Nurses' Understanding of Ethical Dimension of Using Electronic Health Records (EHRs)

Abstract

Background:  Electronic Health Records (EHRs) undoubtedly offer various advantages over the paperwork system. However, the utilisation of EHRs has been questioned, particularly among nurses, who are the leading users of EHRs among other healthcare professions. Objective: This study aimed to explore the nurses' understanding of ethical concerns with using EHRs.  Methods: A qualitative descriptive study design was applied in this study. Purposive sampling was employed to recruit ten nurses, which proved sufficient to achieve data saturation. Semi-structured individual via phone interviews and face to face was conducted in August 2021 and audio recorded. A qualitative thematic analysis approach was utilised. Findings: Three overarching themes arose from the analysis: (1) Access to patient information, (2) Disclosure of patient information, (3) Maintaining ethical integrity. Conclusions: The research showed that nurses knew the ethical considerations surrounding patient information access and disclosure. However, concerns were raised about inappropriate access and sharing of personal EHR accounts and passwords. Additionally, the nurses felt that an ethical code alone would not discourage nurses from inappropriately using EHRs. Consequently, it highlights the need to revise the current ethical codes to include measures to maintain health data integrity.