TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP | 5 Engaging Patients With the Bedside Application When Sharp transitioned to the Epic electronic health records platform, the organization procured the Bedside app, which provides hospitalized patients with easy access to their medical information as well as tools to manage care during their stay. An interprofessional team worked to ensure a comprehensive approach to patient care and technology integration. Use of the app aimed to enhance patient engagement, provide education, and foster connections with the care team, ultimately supporting a technologically advanced, patient-centered hospital environment. Accessible via a Sharp-issued iPad or personal smartphone, the Bedside app offers real-time access to vital signs, lab results, medications, and clinical notes. The app includes educational materials about conditions, treatments and medications, promoting informed decision-making. Patients can also view treatment team biographies and place non-urgent requests for comfort items. Additionally, the Bedside app facilitates discharge planning by providing follow-up care instructions, and it is a critical component of virtual nursing. Outcome: By the end of calendar year 2024, the Bedside app was in use on all inpatient units. Utilization rate met an established goal of 50%, placing Sharp Memorial in the top 10 percent of Epic customers. Photo: (from left) Lauren Richardson, BSN, RN, CCRN, Advanced Clinician, Sharp Memorial Hospital, MICU; Devan Humphries, MSN, RN, PCCN Advanced Clinician, Sharp Memorial Hospital, SICU; Erica Pablo, BSN, RN, CCRN, PCCN, Nurse Educator, Sharp Memorial Hospital, SICU
