One of the best results of having an EMR like Epic is that it allows patients to take a more active role in their care. Patients can complete questionnaires themselves, which we review and approve. This matches how people communicate in everyday life. Before, we would be in the patient room taking notes, then find a computer somewhere on the unit to enter that information into the system. Having computers in the room helps, but tools like Epic Rover speed things up even more, improving workflows and giving us more face-to-face time with the patient.
Rover runs on Bronson‑owned iPhones that nurses receive at the start of each shift. We carry the phone with us and use it right at the bedside. With Rover, we can access patient information, scan medications and securely message providers without leaving the room or waiting for a computer. Even if a provider is across campus, we can get a hold of them quickly and keep care moving forward. This gives us more time at the bedside with patients, which leads to better care and experiences.
While Rover supports nurses, patients are using MyChart Bedside for better communication during their stay in the hospital. MyChart Bedside runs in the MyChart app, which patients can download to their phones or tablets. They can do things like view test results, see their medications, access education materials related to their stay and send messages straight to their care team. They can also order their meals and see their schedule for the day, including rehab or nutrition counseling. Family members can also download the app to send messages and see information from home. This helps keep everyone on the same page.
Another way these tools add value is by helping us respond faster when timing is critical. For example, when lab results come back. Patients are often waiting for results, and so are we. Through MyChart Bedside, patients can see results as soon as they’re available and begin thinking through questions. At the same time, nurses see results in Rover. If a critical result comes in, we can act right away. That speed can make a huge difference in patient outcomes.
In addition to my role on the Adult Medical Unit (AMU), I’m involved in the Clinical Informatics Council, which is a part of Nursing Shared Governance. The council is responsible for looking across the hospital to find ways we can save time, improve documentation and make workflows clearer so nurses can focus more on direct patient care. It’s a collaborative group that helps ensure technology supports nurses.
Being able to work together well as a team is important in the healthcare setting. Our teams aren’t just made up of nurses. On the AMU, we work closely with patient care assistants, EVS associates, unit clerks, providers, management, etc. Everyone has their own role, but together, we’re working toward the common goal of providing our patients with the best care possible.
Even with all this improved technology, what has always remained consistent is our commitment to the patient. Everything we do is for the patient. Our goal is always to help them get better as quickly as possible so they can go home or on to rehab. Technology should support that work, not replace it or create additional barriers.
At the end of the day, this technology helps nurses document more quickly and easily so we can spend more time with patients at the bedside. This extra time with patients leads to better care and better experiences. As patients arrive sicker, and spend less time in the hospital, balancing technology and human connection is more important than ever. I’m proud to be part of a team that works so well together and stays focused on our patients with high-quality care.
