Use of Handheld Phones and Perceived Efficacy of Nurses

Use of Handheld Phones and Perceived Efficacy of Nurses
Introduction
Specific Aim
           This study aims to fill current knowledge gaps in the existing literature by comprehensively examining both sides of the issue using the mixed methods research design. The study aims to research the benefits and challenges of using personal electronic devices by registered nurses at hospitals. This research will focus on the advantages of using mobile phones to access patient information among nurses and the disadvantages of using personal electronic devices to facilitate patient care. 
Background
           Handheld devices have not only become an integral part of human life. It plays a huge role, not only for personal consumption and satisfaction but even for professional and industrial purposes, to name a few. Accordingly, this includes using personal handheld devices by healthcare practitioners in the hospital setting. 
           However, similar to any kind of technology, the use of personal devices may have its own advantages in disadvantages. Most debates would revolve around the tendency of personal devices to be misused during work hours, thereby increasing the risks of procrastination, tardiness, and lack of attention, to name a few (Chase et al., 2018). Some studies even highlight some legal and ethical risks that mobile phone use may entail, including violating the patient’s right to privacy (Greer, 2019).         
In contrast, other studies suggest the beneficial relationship between the use of personal devices and efficacy in the provision of healthcare services. Most of the arguments from this side suggest that mobile phones are essential for improving care not only for communication but also for indirect effects such as reducing risks of work burnout and increasing social support (Liu & Aungsuroch, 2019). 
While there is a clear answer to this debate, the author of this article believes that understanding how to manage phone use allows healthcare managers to balance and provide strategic guidelines for using these personal devices and even increase the efficacy of the workplace’s setting. However, considering the complexity of the dynamics of both the internal and external factors relating to such usage, broadening the scope and appreciation of these factors is also essential to fully understand the relationship between these two. 
Chapter II
Theoretical Framework
In line with this, the following shows the conceptual framework between the use of personal devices and the efficacy (or at least perceived efficacy) of healthcare professionals.
Figure 1
Conceptual Map or Conceptual Framework using the Theory of Self Care in Nursing
Perceived EfficacyUse of Personal Devices (Frequency and Usage type)Internal Factors(i.e., perception of confidence)External Factors(i.e., workplace protocols)Perceived EfficacyUse of Personal Devices (Frequency and Usage type)Internal Factors(i.e., perception of confidence)External Factors(i.e., workplace protocols)
  The conceptual framework provided above focuses on the various aspects of the researc...