Oncology Nursing Perceptions of Patient Electronic Portal Use: A Qualitative Analysis

Purpose/Objectives: To identify nursing staff reactions to and perceptions of electronic portal use in a cancer setting. Research Approach: Qualitative. Setting: Outpatient clinic at the Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. Participants: 13 nurses with a range of credentials and experience, representing infusion, medical oncology, and bone marrow transplantation clinics. Methodologic Approach: Two focus groups were conducted. Theoretical thematic content analysis of data was performed. Findings: Key themes that emerged for consideration of electronic portals included work volume and flow, patient expectations and safety, variation in use of communication technologies, and education and management. Interpretation: The current study provides insight into the implications of electronic portals by identifying nursing staff reactions to this technology. These reactions are predominantly related to the impact on clinical workload and patient safety and expectations. Implications for Nursing: As clinical cancer facilities incorporate electronic portal technology into their operations, attention to the impact on staff workload, division of labor, patient safety, and patient expectations should be considered.