Evaluation of the Evolution of Digital Nursing Interventions in an Emergency Unit: An Observational Study

This study aimed to examine the influence of new ICTs on the recording of nursing interventions in the Emergency Unit of the High Resolution Hospital (HRH) of Loja (Granada), Spain. A descriptive observational study was conducted to analyze the evolution of the Nursing Interventions (NIC) records in the Emergency Unit of the Loja HRH (Granada) from 2017 to 2021. Results showed that 11,076 NIC registrations were exploited, which increased by 51.2% from 2017 to 2021. The linear correlation between the NIC and the years was analyzed with Spearman's coefficient, obtaining a low level of correlation (p = 0.166), but one that is statistically significant (p < 0.001). The introduction of tablet devices in the emergency room of the Loja HRH (Granada) led to a significant increase in the percentage of NIC recorded and collated during the study period without increasing the number of emergencies attended. However, usability barriers of ICTs were detected, highlighting the need to guide and train health professionals in their use and in the culture of patient safety.

Automated summary

This study examined the impact of new ICTs on nursing intervention records in the Emergency Unit of a hospital in Granada, Spain. The analysis of records from 2017 to 2021 showed a 51.2% increase in registrations. Although there was a low level of correlation between the records and the years, the introduction of tablet devices led to a significant increase in the percentage of recorded interventions without a rise in emergency cases. However, usability barriers of ICTs were identified, emphasizing the importance of training healthcare professionals in their use and promoting a culture of patient safety.