Accessing care summaries at point-of-care: Implementation of mobile devices for personal carers in aged care

Abstract

Continued development of mobile technology now allows access to information at the point-of-care. This study was conducted to evaluate the use of one such tool on a mobile device, from the carer perspective. Caregivers across 12 aged-care facilities were supplied mobile devices to access a Picture Care Plan (PCP), a specific tool designed around the role of the personal carer. An anonymous questionnaire was subsequently completed by 85 carers with questions relating to participants’ experience. Perceived helpfulness of the PCP at the point-of-care was high (87%). A significant number of participants believed the use of the PCP increased resident safety and quality of care (76%). Practical components related to the carrying of the device, network speed and the requirement to maintain communication with senior members of staff to ascertain updates were also expressed by participants. Findings suggest that staff are receptive to adoption of mobile devices to access care directives at the point-of-care and that the technology is useful.