8.1/9.1: Ethical Issues

Potential Hazards 

As with every electronic health record system (EHRS), our program is susceptible ethical hazards risking privacy and confidentiality, security breaches, system implementation, and data inaccuracies. This study outlines all issues present in current EHR systems:

Errors within the SBAR system, whether brought on by user error or software bugs, may result in improper patient care actions. The identification and resolution of these mistakes in a digital setting may put conventional error reporting and accountability procedures in jeopardy. Patient confidentiality may suffer greatly as a result of unauthorized access or data breaches, which may breed mistrust and even cause harm. 

Solutions

Unfortunately, these ethical risks have no way of being completely resolved, as they are intrinsic issues within modern software that we do not have the ability to completely correct at this time. However, there are many safeguards we shall implement to prevent breaches of these ethical concerns. We shall provide precise guidelines for reporting and resolving system errors within the SBAR system, which will allow to promote a culture of openness and ongoing development where disclosing mistakes is viewed as a chance to improve patient care rather than a reason for disciplinary action.  Strict access controls, frequent security audits, and advanced encryption (passwords) shall all be used to safeguard patient data. Train employees on the value of data privacy to avoid security lapses.  Also, being able to teach medical professionals to complement, not replace, their expertise with the system. Encourage the use of digital documentation in conjunction with ongoing training and practice in basic care skills.