Informatics Nurse Test EHR Implementation and Optimization 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: During an EHR implementation, the 'go-live' stabilization period typically lasts:
- One day
- 2–4 weeks post-launch (Correct answer)
- One full year
- Until the next version upgrade
Correct answer: 2–4 weeks post-launch
The stabilization period typically spans 2–4 weeks after go-live and focuses on resolving workflow issues, training gaps, and system errors identified in live use.
Question 2: What does the term 'downtime procedures' refer to in EHR management?
- Planned maintenance windows for software updates
- Pre-established workflows for delivering safe care when the EHR is unavailable (Correct answer)
- Procedures for deleting outdated patient records
- Reducing system login times
Correct answer: Pre-established workflows for delivering safe care when the EHR is unavailable
Downtime procedures are documented paper-based or backup workflows that allow clinical operations to continue safely when the EHR system is inaccessible.
Question 3: Which approach to EHR implementation involves replacing the legacy system all at once across all departments simultaneously?
- Phased rollout
- Big bang implementation (Correct answer)
- Parallel running
- Pilot deployment
Correct answer: Big bang implementation
A big bang implementation deploys the new EHR system organization-wide on a single cutover date, retiring the legacy system simultaneously.
Question 4: An informatics nurse conducting a workflow analysis before EHR optimization should FIRST:
- Update the EHR configuration settings
- Observe and document current-state workflows to identify pain points (Correct answer)
- Train staff on the new workflows
- Submit a change request to the vendor
Correct answer: Observe and document current-state workflows to identify pain points
Observing and documenting current-state workflows is the essential first step to understanding what needs improvement before making any changes.
Question 5: In EHR implementation, 'super users' serve primarily as:
- System administrators with full database access
- Trained clinical staff who provide peer-level support and training on the unit (Correct answer)
- Vendor representatives on-site during go-live
- Compliance auditors reviewing system access logs
Correct answer: Trained clinical staff who provide peer-level support and training on the unit
Super users are clinical staff trained to a higher proficiency level who provide immediate peer support and first-line troubleshooting on their units during and after go-live.
Question 6: Which document outlines the agreed-upon services, performance benchmarks, and responsibilities between a healthcare organization and its EHR vendor?
- Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
- Service Level Agreement (SLA) (Correct answer)
- Business Associate Agreement (BAA)
- Data Sharing Agreement (DSA)
Correct answer: Service Level Agreement (SLA)
An SLA formally defines the expected service performance, uptime guarantees, response times, and remedies agreed upon by the healthcare organization and the EHR vendor.
Informatics Nurse Test EHR Implementation and Optimization 1
During an EHR implementation, the 'go-live' stabilization period typically lasts: