Unintended consequences of the electronic health record and cognitive load in emergency department nurses

Abstract

Aim: The study aimed to explore the relationship between the unintended consequences of the electronic health record and cognitive load in emergency department nurses.

Methods: The study utilized a correlational quantitative design with a survey method approach. This study had a 30.4 % response rate for a total of 304 ED nurse participants who were members of a national ED nursing organization. Data analysis included descriptive and correlational measurements of two instruments.

Results: In this study, there was a statistically significant, weak negative relationship between CL and UC-EHR in ED nurses, r_s (264) = -0.154, p 0.002. Although a significant weak relationship was identified in this study, the study variables, subscales, and demographic data groupings presented moderate-to-strong positive, statistically significant correlations. Descriptive frequency data unveiled EHR stimulated patient safety threats occurring once a week to monthly.

Conclusions: The novelty of this research study provided profound implications for the future of nursing practice, policy, and nursing science. EHR optimization to minimize patient safety risks is recommended with the inclusion of end-users from this study's identified subgroups. The researchers propose a reduction of EHR burden in nursing practice.

Keywords: Cognitive load; Electronic health record; Emergency nursing; Patient safety; Unintended consequences.