AST Guideline - Use of Mobile Information Technology in the Operating Room

10 B. CSTs should always comply with HDO policies regarding the use of mobile devices. By remaining focused on the patient, a CST can reduce distractions, errors, and inefficiencies when adhering to the MIT policy of the employer. Regulated use of mobile devices improves management of data security, patient privacy and patient satisfaction. 3. HDOs should establish policies addressing the use of mobile devices by patients and their family and friends in order to protect the privacy of other patients. A. Patients, family and friends may want to take photos or video recordings of their visits at the HDO. However, patients often share rooms and the photo or video recordings could inadvertently include images of the patient who is not part of the visitation. Additionally, images of patients in the hallway could unintentionally, be included in the photos or video recordings. B. The HDO will need to decide if it will allow the use of mobile devices inside the facility by patients and visitors. 50 1) Due to the challenge it would present to HCP in monitoring the use of mobile devices, it is recommended that HDOs create a policy that prohibits the use of mobile devices by patients and visitors while inside the HDO. 2) Upon admission, the HDO should have the patient sign and date a copy of the policy that is kept in the patient’s file in addition to informing the patient through the HDO’s HIPAA privacy notice. 8 Visitors should also be provided the written picture-taking policy. The policy should inform the patient and visitors that the facility has the right to delete images that were acquired without the appropriate consent or permission. 3) The HDO should display signage with information about the policy throughout the facility. The display should include a graphic symbol such as an ‘X’ over the drawing of a person talking on a cell phone and/or taking a photo. 4) If the facility allows photos to be taken patients and visitors will need to be educated about the privacy issues of other patients and employees. The facility policy should require the patient and/or visitor to obtain the permission of another patient, employee, medical staff, or volunteer who may appear in the photograph in order to respect the privacy of others. 8 Individuals must be prohibited from taking photographs that include medical devices that display patient data. 5) The policy should authorize HDO staff to address patients and visitors using mobile devices while inside the facility.