Background of the Study
The integration of technology in healthcare settings has transformed clinical practices globally, with one of the most notable advancements being the implementation of Electronic Medical Records (EMRs). EMRs are digital versions of patients' paper charts, offering enhanced efficiency, accuracy, and accessibility in managing patient data (Wright et al., 2024). The use of EMRs in healthcare institutions has become standard practice, influencing not only the delivery of care but also the education and training of healthcare professionals, including nursing students. In developing countries like Nigeria, there is a growing recognition of the importance of incorporating technology into healthcare education to improve the competency and preparedness of future healthcare providers (Akinleye & Shokunbi, 2023).
Nursing education has been undergoing significant reforms to keep pace with technological advancements. A critical aspect of this change is the integration of EMRs into nursing training programs. The Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Keffi, Nigeria, represents an important context for examining the influence of EMRs on nursing students' practical knowledge and skills. Nursing students are increasingly expected to work with these digital systems during their clinical placements, where they are introduced to real-world patient data management (Okafor & Eze, 2024). The exposure to EMRs in clinical practice not only enhances students’ technical skills but also fosters their ability to make evidence-based decisions, thus improving patient care outcomes (Ola & Okunola, 2023).
Despite these potential benefits, the extent to which EMRs are integrated into nursing education at FMC Keffi has not been comprehensively examined. Some studies suggest that while technology adoption in healthcare is rising, its full potential for transforming nursing education has yet to be realized in many Nigerian medical centers (Adebola et al., 2025). The current study, therefore, seeks to fill this gap by investigating the role of EMRs in the training of nursing students at FMC Keffi, focusing on how this technology influences their learning experiences and clinical competencies.
Statement of the Problem
Although the adoption of EMRs is gaining momentum in Nigerian healthcare institutions, there is a lack of empirical research regarding their specific impact on nursing students' education. Nursing students are being exposed to these systems during their clinical training, but it remains unclear whether this exposure improves their clinical competency or enhances their understanding of patient data management. The Federal Medical Centre, Keffi, represents a unique case, where EMR systems have been implemented, yet the effects on nursing education and students’ clinical performance have not been rigorously evaluated. This study seeks to investigate whether the use of EMRs in clinical training environments contributes positively to nursing students’ knowledge, skills, and preparedness for practice. It is essential to determine how nursing students perceive EMRs and whether these systems effectively support their learning process, especially in a context where healthcare resources may be limited. The lack of studies on this subject leaves a significant knowledge gap, hindering the development of evidence-based recommendations for improving nursing education through technological integration.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nursing students undergoing clinical training at the Federal Medical Centre in Keffi, Nigeria. The research will explore their experiences, perceptions, and competencies with regard to the use of EMRs in clinical settings. The study will be limited to nursing students in their final year of training, as they are expected to have extensive exposure to EMRs. It is important to note that this study will not include other healthcare professionals or students in different educational settings. Additionally, the study’s findings may be limited by the willingness of students and faculty to participate, and any technological barriers at the healthcare facility that may influence the use of EMRs.
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