As the conversion to an electronic health record intensifies, the question of which data-entry device works best in what environment and situation is paramount. Specifically, what is the best mix of equipment to purchase and install on clinical units based on staff preferences and budget constraints? The authors discuss their evaluation of stationary personal computers, workshops on wheels, and handheld tablets related to timeliness of data entry and their use of focus groups to ascertain the pros/cons of data-entry devices and staff preferences. An assessment of the implications for costs related to the timeliness of data entry is also presented.

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A convenience sample (n = 60) of two comparable groups of cardiac bypass patients was studied to assess the effectiveness of a structured teaching guide used by nurses in educating patients and families about normal postoperative recovery and risk-factor modification. One group was educated by an unstructured method, and the other group received structured teaching with the use of a written guide developed by nurses experienced in open-heart recovery. Both groups had higher total knowledge scores postoperatively than preoperatively. To assess whether the type of teaching had affected changes in behavior, a six-week postoperative health interview was conducted, and a follow-up questionnaire was mailed at one year.