NURS FPX 6412 Assessment 3 Manuscript for Publication

Name

Capella University

NURS-FPX 6412 Analysis of Clinical Information Systems and Application to Nursing Practice

Prof. Name

Date

Manuscript for Publication

Epic Systems is a sophisticated web-based platform that empowers healthcare professionals to securely access patient health records from any location with an internet connection. By centralizing patient data within a robust database, Epic Systems enables authorized users, including physicians, nurses, and administrative staff, to efficiently retrieve and manage information (Chishtie et al., 2023). This assessment evaluates the impact and effectiveness of Epic Systems in enhancing healthcare delivery by improving patient care quality, workflow efficiency, and stakeholder collaboration through advanced Electronic Health Record (EHR) functionalities.

Epic Systems for Interprofessional Care Teams and Stakeholders

Epic Systems plays a vital role in managing patient records, tracking medical histories, and ensuring high-quality care. Implementing Epic Systems, a cloud-based EHR platform, offers several significant benefits to interprofessional care teams and stakeholders. Key advantages include enhanced access to patient information, improved collaboration, and cost efficiencies. A standout feature of Epic Systems is its accessibility (Chishtie et al., 2023). Being cloud-based, it allows healthcare providers and stakeholders to access patient records and medical data from any location with an internet connection. This feature ensures that healthcare teams can deliver patient care effectively, regardless of their physical location.

Moreover, Epic Systems enhances patient care coordination and communication among team members (Scalia et al., 2021). The platform facilitates seamless collaboration by allowing healthcare providers to share patient records and work together across different healthcare organizations, including doctors, nurses, and other professionals. This capability promotes more efficient and coordinated care management, ensuring that patients receive optimal treatment. In addition, Epic Systems contributes to healthcare providers’ cost savings. The platform requires less hardware and infrastructure compared to traditional systems, reducing the need for substantial capital investment in servers, software, and other equipment. This cost efficiency, combined with its advanced features, makes Epic Systems a valuable tool for improving patient care and operational effectiveness (Scalia et al., 2021).

Optimized Information System Workflows with Epic Systems

Enhanced workflows in Epic Systems significantly improve safety practices and quality outcomes in several key ways. Here is how:

Real-Time Access to Patient Information 

Epic Systems enables healthcare providers to access patient information in real-time from any location with internet connectivity. This feature facilitates swift, informed decision-making by allowing providers to review critical data, such as lab results, medication lists, and medical histories, before making clinical decisions. This real-time access reduces the risk of medical errors and enhances patient safety (Bhardwaj et al., 2022).

Standardization of Care 

Epic Systems supports the standardization of care across healthcare organizations by integrating evidence-based clinical protocols and guidelines into its workflows. This standardization minimizes variations in care, reduces diagnostic and treatment errors, and ensures adherence to best practices, leading to improved patient outcomes (Al Ani et al., 2022).

Improved Communication

The platform enhances communication among healthcare providers by enabling easy access and sharing of patient information. This improved communication reduces the risk of errors associated with incomplete or inaccurate data and promotes better coordination and quality of care (Hassett et al., 2022).

Decision Support Tools 

Epic Systems incorporates decision support tools, including alerts, reminders, and clinical decision-making algorithms. These tools provide real-time guidance based on best practices, improving the quality of care and reducing the likelihood of errors (Hassett et al., 2022).

Analytics and Reporting

The system offers robust analytics and reporting capabilities, allowing providers to collect and analyze patient outcomes data. Epic Systems helps identify areas for improvement, uncover trends and patterns in patient care, and inform clinical decision-making and quality improvement initiatives. By optimizing these workflows, Epic Systems supports enhanced safety, quality, and efficiency in patient care (Al Ani et al., 2022).

Alignment with Organizational or Practice Setting Strategic Goals Using Epic Systems

Implementing Epic Systems and refining its information system workflows can significantly advance the strategic objectives of healthcare organizations.

Enhancing Patient Care Quality and Safety

Epic Systems supports the goal of improving patient care quality and safety by providing real-time access to patient data, standardizing care processes, and integrating decision-support tools. These features help reduce errors, enhance care coordination, and elevate the overall quality of care. By ensuring that healthcare providers have immediate access to comprehensive patient information, Epic Systems facilitates informed decision-making and adherence to best practices, ultimately improving patient safety and care outcomes (Beauvais et al., 2020).

Improving Collaboration and Communication

Epic Systems promotes the strategic goal of enhancing collaboration and communication among healthcare providers. The system’s ability to streamline access to and sharing of patient information strengthens teamwork across various healthcare teams. This improved communication leads to better patient outcomes and more efficient use of resources, contributing to reduced healthcare costs and fostering a more integrated care approach (Hassett et al., 2022).

Increasing Efficiency and Effectiveness

The optimization of workflows through Epic Systems aligns with the strategic aim of boosting the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare services. By automating administrative tasks, streamlining data management, and improving patient flow, Epic Systems enhances productivity and reduces operational costs. This efficiency not only lowers the burden on staff but also improves patient satisfaction by providing a more seamless and timely care experience (Bhardwaj et al., 2022).

Achieving Regulatory Compliance and Data Security

Epic Systems supports the goal of regulatory compliance and data security by ensuring adherence to data privacy regulations and minimizing the risk of data breaches. The system’s robust security features protect patient information and uphold confidentiality, which is crucial for maintaining trust with patients and stakeholders. Epic Systems helps healthcare providers meet stringent regulatory requirements while safeguarding sensitive data. By aligning with these strategic goals, Epic Systems plays a crucial role in advancing the overall mission of healthcare organizations, driving improvements in care quality, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance (Epstein et al., 2020).

Suggestions for Enhancing Current Epic Systems Utilization

To maximize the effectiveness of Epic Systems and better meet stakeholder needs, improve outcomes, and boost patient satisfaction, consider the following strategies:

Adopt Intuitive Epic System Features

Healthcare providers often face challenges with the complexity of EHR systems. To address these issues, organizations should focus on leveraging Epic Systems’ user-friendly features. Research indicates that intuitive design elements within Epic Systems can significantly enhance usability, reduce error rates, and improve patient safety and satisfaction. Simplified workflows and streamlined documentation within Epic Systems help ensure accurate clinical records and efficient use of time (Sittig et al., 2022).

Integrate Patient Feedback

Incorporating patient feedback into the utilization of Epic Systems is crucial. Patient insights can reveal how the system impacts their care experience and identify areas for improvement. Studies have shown that patient feedback is valuable for pinpointing issues such as inaccuracies in medication lists or integration gaps with other healthcare services. Epic Systems can be refined based on this feedback to better align with patient needs and enhance their overall experience (Horn et al., 2021).

Offer Comprehensive Training and Support

Investing in robust training and support programs for staff on Epic Systems usage is essential. Practical training can reduce errors and enhance patient safety. Evidence suggests that comprehensive training programs lead to improved accuracy in medication lists and a reduction in adverse drug events. Additionally, leveraging Epic Systems’ data analytics capabilities can help identify areas for improvement, such as minimizing documentation errors and enhancing care coordination (Murto et al., 2022).

Prioritize Data Security and Privacy

Ensuring that Epic Systems adheres to data security and privacy regulations is vital for protecting patient information. Compliance with these regulations not only helps build patient trust but also ensures that sensitive data is secure. Research highlights that patients are more likely to trust organizations with robust data security and privacy measures. Epic Systems offers features to safeguard data and maintain patient confidence in the healthcare organization. By implementing these strategies, healthcare organizations can optimize their use of Epic Systems, leading to improved care quality, better outcomes, and enhanced patient satisfaction (Epstein et al., 2020).

Conclusion

In conclusion, Epic Systems offers a comprehensive and advanced EHR solution that significantly enhances patient care quality, workflow efficiency, and stakeholder collaboration. By leveraging its cloud-based capabilities, real-time data access, and integrated decision support tools, healthcare organizations can achieve notable improvements in care coordination, operational effectiveness, and regulatory compliance. Adopting intuitive features, incorporating patient feedback, providing thorough training, and ensuring robust data security are critical strategies for optimizing Epic Systems’ impact. Ultimately, Epic Systems aligns with organizational goals and drives progress in delivering high-quality, efficient, and secure patient care.

References

Al Ani, M., Garas, G., Hollingshead, J., Cheetham, D., Athanasiou, T., & Patel, V. (2022). Which electronic health record system should we use? – A systematic review. Medical Principles and Practice, 31(4), 342–351. https://doi.org/10.1159/000525135 

Beauvais, B., Kruse, C., Fulton, L., Shanmugam, R., Ramamonjiarivelo, Z., & Brooks, M. (2020). Electronic health record vendors: An evaluation of the association with hospital financial and quality performance. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 23(4), e23961. https://doi.org/10.2196/23961 

Bhardwaj, S., Merrey, J. W., Bishop, M. A., Yeh, H.-C., & Epstein, J. A. (2022). Impact of real-time benefit tools on patients’ access to medications: A retrospective cohort study. The American Journal of Medicine, 135(11), 1315-1319.e2. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2022.06.017 

Chishtie, J., Sapiro, N., Wiebe, N., Rabatach, L., Lorenzetti, D., Leung, A. A., Rabi, D., Quan, H., & Eastwood, C. A. (2023). Use of epic electronic health record system for health care research: Scoping review. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 25(1), e51003. https://doi.org/10.2196/51003 

Epstein, R. H., Hofer, I. S., Salari, V., & Gabel, E. (2020). Successful implementation of a perioperative data warehouse using another hospital’s published specification from epic’s electronic health record system. Anesthesia & Analgesia, 132(2), 465–474. https://doi.org/10.1213/ane.0000000000004806 

NURS FPX 6412 Assessment 3 Manuscript for Publication

Hassett, M. J., Cronin, C., Tsou, T. C., Wedge, J., Bian, J., Dizon, D. S., Hazard-Jenkins, H., Osarogiagbon, R. U., Wong, S., Basch, E., Austin, T., McCleary, N., & Schrag, D. (2022). ESyM: An electronic health record–integrated patient-reported outcomes–based cancer symptom management program used by six diverse health systems. JCO Clinical Cancer Informatics, 6(6), e2100137. https://doi.org/10.1200/cci.21.00137 

Horn, M. E., Reinke, E. K., Mather, R. C., O’Donnell, J. D., & George, S. Z. (2021). Electronic health record–integrated approach for collection of patient-reported outcome measures: A retrospective evaluation. BMC Health Services Research, 21(1), 626. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-021-06626-7 

Murto, S. H., Makus, D., Moore, S., Duffy, K. W., Maniate, J., Scowcroft, K., Buba, M., & Rangel, J. C. (2022). Training physicians and residents for the use of electronic health records – a comparative case study between two hospitals. Medical Education, 57(4), 337–348. https://doi.org/10.1111/medu.14944 

Scalia, P., Ahmad, F., Schubbe, D., Forcino, R., Durand, M.-A., Barr, P. J., & Elwyn, G. (2021). Integrating option grid patient decision aids in the epic electronic health record: Case study at 5 health systems. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 23(5), e22766. https://doi.org/10.2196/22766 

NURS FPX 6412 Assessment 3 Manuscript for Publication

Sittig, D. F., Lakhani, P., & Singh, H. (2022). Applying requisite imagination to safeguard electronic health record transitions. Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association, 29(5), 1014–1018. https://doi.org/10.1093/jamia/ocab291 

NURS FPX 6412 Assessment 2 Presentation to the Organization

Name

Capella University

NURS-FPX 6412 Analysis of Clinical Information Systems and Application to Nursing Practice

Prof. Name

Date

Presentation to the Organization

Slide 2

Hi, Everyone, I hope you are well.

The integration of Epic Systems at St. Paul Regional Health Center marks a transformative shift in healthcare delivery aimed at enhancing evidence-based practice (EBP) and improving patient care quality and efficiency. This presentation outlines the significant changes brought about by this advanced Electronic Health Record (EHR) system, assessing its impact on the workflow, strategic alignment with the organization’s goals, and the resultant benefits for various stakeholders, including healthcare providers, administrative staff, patients, and interprofessional care teams. By examining the rationale behind these changes and their contribution to overall efficiency, safety, and patient satisfaction, we highlight how Epic Systems supports St. Paul Regional Health Center’s commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care (Chishtie et al., 2023).

Slide 3

Workflow/System Change

The implementation of Epic Systems at St. Paul Regional Health Center represents a significant change in the workflow and overall system, driven by the need to enhance EBP and improve patient care quality and efficiency. The primary reason behind this necessary change is the integration of advanced EHR functionalities that provide instant access to comprehensive patient information, streamline clinical workflows, and support clinical decision-making with up-to-date, evidence-based guidelines (Vos et al., 2020).

The shift to using Epic Systems is rooted in the critical need to reduce errors, minimize redundant tasks, and ensure that clinical practices are continuously updated based on the latest research. With instant access to patient data, healthcare providers can make well-informed judgments, effectively customize treatments, and avoid unnecessary tests. Alerts and reminders are sent via clinical decision support technologies integrated into Epic Systems, helping doctors follow best practices and lowering the possibility of unfavorable outcomes (Bhati, 2023).

Furthermore, order entry, medicine administration, and patient data gathering are automated to reduce manual documentation, which lowers the risk of error and frees up time for providing direct patient care. The integration of standardized order sets and clinical decision support ensures consistent and accurate information, further supporting EBP. This system change aligns with the hospital’s strategic goals by promoting data-driven decision-making, enhancing care coordination, and ultimately leading to improved clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction (Sutton et al., 2020).

Slide 4

Supporting the Strategic Plan: Quality Outcomes and Decision-Making

The new workflow introduced by Epic Systems significantly supports the strategic plan of St. Paul Regional Health Center, particularly in the areas of quality outcomes and decision-making through the use of informatics. This comprehensive EHR tool integrates patient data, clinical guidelines, and decision support tools into a single platform, aligning seamlessly with the hospital’s goals of delivering high-quality, evidence-based, as well as patient-centered care (Scalia et al., 2021).

By consolidating patient data and providing real-time access to this information, Epic Systems ensures that healthcare providers have the most current and accurate data available to inform their clinical decisions. This capability directly contributes to higher-quality outcomes by enabling personalized treatment plans, reducing redundant testing, and minimizing the risk of medical errors. The embedded Clinical Decision Support (CDS) alerts further enhance quality by prompting providers to follow evidence-based guidelines, ensuring consistent adherence to best practices (Pawelek et al., 2022).

Slide 5

The strategic plan of St. Paul Regional Health Center emphasizes data-driven decision-making to improve patient care. Epic Systems supports this goal by offering advanced analytics and reporting tools that allow for continuous monitoring and evaluation of clinical practices. These tools enable healthcare providers to identify trends, measure performance, and implement improvements based on the latest evidence and real-time data (Allen & Pak, 2022).

Moreover, the system’s ability to integrate and analyze large volumes of patient data facilitates informed decision-making at both the individual patient level and the organizational level. For example, the use of CDS alerts for managing chronic conditions like diabetes ensures that providers follow recommended protocols, thereby enhancing patient outcomes and aligning with the hospital’s strategic objectives. Epic Systems’ comprehensive approach to managing patient information and supporting clinical decision-making aligns with St. Paul Regional Health Center’s strategic goals by promoting standardized, high-quality care. The system’s functionalities support continuous improvement initiatives, ensuring that patient care is both timely and based on the best available scientific knowledge. In the end, this alignment satisfies the organization’s commitment to patient care excellence by improving clinical results, patient safety, and overall hospital performance (Zhao et al., 2023).

Slide 6

Rationale for Workflow Changes for Stakeholders

The decision to implement Epic Systems at St. Paul Regional Health Center was made after careful consideration of the needs and impacts on various stakeholders, including healthcare providers, administrative staff, and patients. Each group plays a critical role in the success of this system change, and the rationale for these changes is tailored to address their specific requirements and enhance their overall experience (Avdagovska et al., 2020).

Healthcare Providers

The main goals of healthcare providers implementing Epic Systems are to improve clinical decision-making and the standard of patient care. Providers may make well-informed judgments with speed and accuracy thanks to the system’s integration of evidence-based guidelines, clinical decision support tools, and real-time access to patient information. As a result, there is a lower chance of mistakes, less needless chores to complete, and more time for direct patient care. Additionally, automated order entries and standardized order sets streamline workflows, ensuring consistency and adherence to best practices, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes (Alexiuk et al., 2023).

Administrative Staff

Administrative staff will benefit from the new workflow through improved efficiency and accuracy in managing patient data. Epic Systems automates many administrative tasks, such as data entry, scheduling, and billing, reducing the burden of manual documentation and minimizing the risk of errors. This automation not only saves time but also ensures that patient records are up-to-date and easily accessible. The ability to generate detailed reports and analytics helps administrative staff monitor performance, identify areas for improvement, and support data-driven decision-making, aligning with the hospital’s strategic goals of operational excellence and high-quality patient care (Bhati, 2023).

Slide 7

Patients

For patients, the rationale behind the workflow changes is to enhance their overall care experience and satisfaction. Epic Systems provides patients with a seamless and integrated healthcare experience, offering benefits such as timely and accurate treatment plans, reduced wait times, and improved communication with healthcare providers. By enabling patients to contact their care team, see their medical records, and make appointments, the patient portal feature raises patient satisfaction and engagement levels. The hospital’s dedication to patient-centered care is supported by studies that demonstrate patients who use online portals are more likely to follow up on care suggestions and report more excellent satisfaction ratings (Upadhyay & Hu, 2022).

Interprofessional Care Teams

The modifications to the process also benefit interprofessional care teams by promoting improved coordination and communication amongst various healthcare professionals. Epic Systems makes sure that everyone in the team has access to the most recent patient data, which is essential for delivering coordinated and all-encompassing care. This integrated strategy promotes a safer and more effective care environment, which also helps lower the possibility of errors and miscommunications. By supporting interprofessional collaboration, the system aligns with the hospital’s strategic objectives of improving patient outcomes and fostering a culture of teamwork and continuous improvement (Vos et al., 2020).

Slide 8

Efficiency Gains for Healthcare Providers

The improved workflow at St. Paul Regional Health Centre, made possible by Epic Systems, dramatically increases the productivity of the medical staff. Epic Systems enables healthcare professionals to make quicker and more accurate clinical choices by giving them real-time access to patient information. Incorporating clinical decision support technologies, like evidence-based guidelines-based alerts and reminders, shortens the time spent looking for pertinent information and guarantees that best practices are followed. This enhances patient outcomes while also cutting down on the amount of time needed for administrative and decision-making duties, freeing up doctors to concentrate more on providing direct patient care and less on paperwork (Chishtie et al., 2023).

Efficiency Gains for Administrative Staff

Administrative staff benefit from the new workflow through the automation of routine tasks such as data entry, scheduling, and billing. Epic Systems streamlines these processes, reducing the need for manual intervention and minimizing the risk of errors. The system’s ability to generate comprehensive reports and analytics also aids administrative staff in monitoring performance and identifying areas for improvement. This automation and data integration leads to significant time savings and enhances the accuracy of administrative operations, contributing to the overall efficiency of the hospital’s operations (Bhati, 2023).

Slide 9

Efficiency Gains for Patients

Patients experience efficiency gains through improved access to their health information and streamlined care processes. Patients can examine their medical records, make appointments, and contact their healthcare providers online thanks to Epic Systems’ patient portal function. This reduces the need for phone calls and in-person visits for administrative tasks, saving time for both patients and healthcare providers. Additionally, the system’s ability to provide timely and accurate treatment plans minimizes delays in care and improves patient satisfaction, contributing to a more efficient healthcare experience (Petrovskaya et al., 2023).

Efficiency Gains for Interprofessional Care Teams

Interprofessional care teams benefit from the new workflow by having a unified and comprehensive view of patient information. Epic Systems facilitates better communication and coordination among different healthcare providers, ensuring that all team members have access to the same up-to-date data. This integrated approach reduces the likelihood of miscommunication and errors, enhancing the efficiency of care delivery. By promoting teamwork and ensuring that all providers are on the same page, the system supports a more streamlined and effective care process, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and a more efficient healthcare environment (Vos et al., 2020).

Slide 10

Overall Efficiency Driven by EHR Workflow Change

The implementation of Epic Systems, an advanced EHR tool, at St. Paul Regional Health Center has led to notable improvements in overall efficiency. The integration of real-time access to patient data, automated order entries, and streamlined administrative tasks significantly reduces the time and effort required by healthcare providers and administrative staff. By minimizing manual documentation and redundant tasks, Epic Systems allows staff to focus more on direct patient care, thereby enhancing productivity. The ability to generate detailed reports and analytics facilitates continuous monitoring and performance evaluation, further contributing to operational efficiency and aligning with the hospital’s strategic goals of excellence in patient care (Mou et al., 2022).

Enhancing Safety Through EHR Implementation

Safety is a critical component of the new workflow introduced by Epic Systems. The system’s clinical decision support tools provide healthcare providers with alerts and reminders based on evidence-based guidelines, reducing the risk of medical errors and adverse events. By ensuring that all care team members have access to up-to-date patient information, the likelihood of miscommunication and mistakes is significantly diminished. Automated medication administration and standardized order sets also contribute to safer care practices, promoting adherence to best practices and minimizing the risk of errors. These safety enhancements are essential for maintaining high standards of patient care and trust within the organization (Sutton et al., 2020).

Improving Patient Satisfaction with EHR

The introduction of Epic Systems has also positively impacted patient satisfaction at St. Paul Regional Health Center. The patient portal feature enables patients to access their health records, schedule appointments, and communicate with their healthcare providers online, offering convenience and greater control over their healthcare experience. Studies have shown that patients who utilize online portals are more likely to follow up on care recommendations and report higher satisfaction rates. By providing timely and accurate treatment plans, reducing wait times, and facilitating better communication, Epic Systems enhances the overall patient experience, leading to increased satisfaction and engagement (Avdagovska et al., 2020).

Achieving Quality Outcomes through EHR Workflow Change

The workflow change driven by Epic Systems aligns closely with the strategic objectives of St. Paul Regional Health Center to deliver high-quality, evidence-based, and patient-centered care. By integrating comprehensive patient data and clinical decision support tools, the system ensures that care is based on the best available scientific knowledge. This leads to better clinical outcomes by enabling personalized and timely treatment plans, reducing redundant tests, and minimizing errors. The continuous updating of clinical practices based on the latest research ensures that patient care remains aligned with current best practices, further enhancing the quality of outcomes (Donnelly et al., 2022).

Slide 11

Conclusion

In conclusion, the implementation of Epic Systems at St. Paul Regional Health Center has proven to be a pivotal step toward achieving enhanced efficiency, safety, and patient satisfaction. By streamlining workflows, supporting evidence-based practice, and integrating comprehensive patient data, the new Electronic Health Record (EHR) system aligns with the hospital’s strategic goals of delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. The benefits realized across different stakeholder groups underscore the system’s role in promoting better clinical outcomes and operational excellence. As St. Paul Regional Health Center continues to evolve, Epic Systems will remain a cornerstone of its commitment to excellence in patient care and continuous improvement.

References

Alexiuk, M., Elgubtan, H., & Tangri, N. (2023). Clinical decision support tools in the eMR. Kidney International Reports, 9(1). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ekir.2023.10.019

Allen, D. D., & Pak, S. S. (2022). Improving clinical practice with person-centered outcome measurement. Person-Centered Outcome Metrology, 53–105. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-07465-3_4

Avdagovska, M., Stafinski, T., Ballermann, M., Menon, D., Olson, K., & Paul, P. (2020). Tracing the decisions that shaped the development of mychart, an electronic patient portal in Alberta, Canada: Historical research study. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 22(5), e17505. https://doi.org/10.2196/17505

Bhati, D. (2023). Improving patient outcomes through effective hospital administration: A comprehensive review. Cureus, 15(10). https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.47731

Chishtie, J., Sapiro, N., Wiebe, N., Rabatach, L., Lorenzetti, D., Leung, A. A., Rabi, D., Quan, H., & Eastwood, C. A. (2023). Use of EPIC electronic health record system for health care research: Scoping review. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 25(1), e51003. https://doi.org/10.2196/51003

NURS FPX 6412 Assessment 2 Presentation to the Organization

Donnelly, C., Janssen, A., Vinod, S., Stone, E., Harnett, P., & Shaw, T. (2022). A systematic review of electronic medical record-driven quality measurement and feedback systems. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(1), 200. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20010200

Mou, Z., Sitapati, A. M., Ramachandran, M., Doucet, J. J., & Liepert, A. E. (2022). Development and implementation of an automated electronic health record-linked registry for emergency general surgery. Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, Publish Ahead of Print. https://doi.org/10.1097/ta.0000000000003582

Pawelek, J., Baca-Motes, K., Pandit, J. A., Berk, B. B., & Ramos, E. (2022). The power of patient engagement with electronic health records as research participants (preprint). JMIR Medical Informatics, 10(7). https://doi.org/10.2196/39145

Petrovskaya, O., Karpman, A., Schilling, J., Singh, S., Wegren, L., Caine, V., Kusi-Appiah, E., & Geen, W. (2023). Patient and health care provider perspectives on patient access to test results via web portals: Scoping review. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 25(1), e43765. https://doi.org/10.2196/43765

Scalia, P., Ahmad, F., Schubbe, D., Forcino, R., Durand, M.-A., Barr, P. J., & Elwyn, G. (2021). Integrating option grid patient decision aids in the EPIC electronic health record: Case study at 5 health systems. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 23(5), e22766. https://doi.org/10.2196/22766

NURS FPX 6412 Assessment 2 Presentation to the Organization

Sutton, R., Pincock, D., Baumgart, D., Sadowski, D., Fedorak, R., & Kroeker, K. (2020). An overview of clinical decision support systems: Benefits, risks, and strategies for success. NPJ Digital Medicine, 3(1), 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41746-020-0221-y

Upadhyay, S., & Hu, H. (2022). A qualitative analysis of the impact of electronic health records (EHR) on healthcare quality and safety: Clinicians’ lived experiences. Health Services Insights, 15(1), 1–7. https://doi.org/10.1177/11786329211070722

Vos, J. F. J., Boonstra, A., Kooistra, A., Seelen, M., & van Offenbeek, M. (2020). The influence of electronic health record use on collaboration among medical specialties. BioMedCentral BMC Health Services Research, 20(1), 676. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-020-05542-6

Zhao, C., Liang, N., Zhang, H., Li, H., Yang, Y., Zong, X., Chen, Y., Wang, Y., & Shi, N. (2023). Harnessing the power of clinical decision support systems: Challenges and opportunities. Open Heart, 10(2), 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1136/openhrt-2023-002432

NURS FPX 6412 Assessment 1 Policy and Guidelines for the Informatics Staff:Making Decisions to Use Informatics Systems in Practice

Name

Capella University

NURS-FPX 6412 Analysis of Clinical Information Systems and Application to Nursing Practice

Prof. Name

Date

Policy and Guidelines for the Informatics Staff: Making Decisions to Use Informatics Systems in Practice

Nursing informatics merges nursing science, computer science, and information science to efficiently manage and communicate data, information, and knowledge in nursing practice. Implementing Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems is a vital aspect of nursing informatics aimed at enhancing the quality and efficiency of patient care (Arikan et al., 2021). This paper highlights the necessity for well-defined policies and guidelines for the deployment and utilization of an EHR tool, particularly Epic Systems, at St. Paul Regional Health Center. The goal is to offer a detailed policy and guidelines for the efficient use of Epic Systems in clinical settings.

Evaluation of the Function of the Tool Related to Evidence-Based Practice

Epic Systems is an advanced EHR tool that significantly enhances evidence-based practice (EBP) through its functionalities, including instant access to patient information, clinical decision-making support, and integration of evidence-based guidelines at St. Paul Regional Health Center. Real-time access ensures that clinicians can make informed decisions based on the most current patient data, which is essential for avoiding redundant tests and tailoring treatments (Chishtie et al., 2023). The clinical decision support tools within Epic provide alerts and reminders based on the latest research and clinical guidelines, facilitating adherence to EBP and reducing the risk of adverse events (Chishtie et al., 2023). Additionally, the integration of evidence-based guidelines within the system supports the continuous updating of clinical practices, ensuring that patient care aligns with the best available scientific knowledge. Studies have shown that EHR systems like Epic improve hospital performance and enhance patient safety by promoting standardized, high-quality care (Richesson et al., 2021).

Analysis of the Work Setting

At St. Paul Regional Health Center, Epic Systems enhances evidence-based practice (EBP) by streamlining clinical workflows and improving patient care quality. The EHR tool integrates comprehensive patient data, standardized order sets, and clinical decision support, which are essential in a busy hospital setting with diverse patient needs (Withall et al., 2022). Epic Systems provides real-time access to patient records and automated reminders aligned with the latest clinical guidelines, ensuring consistent and accurate information for healthcare providers (Jensen, 2023). This integration supports EBP by reducing errors, improving care coordination, and allowing for continuous monitoring and adjustment of treatment protocols based on up-to-date data.

Analysis: How Epic Systems Support the Strategic Plan

Epic Systems aligns with the strategic plan for evidence-based information use at St. Paul Regional Health Center by providing a comprehensive platform that integrates patient data, clinical guidelines, and decision support tools. For example, the system’s embedded Clinical Decision Support (CDS) alerts assist healthcare providers in adhering to evidence-based guidelines for managing chronic conditions such as diabetes (Withall et al., 2022). These alerts prompt providers to follow recommended protocols for HbA1c testing and glucose monitoring based on the latest research. This capability supports the hospital’s strategic goals by ensuring that care is both timely and aligned with best practices, thereby improving clinical outcomes and enhancing patient care quality (Arikan et al., 2021). By consolidating and analyzing patient data, Epic Systems enables data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement initiatives, aligning with St. Paul Regional Health Center’s objectives of delivering high-quality, patient-centred care.

Assessment: Workflow to Maximize Efficiency and Safe Practice

Epic Systems enhances workflows at St. Paul Regional Health Center by automating order entries, medication administration, and patient data collection. For example, automated order sets and real-time clinical decision support tools reduce manual documentation and ensure adherence to evidence-based guidelines (Withall et al., 2022). This streamlining minimizes redundant tasks and decreases the likelihood of errors, thereby promoting a safer and more efficient care environment. By integrating patient data and facilitating communication among care teams, Epic Systems aligns with evidence-based practice, optimizing both patient safety and care quality.

Assessment of Epic Systems: Interprofessional Care and Patient Satisfaction 

Epic Systems improves interprofessional care and patient satisfaction at St. Paul Regional Health Center by giving all healthcare providers instant access to patient information and clinical decision-making support. This integrated approach supports coordinated care, with studies showing that hospitals using EHR systems like Epic experience a 15% reduction in medication errors and a 10% increase in adherence to clinical guidelines (Ratwani, 2020). The system’s patient portal also contributes to increased patient engagement, with research indicating that patients who use online portals are 30% more likely to follow up on care recommendations and have a 20% higher satisfaction rate with their overall care (Jensen, 2023).

Conclusion

Epic Systems improves patient care at St. Paul Regional Health Center by offering instant access to patient information and clinical decision-making support. It helps streamline workflows, reduce errors, and support evidence-based practices. The system aligns with the hospital’s goals and enhances decision-making. It also promotes better teamwork among healthcare providers and increases patient satisfaction. Overall, Epic Systems contributes to better care and efficient hospital operations.

References

Arikan, F., Kara, H., Erdogan, E., & Ulker, F. (2021). Barriers to adoption of electronic health record systems from the perspective of nurses. CIN: Computers, Informatics, Nursing, Publish Ahead of Print(4). https://doi.org/10.1097/cin.0000000000000848 

Bansler, J. P. (2021). Challenges in user-driven optimization of EHR: A case study of a large Epic implementation in Denmark. International Journal of Medical Informatics, 148, 104394. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2021.104394 

Chishtie, J., Sapiro, N., Wiebe, N., Rabatach, L., Lorenzetti, D., Leung, A. A., Rabi, D., Quan, H., & Eastwood, C. A. (2023). Use of Epic electronic health record system for health care research: Scoping Review. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 25(1), e51003. https://doi.org/10.2196/51003 

Jensen, M. (2023). EHR Integration: Importance, benefits, challenges and best practices | DemandHub. https://www.demandhub.co/articles/ehr-integration/ 

Ratwani, R. M. (2020). Electronic Health Records and improved patient care: Opportunities for applied psychology. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 26(4), 359–365. https://doi.org/10.1177/0963721417700691 

NURS FPX 6412 Assessment 1 Policy and Guidelines for the Informatics Staff:Making Decisions to Use Informatics Systems in Practice

Richesson, R. L., Marsolo, K. S., Douthit, B. J., Staman, K., Ho, P. M., Dailey, D., Boyd, A. D., McTigue, K. M., Ezenwa, M. O., Schlaeger, J. M., Patil, C. L., Faurot, K. R., Tuzzio, L., Larson, E. B., O’Brien, E. C., Zigler, C. K., Lakin, J. R., Pressman, A. R., Braciszewski, J. M., & Grudzen, C. (2021). Enhancing the use of EHR systems for pragmatic embedded research: Lessons from the NIH Health Care Systems Research Collaboratory. Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association, 28(12). https://doi.org/10.1093/jamia/ocab202   

Withall, J. B., Schwartz, J. M., Usseglio, J., & Cato, K. D. (2022). A scoping review of integrated medical devices and clinical decision support in the acute care setting. Applied Clinical Informatics, 13(05), 1223–1236. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0042-1759513 

Appendix

Policy Statement

The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for the use of Epic Systems, an Electronic Health Record (EHR) tool, to ensure the effective and efficient management of patient data, adherence to evidence-based practices, and enhancement of patient care quality at St. Paul Regional Health Center. This policy applies to all healthcare professionals, administrative staff, and IT personnel who interact with the Epic Systems EHR platform within the organization (Bansler, 2021).

Policy

• All patient data must be accurately and promptly entered into Epic Systems. Real-time access to patient information is mandatory to facilitate informed decision-making and avoid redundant testing.

• Epic Systems’ Clinical Decision Support (CDS) tools must be used to guide clinical practice based on the latest evidence-based guidelines (Withall et al., 2022). Providers are required to review and act on CDS alerts to ensure compliance with best practices.

• Epic Systems should be integrated into all relevant clinical workflows to enhance efficiency and safety. Automated order entries, medication administration, and patient data collection must be utilized to reduce manual documentation and minimize errors.

• The EHR system must support interprofessional care by providing all healthcare providers with instant access to patient information and promoting coordinated and comprehensive patient care (Ratwani, 2020).

• Utilize Epic Systems’ patient portal to enhance patient engagement. Encourage patients to use the portal to access their health information, schedule appointments, and follow up on care recommendations.

Guidelines

• Ensure that all healthcare providers and staff have appropriate access to Epic Systems and the Electronic Health Record (EHR) module based on their roles, and complete required training programs to familiarize themselves with the system’s features and functionalities.

• ccurately enter patient information and clinical data into Epic Systems, ensuring all details are up-to-date and complete. Document all patient interactions, including assessments, treatment plans, and communications, directly in the EHR.

• Use Epic’s Clinical Decision Support tools and automated order sets to enhance care and reduce errors.

• Share patient information securely with authorized team members through the EHR.

• Support patients in using the Epic patient portal for managing appointments and communication.

• Maintain EHR security and confidentiality by following HIPAA guidelines.

• Perform regular updates and report technical issues to IT support.

• Integrate Epic with other systems for effective data exchange.

• Use Epic’s billing module to manage patient charges and insurance claims.

• Seek ongoing training and feedback to improve system use and performance.

NURS FPX 6412 Assessment 1 Policy and Guidelines for the Informatics Staff:Making Decisions to Use Informatics Systems in Practice