CNIO offers tips on implementing new technology

Communication is critical when implementing new technology to ensure patients, providers and staff are aware of the technology and how to use it, according to Chief Nursing Informatics Officer Lisa Stephenson, MSN, RN. The Houston Methodist CNIO says nurses should be included in decisions about new technology and should test it before implementation to make sure it solves problems or improves workflow. Once Houston Methodist selects a technology, the system provides classroom training for the nurses directly impacted, with a support team assisting them. The majority of users receive online training. Stephenson says hospitals need to protect patient privacy to keep data and personal information safe. Houston Medical requires nurses to use secure texting platforms and prohibits nurses from using patient data on private devices. (HealthLeaders Media article, 5/7/24)