title: Assessing the value of electronic records.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  With the introduction of electronic records, some nurses have expressed concern about the length of time they spend inputting data on computers.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To explore mental health nurses' views about computer use when engaging with patients in care planning, and to investigate how electronic records contribute to improving service user involvement and care planning in mental health services.
  
  
  METHODS
  A literature review and a descriptive survey based on a questionnaire distributed to 10 wards.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Respondents raised several concerns about electronic records and patient contact. They called for more training specifically on electronic care plans. Concerns were voiced about duplication of work, with nurses continuing to use paper then rewriting on a computer, leaving less time for patient care. A shortage of computers and a lack of space where nurses and patients could meet and develop the electronic care plan together were also issues. A stated benefit was that patient information was easier to read.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Ongoing training, availability of interview rooms, staff attitudes and evaluation of electronic care plans in terms of patient care, interaction between nurses and patients, and partnership working need to be addressed.
authors: Open University.
authors: Keith
authors: K
authors: Edwards
authors: Denise
authors: D
authors: Chiweda
authors: Appiah
authors: A
authors: Oyinka
authors: Chris
authors: C
authors: McKay
authors: Diane
authors: D
authors: Wiles
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D057286:Electronic Health Records / Q000592:standards*; D005260:Female; D019538:Health Care Surveys; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009737:Nursing Records / Q000592:standards*; D009740:Nursing Staff / Q000523:psychology* / Q000592:standards; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D006113:United Kingdom