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EDUCATION
Utilizing Technological Devices in Nursing Communication: Best Practices and Pitfalls

By Alex Valdez, MSN, RN, CEN

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In the dynamic world of nursing, communication is the cornerstone of effective patient care. The advent of advanced technology has revolutionized how we interact with colleagues and patients, making communication more streamlined and secure. This article will explore the practical application of SecureChat and Inpatient Texting within our Epic platform and the Vocera devices, highlighting best practices and key considerations.
SecureChat is a powerful tool that facilitates immediate and secure communication among healthcare professionals. Its encrypted messaging ensures patient information remains confidential, adhering to HIPAA regulations. To make the most of SecureChat, consider utilizing group chats for team discussions to ensure everyone is informed. Linking patients to these chats allows clinicians to access critical patient care components quickly. It's important to avoid sharing sensitive information outside the app and to ensure that messages are professional and concise to prevent misunderstandings. Additionally, urgent messages requiring immediate attention should not be sent through SecureChat.
Inpatient texting bridges the gap between nurses and patients, offering a direct line of communication. This tool is handy for providing updates, reminders and quick answers to patient queries, avoiding using clinicians' personal devices by enabling secure messaging directly through the Epic application. Best practices for inpatient texting include reminding patients and their families about medication schedules or upcoming tests, keeping messages clear and straightforward to avoid confusion, and maintaining a personable and polite tone. However, it is crucial not to use inpatient texting to deliver bad news or detailed medical explanations. Always verify the patient's identity before sending sensitive information to prevent privacy breaches.
Vocera is a hands-free communication device that enables instant voice communication in healthcare. Its ease of use and accessibility make it an invaluable asset. To get the most out of Vocera, use it for urgent communication that requires immediate attention and take advantage of its voice command features to reduce response time. Avoid using Vocera in noisy environments where voice commands may be misinterpreted. Be mindful of the information shared on the device, especially when using the speaker functionality, and ensure the device is always charged and ready for use to prevent communication delays.
Maintaining professionalism and prioritizing patient privacy is essential when utilizing these technological tools. Always double-check recipient information to prevent accidental disclosure of sensitive data. Regular training sessions can help staff stay updated on best practices and new features, ensuring everyone is comfortable and proficient with these tools.
SecureChat, Inpatient Texting and Vocera are transforming nursing communication by enhancing efficiency and security. We won't stop there, though. We have already transitioned to Apple iPhones at HMH and look forward to continuing this project at the community sites this September. This project will continue our work to optimize the technological tools available for effective clinical communications. By adhering to best practices and being mindful of potential pitfalls, nurses can leverage these tools to improve patient care and streamline workflows. As we continue to embrace technology, it is our responsibility to use it wisely and ethically, upholding the highest standards of nursing practice.