Computerized documentation and community health nursing students

Abstract

Background/Objective: Proficiency in computerized documentation systems is an essential element of most areas of nursing practice today. Community health is one example of an area of nursing practice where computerized documentation systems help in the provision of high quality care. Nursing students must learn the basic principles of and begin to participate in the practices of computerized nursing documentation. It is, therefore, the responsibility of nursing faculty to promote student involvement in this important process.

Methods: Two different faculty experiences with students participating in computerized nursing documentation were described using different electronic systems, a notebook computer system and a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) system.

Results/Conclusions: After reviewing the results of this descriptive experience, it is recommended that before students participate in computerized documentation, they receive written instructions. Sample charts, practice under direct faculty and staff guidance, and standardizing the learning experience are imperative. Educating the student in a technological environment is no longer optional for nurse faculty as the accurate documentation, transmission and management of data assures that the best practices are maintained, the proper billing of visits can be ensured, and the communication between the nursing student and community health nurses, as well as all members of the multi-disciplinary team is fostered.