Using the Electronic Health Record in Nursing Research: Challenges and Opportunities

Area of Science:

• Nursing Science
• Health Informatics

Background:

• The shift from paper-based patient records to electronic health records (EHRs) presents unique challenges and opportunities for nurse researchers.
• Current utilization of EHR data is evolving, with significant potential for advancing nursing research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the challenges and opportunities associated with using electronic health records in nursing research.
• To highlight the need for adapting research methodologies to leverage novel data analytic techniques and large datasets.

Main Methods:

• This is a conceptual analysis and discussion paper, not an empirical study.
• It synthesizes current trends and expert opinions on EHR data utilization in nursing research.

Main Results:

• EHR data offers unprecedented opportunities for nursing science through advanced analytics and large datasets.
• Key challenges include system usability, data presentation, and ensuring data privacy.
• Adapting proposal development and engaging in national data initiatives are crucial.

Conclusions:

• Nurse researchers must adapt their strategies to effectively utilize EHR data.
• Addressing system and data challenges is essential for realizing the full potential of EHRs in nursing science.
• Collaborative efforts can shape the future of EHR data use to answer critical patient care questions.