Module 1 Question 2

Information technology (IT) plays huge roles in critical care by how data is assimilated, recorded, and then interpreted for diagnostic information. A prime example is the newer SMART IV infusion devices. Programed into the pumps are information related to medication concentration, amount, dosage, calculation of patients' weight, and guardrails to protect the patient from medical error. The responsibility still resides on the nurse choosing and programming the pump correctly, however, the pump provides set doses and concentrations for the nurse to choose from decreasing the chance of programming too large of a dose or too small of a dose.

Many hospitals have gone to an electronic charting system. These electronic systems can be kept longer than paper systems, don't smear the writing over the years, and provide a legible, legal record that holds up in court. Secondly, electronic systems are more secure from breach, provide strict confidentiality and can show footprints of unauthorized users in charts.

Codes seen are specific to procedures and equipment used for the patient. Based on code systems the patient is charge for the equipment or procedure based on the code submitted to the computer. Codes are organized specific to a department. Questionable codes on a patient are easily recognizable by the department and a phone call or e-mail can quickly correct the mistake and re-order the procedure/equipment appropriately. Because the codes are specific to different departments, the multidisciplinary code system promotes autonomy, pride and responsibility for each department to accurately and speedily deliver the equipment/procedure to the patient. This approach empowers all departments in effectively delivering quality care to the patient.