Enhancing Student Engagement Through Technology: The Role of EHR Go in Nursing Education

As the new academic year begins, nursing students at Robert Morris University (RMU) are diving into their studies with a tool that sets them apart—EHR Go. EHR Go’s electronic health record platform is integrated into their curriculum to enhance learning and ensure students are well-prepared for the real-world demands of healthcare. The Rise Center at RMU uses EHR Go to provide hands-on experience and develop the practical skills essential for future nurses. 

Below, Nicole Szalla, DNP, RN, RISE Simulation Center Director at RMU, and Kristen Lutz, Simulation Education Specialist at the RISE Center at RMU, explain how EHR Go is making a difference in their programs. Located in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, RMU is known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning, and its nursing program is no exception. 

Integrating EHR Go into Nursing Curriculum: A Step-by-Step Approach 

At the RISE Center, EHR Go is more than just a tool; it's a cornerstone of nursing education. The platform is integrated into key courses such as Medical Surgical 1 and Medical Surgical 2, where students undergo comprehensive training over a 15-week period. 

Students begin their journey with prework, receiving patient charts and cases a week before their simulation courses. This preparatory phase allows them to familiarize themselves with patient information and develop initial care plans. As they enter the simulation labs, students continue working on these cases, applying their knowledge in a controlled, realistic setting. Post-simulation, they further engage with EHR Go by charting their actions and observations, fostering a complete learning loop from theory to practice. 

Kristen explains, “On simulation days, my role is to ensure everything is set up—from pre-briefing students on their objectives to reviewing patient charts and guiding them through hands-on activities. EHR Go is central throughout this process, providing a realistic and immersive experience for our students.” 

Enhancing Student Engagement and Learning Outcomes 

EHR Go has proven to be a game-changer for student engagement. By incorporating hands-on learning with technology, students are more invested in their education. The platform's user-friendly interface, coupled with features like charting and medication scanning, makes learning interactive and enjoyable. 

“Students love the hands-on aspect of EHR Go,” says Kristen. “It’s one thing to read about medication administration or patient charting, but it’s another to actually do it. The platform allows them to practice these essential skills in a safe environment, which excites them and enhances their learning experience.” 

This interactive approach not only boosts engagement but also improves retention of critical concepts. Students are not just passive recipients of information; they are active participants, navigating through realistic scenarios that mirror real-world clinical settings. The ability to engage directly with the content helps solidify their understanding and prepares them for the complexities of healthcare. 

Best Practices for Integrating EHR Go: Tips from Robert Morris University 

For institutions considering the integration of EHR Go into their curricula, The RISE Center at RMU offers some valuable advice: 

1. Start with the Basics: Don’t feel overwhelmed by the platform’s capabilities. Begin by utilizing the pre-built tools and resources that EHR Go provides. As you and your students become more comfortable, you can explore more advanced features and customize simulations to better fit your needs. 

1. Encourage Faculty Adoption: One of the challenges the RISE Center faced was getting all faculty on board with using EHR Go. Nicole emphasizes the importance of training and support, “Take the time to learn the platform and don’t be afraid to dive in. It’s an invaluable resource that, once mastered, can significantly enhance your teaching.” 

1. Create a Hands-On Learning Environment: Encourage students to explore and engage with the platform. The more they practice, the more confident they become. EHR Go is designed to simulate real-life scenarios, making it an excellent tool for developing clinical judgment and reasoning skills. 

The Impact of EHR Go: Real-World Readiness 

Since implementing EHR Go, the RISE Center at RMU has seen notable improvements in student performance and preparedness. The platform helps students gain exposure to electronic health records and the critical skills required for accurate charting and patient care. 

Kristen shares: “Before my role at the RISE Center, I worked as a hospital-based educator, and I saw many new nurses struggle with charting. EHR Go provides our students with early and consistent exposure to these essential skills, greatly improving their readiness for clinical roles.” 

The positive outcomes are not limited to just technical skills. The use of EHR Go also enhances students’ critical thinking and decision-making abilities, key components in delivering high-quality healthcare. Nicole adds, “The system’s realistic simulations tie everything together for students. They get a well-rounded experience that truly prepares them for what’s to come.” 

Improve student outcomes by partnering with EHR Go 

EHR Go is more than just a teaching tool at the RISE Center at RMU; it's a vital part of their educational philosophy, helping to bridge the gap between classroom learning and clinical practice. By embracing this technology, the RISE Center is equipping the next generation of nurses with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in a fast-paced, ever-evolving healthcare environment. 

As the school year kicks off, consider how your institution could benefit from integrating EHR Go into your curriculum. With its ability to enhance engagement, foster practical skills, and prepare students for real-world challenges, EHR Go is a powerful asset for any nursing program looking to make a lasting impact. Schedule a demo today to learn more about how EHR Go can transform your nursing education program and support the development of future healthcare professionals.