Introduction

Patient safety is a critical aspect of healthcare, given the severe consequences of preventable errors and adverse events (Sousa et al., 2019). Electronic Health Records (EHRs), while intended to enhance safety and efficiency, can introduce risks if not properly utilized. This appraisal examines the impact of EHRs on patient safety and explores strategies to mitigate associated risks (Tubaishat, 2019). Specifically, it addresses the question: How do EHRs influence patient safety, and what interventions can improve their safe usage? The central argument is that EHRs can enhance safety by providing timely and accurate patient information but require proper implementation to avoid potential harm. Evidence-based strategies, such as rigorous data entry protocols and user training, are essential to realize these benefits.

Critical Appraisal of Evidence-Based Practice

Evidence-based practice (EBP) integrates clinical expertise with the best available research and patient preferences to ensure high-quality care. This systematic approach includes methods such as randomized controlled trials, qualitative and quantitative research, and expert evaluations. EBP not only improves care delivery but also assists clinicians in making informed decisions based on patient-specific characteristics and clinical insights. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool is used in this paper to critically appraise interventions, particularly those aimed at improving EHR-related patient safety. This tool’s utility in assessing research bias ensures a thorough examination of interventions and their outcomes (Farrah et al., 2019).

Proposed Interventions for Improving Patient Safety

Three key interventions to improve patient safety in EHR usage emerge from the reviewed literature:

1. Strict Data Entry Protocols: Errors in patient care often stem from improper data entry. Implementing mandatory guidelines for entering and verifying data can reduce these risks (Shim et al., 2019).
2. Comprehensive User Training: Continuous education and training for EHR users ensure familiarity with system updates and best practices, minimizing errors and boosting confidence among users (Koppel et al., 2016).
3. Enhancing EHR Usability: Making systems more intuitive and user-friendly decreases the likelihood of errors and improves overall efficiency, thereby enhancing patient safety.

Table: Summary of Key Aspects

Conclusion

The reviewed studies demonstrate the dual potential of EHRs to enhance and endanger patient safety. While EHRs provide critical tools for accurate and efficient patient data management, their effectiveness hinges on proper implementation and user practices. Evidence-based interventions such as data entry protocols, user training, and usability enhancements can significantly improve patient safety outcomes. Adopting these strategies, tailored to the specific needs of healthcare organizations, is essential to mitigate risks and leverage the full potential of EHR systems.

References

Ford, E. W., Silvera, G. A., Kazley, A. S., Diana, M. L., & Huerta, T. R. (2016). Assessing the relationship between patient safety culture and EHR strategy. International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance, 29(6), 614–627. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJHCQA-10-2015-0125