Using cell phones by nurses can affect the quality of care. This study aimed to explore the consequences of using cell phones by nurses in hospitals. A qualitative approach was used. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Nursing staff, patients, and their relatives participated in this study. Categories of "emotionless care," "neglect in care," "impaired professional behavior" and a main theme of "Personal cell phone is a barrier to effective nursing care" extracted. Using cell phone during work could jeopardize patients' safety and ruins the nursing profession image. It is necessary to formulate guidelines on how to use cell phones in hospitals.
Keywords: Smartphone; guideline; nursing care; qualitative research; quality of healthcare.