The Imperative for Realistic Mock EHR and Clinical Information Systems in Nursing and Medical Simulation Centers

As aspiring clinicians step into the demanding landscapes and workflows of modern medicine, a critical skill often overlooked in traditional simulation training is seamlessly operating within Electronic-Health-Records (EHR) and integrated clinical information systems. While mannequins and patient actors deliver valuable hands-on practice, the increasingly reliant integration of these digital systems makes a fundamental shift in medical education essential. Utilizing highly realistic mock EHRs and clinical information systems in simulation centers is no longer ‘nice-to- have,’ it is imperative for preparing tomorrow’s healthcare workforce.

The Time is Now:
We’re moving beyond simply treating the patient. Clinicians today must be proficient in documenting, communicating, and making decisions through a sophisticated digital environment. The days of paper charts are rapidly fading, and the systems used for scheduling, ordering medication, communicating patient data and clinical decision support are at the heart of the modern care provider workflow. (Due to the current nursing shortage, it is even more important for traveling nurses to have a good understanding of EHR utilization and preferably on multiple platforms (Epic, Cerner etc.)

Why Scenarios with Mock EHRs Matter More Than Ever:
• Authentic Workflow Simulation: Generic scenarios are ineffective if they don’t mirror the complex, interconnected processes of the real hospital clinical workflow. High-fidelity mock EHRs simulate the daily tasks – charting, order sets, clinical decision support, lab orders, and even scheduling – that clinicians encounter.
• Single Sign-On: The single sign on experience should be taught to students so they can develop familiarity with this integration and have a more fluid transition into a hospital work environment.
• Embracing AI-Powered Scribes: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming clinical documentation. Integrating AI scribing tools into the simulation environment allowing students to practice generating notes under the guidance of virtual assistants is very important. Expecting students to learn on the job how to effectively utilize these tools is simply no longer sustainable. Students should explore the capabilities and limitations of AI-powered documentation.
• Telemedicine Training: With the pervasive rise of telemedicine, simulating patient encounters via EHR systems is paramount. Students must master how to accurately document patient information through virtual portals, interpret data received remotely, and collaborate with a team based on this information.
• Continuum of Care: Scenarios involving continuum of care, particularly those involving team-based handoffs, are incredibly valuable. These simulations allow students to learn how to effectively chart departmental information in multi-space scenarios, emphasizing the crucial role EHRs and clinical information systems play in coordinated patient care.

Creating Effective Simulations:
To maximize the effectiveness of mock EHR training, simulation centers should:
• Utilize realistic, customizable EHR platforms with mock integrated clinical information systems such as PACS, LIMS (labs), Pharmacy systems etc.
• Create realistic scenarios that reflect actual clinical workflows that also focus on documentation.
• Integrate realistic decision support tools. (This will evolve further with AI).
• Incorporate feedback loops and debriefing sessions to reinforce learning.

EHR investment for the future:
Incorporating mock EHRs and clinical information systems into medical simulations is a strategic investment in the skills demanded of future clinicians. It empowers learners to navigate the complexities of digital health, improving patient care and preparing them for success in a dynamic, technologically driven medical landscape.