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UTGH2-MT In response to chogue18: Colleen makes a great point about digital charting. Since beginning our clinical work, I have looked for a paper chart a total of two times; most of my time is spent finding a free computer to retrieve information. With this new technology, gathering and keeping patient information orderly has been made much more possible. Fewer mistakes and more prompt interventions should result from this advancing technology. This allows the nurses to be more efficient and also benefits the patient's care. Computerized risk assessments and barcode medication administration are just a few of the advancements being made in hospital setting.

UTGH2-MT In response to cwilban: Cory makes an extremely valid point as he states, “advances and availability of such technology has led to more impersonal means of communication.” I agree with him that this is not always negative. With less time spent shifting through papers, charts, and dissecting hand written orders, the nurses, doctors can spend more time conversing with the patient at the bedside, instead of with different departments. They can pull up the appropriate chart and have all the needed information right there on the computer screen. This technology aids in preventing identification and diagnostic mistakes and allows different departments of the hospital to communicate with each specialty having an input on patient care.

UTGH2-MT Eighty-five percent of Americans are online; almost half of adults own a smartphone and seventeen percent of Americans use their phones to look up health or medical information (Weaver, et. al, 2012). More apparent than ever before, communicating electronically and on the go is how people connect and interact. Methods of communication have changed; "snail mail" has been replaced with email, taking its place as the main form of communication (Weaver, et. al, 2012). Between text messaging and social networking, a person's every decision can be documented for all to see. Conversations now are more likely to involve emojis and Internet lingo (lol, brb, yolo) than spoken words. This is not only true in everyday life, but also the healthcare world. My pharmacy sends me a text message when my prescription is ready and I can refill my prescription with a snap of a picture. My physician's office even uses an emailing system to confirm and send out reminders for appointments. Electronic communication technology can be used to educate, remind, engage patients, monitor their behavior, and provide feedback (Weaver, et. al, 2012). The use of these electronic resources saves time, effort and money; therefore, improving outcomes and allowing patients to become more involved in their care. Nurses are the primary connectors between patients and their caregiver, putting them in the unique position to push patients to become better partners with their care providers and take control of their health management. By creating direct electronic communications with their patients, via social media, messaging, or email, the patient gets accurate, quality information from a reliable source, discarding the questionable resources. Communication technology has its place in the healthcare industry, providing a reliable and updated way to provide information and stay connected to the general public. Weaver, B., Lindsay, B., & Gitelman, B. (2012). Communication technology and social media: opportunities and implications for healthcare systems. The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, 17(3). Retrieved from Communication Technology and Social Media: Opportunities and Implications for Healthcare Systems