Background/Objective: Proficiency in computerized documentation systems is an essential element of most areas of\nnursing practice today. Community health is one example of an area of nursing practice where computerized\ndocumentation systems help in the provision of high quality care. Nursing students must learn the basic principles of and\nbegin to participate in the practices of computerized nursing documentation. It is, therefore, the responsibility of nursing\nfaculty to promote student involvement in this important process.\nMethods: Two different faculty experiences with students participating in computerized nursing documentation were\ndescribed using different electronic systems, a notebook computer system and a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) system.\nResults/Conclusions: After reviewing the results of this descriptive experience, it is recommended that before students\nparticipate in computerized documentation, they receive written instructions. Sample charts, practice under direct faculty\nand staff guidance, and standardizing the learning experience are imperative. Educating the student in a technological\nenvironment is no longer optional for nurse faculty as the accurate documentation, transmission and management of data\nassures that the best practices are maintained, the proper billing of visits can be ensured, and the communication between\nthe nursing student and community health nurses, as well as all members of the multi-disciplinary team is fostered.
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