What's your favorite computer charting program?

[TDCHIM]

I'm curious about the current experiences nurses are having with the charting programs in use today. Obviously there are going to be problems with each and every charting method (nothing's ever perfect, right?), but I'd like to know what you all are running into with the various computer charting options.

So what versions do you love or hate? Why? What would your perfect computer charting program include and exclude?

Thanks for your feedback. :)

[mrscoozy]

well i am hoping the computer charting will be user friendly and less time consuming than the paper charting. i have worked with computer charting at other facilities that were a nightmare...so i guess i have to wait and see.

[TDCHIM]

Wow, the patchwork of non-integrated charting systems is just ridiculous. A new charting program and the implementation process are obviously costly, but having personnel playing Musical Charting is inefficient, time-consuming, and dangerous for patients! I've never understood the kind of reasoning that justifies that type of situation. Bite the bullet and switch to one system!

@Meandragonbrett: No wonder your charting process is such a mess! There's no nursing representation on a PI or IT committee? I'm hoping that just springs from ignorance rather than stupidity (though from your descriptions, my hopes are not high). Perhaps you and others from your department could collaborate on a memo to management, pointing out the inefficiency of your current charting arrangement, the difficulties it presents for personnel, and (most importantly) the cost impact of that inefficiency (cumbersome charting process = longer work hours for nurses in order to complete all required duties = increased payroll expenses for company). Then you could suggest convening a PI group to identify the worst trouble spots and work with the program manufacturer to find ways to remedy or improve those issues? It's just a thought....

[schroeders_piano, RN]

Meditech Magic is horrible. However, Meditech 6.0 is extremely easy to use and is based upon using a mouse instead of F keys. I have used numerous EMRs and I actually think EPIC was the worst one that I ever used. I guess I'm in the minority. The only redeeming quality of EPIC was the integration of our cardiac monitors into the program so we didn't have to input the vitals by hand. We just highlighted and excepted which set of vitals we wanted. The pre-flowsheet version of CPSI was a really good program as well, but I don't think it's available anymore.

[TigerGalLE, BSN, RN]

EPIC is the only computer charting program I have ever used and I absolutely love it. I love how every department uses it and how everything you need is right at your fingertips. I do not think the charting is repetitive. We use Connect Care by EPIC. I'm not sure if there are different types or not.

I also love that doctors put their own orders in. The med orders are reviewed by the pharmacist, put directly on the MAR, and then entered into our PYXIS. All within a minute or two (when pharmacy is on the ball). In my hospital each unit has their own pharmacist so this works out well.