Utilizing technology to improve intraoperative family communication

Minna M. Wieck, Blue Blake, Chanda Sellick, Daniel Kenron, Daniel DeVries, Susan Terry, Sanjay Krishnaswami

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

10 Scopus citations

Abstract

Purpose To create and assess satisfaction with an electronic-medical-record (EMR) integrated communication system designed to optimize perioperative communication with families. Methods We built a tool in the EMR's intraoperative nursing navigation screen for sending customized or standardized text pages to families in English or Spanish. Preoperatively, families were given text pagers with instructions and a hospital map to facilitate leaving the waiting area. After 6 months, Press-Ganey™ data and internal surveys from randomly selected families, and all nurses and surgeons were analyzed for satisfaction and effectiveness. Results Press-Ganey™ data demonstrated 30% improvement in patient satisfaction (p < 0.05). Among families, > 90% indicated pagers were easy to use and provided the desired information during surgery. Of nurses, >90% found the system easy to use and believed it improved families' experience. All surgeons reported improved intraoperative communication and ease of finding families postoperatively. Conclusion Perioperative family communication via EMR-integrated text improves efficiency and family, nurse, and surgeon satisfaction.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)895-900
Number of pages6
JournalAmerican journal of surgery
Volume213
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - May 2017

Keywords

  • Electronic medical record
  • Patient satisfaction
  • Perioperative communication
  • Technology

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery

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