Journal of Health & Medical Informatics

Attitudes about the Use of Smartphones in Medical Education and Practice in Emergency Department of Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Ritesh Chaudhary*, Bhandari Rabin,  Poudel Masum

Background: Smartphone has emerged common place within the medical field. Most health care experts desire current clinical facts and decisions that support at the point of patients’ care. The study was carried out to ascertain the use of smartphones in medical education and practice in Emergency Department of BP Koirala institute of Health Sciences (BPKIHS), Nepal.

Method: A cross-sectional study was done in all the medical officers, residents and faculties working in emergency department of BPKIHS.

Result: Ninety-nine percent (99%) of participants reported using smartphones and 89% of participants used smartphones over more than two years. 55% bought smartphone to use in medical education and 98% of participants found using medical apps in clinical practice. 99% believed that smartphone apps were supportive to learning especially in clinical exam tests and findings 75%. Ninety-six (96%) of the participants believed the concept of smartphones was useful. 66% of respondents expressed their views regarding smartphone use in medical education.

Conclusion: The study confirms that smartphones are ubiquitously adopted by residents, medical officers and faculties which enhance both learning and continuing patients’ care. It is advisable to understand its need and maximize its benefits in field of medical education.