Introduction The emergency department (ED) is a critical, fast-paced environment that is susceptible to medical errors. Medical errors are defined as a ‘preventable adverse event or near miss due to the failure of a planned action to be completed as intended or use of a wrong plan to achieve an aim’ (Pham et al., 2012, p. 448). They are the cause of 98,000 annual deaths in the United States. Per the Institute of Medicine (IOM), preventable adverse drug events (ADE) were one of the most prevalent sources of avoidable medical errors with an annual occurrence of 1.5 million events. ADEs are also one of the most expensive errors, costing approximately $3.5 billion each year in the United States in 2006 (Pham et al., 2012). Adverse events were found to take place in 5 to 10% of health incidents with half of the incidents being avoidable (Watters & Truskett, 2013). Among these medical errors are diagnostic errors (incorrect diagnosis or failure to diagnose), which are the leading sources of error in emergency departments (Brown, McCarthy, Kelen & Levy, 2010). Some examples include the medication administration errors, false positive lab test results, unnecessary costs, tests and treatments (Schuur, Hsia, Burstin, Schull, & Pines, 2013). Per a national database of physician malpractice insurers, the payout for diagnostic errors was more than $347 million, which accounted for 46% of emergency department malpractice claims (Brown, McCarthy, Kelen & Levy, 2010). Diagnostic errors alone account for nearly 40,000-80,000 annual deaths in the United States (Pham et al., 2012). Factors in the ED such as psychological stress, fatigue, time pressure, distractions, overwhelming workloads, lack of immediate and complete patient health information can increase the rate of diagnostic errors (Mirvis, 2015). Overcrowding can cause errors such as erroneous documentation and malfunctioning administrative processes in emergency care (Ben-Assuli & Leshno, 2013). Another factor is information overload, which can generate so much anxiety that even coping strategies may become ineffective. Emergency nurse practitioners (ENPs) overwhelmed by these factors can increase the clinical risk to ED patients and increase the risk of ineffective communication (Burley, 2011). System-related interventions such as health information technology (HIT) have the potential to significantly reduce the rates of diagnostic errors, complications, mortality and costs. In 2005, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) reported that the HIT implementation could result in net annual savings of $80 billion (Encinosa & Bae, 2011). HIT has also been reported to save the United States nearly $88 billion in costs over 10 years. Some examples of HIT include bar-coded medication administration (BCMA) systems, computerized physician order entry (CPOE), clinical decision support systems (CDSS), electronic medical records (EMR) and electronic health records (EHR). (Agrawal, 2009). HIT can also notably improve the quality and efficiency of a hospital. After a 41% increase in HIT system adoption, one hospital’s readmission rates decreased by 41% in 2008 through 2012 (Ben-Assuli, Shabtai & Leshno, 2013). In terms of quality, one study from a Latter-Day Saint (LDS) Hospital showed a 55% statistically significant decrease in non-intercepted serious medication errors because of computerized provider entry use. A second study with a time-series design showed an even more significant reduction of 86% in non-intercepted serious medication errors. In terms of efficiency, one study from the Regenstrief Institute found that alerting physicians using computerized order entry resulted in an 11% decrease in treatment delivery time (Chaudhry, 2006). These computer systems can provide a safety net to healthcare providers by lessening their cognitive load. They also back up important patient health files and documents through the aggregation of patient information and feedback assistance (Pham et al., 2012). Purpose This systematic analysis aims to provide a deeper understanding of HIT to healthcare providers, organizations and the public. It considers how diagnostic errors can be reduced in emergency department patients by supplying evidence of positive and negative impacts of HIT from previous academic literature. Providing both perspectives will hopefully assist healthcare providers in becoming more informed about investing in HIT in their organization.

Mastering the Art of Online Learning: Your Guide to Acing Online Courses

Introduction

In recent years, the popularity of online courses has skyrocketed, offering learners the flexibility to acquire new skills and knowledge from the comfort of their homes. However, succeeding in online courses requires a different approach compared to traditional classroom settings. To help you make the most of your online learning experience, this article presents essential strategies and tips to ace your online courses.

1. Set Clear Goals and Plan Ahead

Before embarking on an online course, establish clear goals and objectives. Determine what you hope to achieve by the end of the course and break down your goals into manageable milestones. Create a study schedule that aligns with your other commitments, ensuring you allocate dedicated time for coursework, assignments, and revision.

2. Create a Productive Study Environment

Establishing a conducive study environment is crucial for online learning success. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can concentrate without distractions. Remove any potential interruptions, such as notifications from social media or email. Organize your study materials and have a reliable internet connection to ensure seamless access to course materials.

3. Actively Engage in the Course

Active participation is key to mastering online courses. Engage with course materials, including videos, readings, and interactive components. Take comprehensive notes, highlighting key concepts and ideas. Participate in discussion boards, forums, and virtual meetings to interact with instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and enhancing your understanding of the subject matter.

4. Manage Your Time Effectively

Online courses offer flexibility, but it’s essential to manage your time wisely to avoid falling behind. Create a detailed schedule, allocating specific time slots for coursework, assignments, and studying. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable segments to prevent procrastination. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and dedicate focused time to each one, ensuring consistent progress throughout the course.

5. Develop Effective Communication Skills

Online courses often rely on written communication, making it crucial to hone your skills in this area. Be concise and clear in your written responses, paying attention to grammar and spelling. Actively participate in discussions, asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback to your peers. Regularly check your course emails and notifications, ensuring you stay updated with any important announcements or changes.

6. Utilize Available Resources

Take full advantage of the resources provided by your online course platform and instructors. Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) and explore its features. Access supplementary materials, such as textbooks, lecture slides, and external resources recommended by instructors. Utilize online libraries, research databases, and tutorial services to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

7. Stay Motivated and Engaged

Maintaining motivation throughout an online course can be challenging, particularly when faced with competing priorities or a lack of face-to-face interaction. Set short-term goals and reward yourself upon their completion. Connect with fellow learners through virtual study groups or online forums to foster a sense of camaraderie. Regularly remind yourself of the benefits and personal growth associated with completing the course successfully.

8. Seek Support and Clarification

Don’t hesitate to seek support or clarification when needed. Reach out to your instructors for guidance or clarification on course material. Utilize online discussion forums to ask questions or engage in collaborative problem-solving. Leverage the support services provided by your course platform or institution, such as technical support or academic advising.

Conclusion

Online courses present unique opportunities for self-paced learning and personal growth. By setting clear goals, creating a productive study environment, actively engaging with course materials, and managing your time effectively, you can maximize your chances of acing online courses. Remember to stay motivated, seek support when needed, and make the most of the available resources. Embrace the flexibility and adaptability of online learning to achieve your educational goals.