No More Paper Charts?

Dixiedi · May 25, 2004

At the hospital where I work, we are all currently learning a new computer program that EVERYONE will soon be using for their charting. (Of course, there'll be only certain areas that CNAs and others can only go to.)
They told us in the first class I've gone to that as soon as everyone learns it, we will be using this for about everything and will no longer be having the old paper charting. The MDs will also be using this system...which means being able to read what they say, lol.
Being able to know for sure what the DR is ordering is one advantage. Another one is that it keeps record of who all even VIEWS anything anywhere on each patient, so that will cut down on those who snoop on people they know but aren't directly caring for and have no reason to be looking.
Another one may help on the day shifts when there may be several people needing to look at a person's chart at the same time. (Assuming it can be viewed by more than one at a time.)
A disadvantage, I would think, is that it may take longer to find what you're looking for quickly...whereas with a paper chart, you can flip right through the section and flip through the pages. Plus, a computer may not be available & you'll have to wait your turn. Another disadvantage...what about when the computers go down?
Has anyone gone to using this? If so, how do you like it/not like it?
Thanks!

Very easy to use and everybody in the building (with access) can look at the same chart, same page if they want to.

The data base on each of your pts will be very easy to find what you want. I have seen them set up exactly as the sections in the paper chart were labeled. Then you can choose the date or whatever and there it is. Coffee stains are no longer an issue on lab results (or any other sheet of paper!)

I have only used PC based charting in home care so finding an available PC was not an issue. However, I just can't see an institution not having enough workstations to go around. But... ya never know!

camay1221_RN · May 25, 2004

I used to work for a hospital with all paper, then went to one with all computers. I found that that it left me wondering if I got everything done or not. However, after I got used to the computers, it was very easy for me to see how much time I was saving on charting once I got myself into a system using the computer.

Now, I work in a clinic that has all computer charting, and I just love it! I started in the call center of this organization, and recently started in the clinic with a Pediatrician. I find the computer charting to be extremely helpful with looking up information, and for the most part, the system we use is very user friendly.

SCRN1 · May 25, 2004

We do already chart in the computer. But what I'm saying here is that once the everyone in the hospital learns this new program, there will be NO charts any longer EXCEPT what's in the computer.

Dixiedi · May 25, 2004

We do already chart in the computer. But what I'm saying here is that once the everyone in the hospital learns this new program, there will be NO charts any longer EXCEPT what's in the computer.

And that's the way it should be. Why have all that paper laying around when everything can be safely stored on a hard drive? If a hard copy of something is needed, it can always be printed.

PCs save time, money, accuracy and sanity!