Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This survey study describes how nurses use personal communication devices while providing direct patient care and identifies generational differences.
BACKGROUND: Personal communication devices enhance and distract from patient care. Generational differences exist and these should be included in workplace policies.
METHODS: A study-specific survey was developed. Data were collected from 335 qualified participants and descriptively analyzed in total, then by generational specific study groups.
RESULTS: The perception of these participants is that personal communication devices do not pose a serious work distraction nor have a negative effect on patient care. Yet generational differences exist related to the presence of these devices in providing patient care.
CONCLUSIONS: Access to personal communication devices, while at work, is an expectation. The reasons for accessing these devices, and the perception that these devices have a negative impact on work performance, should be included when developing workplace policies.