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Using Computers for Healthcare
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Overview

Gain digital skills for healthcare, including EHRs, data security, and ethical technology use.

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Estimated Dates
Digital Textbook: Available Now
Print Textbook: June 2025
Audiobook: N/A
Next Edition: 2029
Author / Editor
Annual Student Impact

1,406 students | 140 high school students | $287,556 student savings

Using Computers in Healthcare is a practical guide designed to help healthcare students and professionals develop the digital skills necessary for modern healthcare settings. This textbook covers essential topics such as electronic health records (EHRs), healthcare software applications, data security, and the ethical use of technology in patient care. With a focus on real-world application, it provides step-by-step instructions, case studies, and interactive exercises to enhance proficiency in using digital tools effectively. Ideal for those entering or advancing in healthcare careers, this resource equips readers with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate technology-driven healthcare environments and improve patient outcomes.

1. Use word processing software to generate professional healthcare documents

1.a. Examine the use of word processing software in healthcare
1.b. Use software templates to complete common healthcare documents (e.g., memo, business letter, marketing documents)
1.c. Use shortcut keystrokes
1.d. Create and format a table
1.e. Insert components in a document (e.g., mail merge, hyperlinks, clip art, photos)
1.f. Send word processing documents electronically
1.g. Follow standard/professional guidelines to create the documents
1.h. Use proofing and language tools
1.i. Format text, paragraphs, and objects in documents
1.j. Use file handling commands of the software (Open, Save, Save As, Print)

2. Use presentation software to convey healthcare related information

2.a. Examine the use of presentation software in healthcare
2.b. Use design themes and software templates to create the presentation
2.c. Use file handling commands of the software (Open, Save, Save As, Print)
2.d. Add objects (e.g., clip art, photos, audio, video)
2.e. Enhance the presentation using software tools (e.g., SmartArt, hyperlinks, animations, slide transitions)
2.f. Add speaker notes
2.g. Follow standard/professional guidelines for effective presentations (e.g., bullet points, adequate white space)

3. Use spreadsheet software to summarize and report healthcare data

3.a. Examine the use of spreadsheet software in healthcare
3.b. Open workbooks
3.c. Enter and format data
3.d. Enter formulas and functions
3.e. Create charts and graphs
3.f. Sort and filter data
3.g. Edit worksheets
3.h. Create worksheets
3.i. Save worksheets
3.j. Follow standard/professional guidelines for effective use

4. Utilize a database

4.a. Examine the use of databases in healthcare
4.b. Enter and edit data
4.c. Perform a query
4.d. Generate a report

5. Communicate using technology in the healthcare setting (virtual meetings, interoffice communication, email, fax)

5.a. Differentiate between secure and unsecure communication methods
5.b. Choose the most appropriate communication method for the situation
5.c. Ensure communication maintains security and confidentiality of patient information
5.d. Present communication in a professional manner
5.e. Follow accepted online or written etiquette

6. Examine the security considerations of the electronic health record

6.a. Describe the HIPAA requirements related to the use of the electronic health record
6.b. Explain the ownership of the electronic health record
6.c. Explain minimal necessary use of the electronic health record
6.d. Describe the electronic health record audit trails
6.e. Identify the impact of security breaches for yourself and the organization
6.f. Summarize ways to safeguard the security of the electronic health record: administrative, technical and physical

7. Demonstrate entry level skills for using the electronic health record

7.a. Log in to the electronic health record software
7.b. Navigate the various parts of the electronic health record
7.c. Access medical resources from the electronic health record
7.d. Locate specific information within the record
7.e. Record patient visit information

8. Examine the role of social media in healthcare

8.a. Describe the confidentiality practices related to social media
8.b. Differentiate between personal and professional uses of social media
8.c. Explore social media policies established by healthcare organizations
8.d. Explain how organizations use social media

9. Evaluate the reliability of digital healthcare resources

9.a. Identify commonly used digital resources
9.b. Evaluate the authority of the resource
9.c. Evaluate the accuracy of the resource
9.d. Evaluate the objectivity of the resource
9.e. Evaluate the currency of the resource
9.f. Evaluate the contextual use of the resource

10. Examine cybersecurity strategies utilized to protect business and personal computer systems

10.a. Explore types of cybersecurity threats
10.b. Describe types of cybersecurity threats
10.c. Discuss ways to detect phishing
10.d. Describe ways to protect computers from malware

11. Demonstrate entry level skills while using Windows

11.a. Describe how to use Windows, including the taskbar and changing Window sizes
11.b. Use the Recycle Bin
11.c. Demonstrate file management skills by creating files, folders, and shortcuts
11.d. Demonstrate how to take screenshots

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