Purpose Statement

The Monitor Import feature in ePCR documentation allows EMS personnel to seamlessly integrate vital signs, waveforms, and device data directly from patient monitoring equipment into electronic Patient Care Reports. This functionality eliminates manual data entry, reduces transcription errors, and ensures accurate documentation of patient monitoring information with precise timestamps and comprehensive vital sign measurements.

Background Information

Monitor Import capability bridges the gap between field monitoring equipment and electronic documentation systems by automatically transferring patient care data from medical devices into ePCRs. This feature supports various monitoring devices and can import multiple types of data including vital signs measurements, 12-lead ECGs, monitor strips, waveforms, and case summaries. The system maintains data integrity by preserving original timestamps and device-specific information while organizing imported data into appropriate sections within the ePCR for streamlined documentation workflows. This functionality is particularly valuable for maintaining accurate patient care records and supporting clinical decision-making with precise, device-captured data.

Required Permissions

The following permission are necessary to access and configure EMS Setup:

Video

Best Practices

Do's

• Import monitor data immediately after patient care to ensure data availability and prevent device memory limitations
• Use appropriate filters to narrow down monitor data selection and improve workflow efficiency
• Review all imported data for accuracy and completeness before finalizing the ePCR
• Verify that timestamps align with actual patient care events and clinical interventions
• Import both vital signs and device data when available to provide comprehensive patient monitoring documentation
• Use the time interval filter to focus on clinically relevant monitoring periods
• Document any discrepancies between imported data and clinical observations in narrative sections

Don'ts

• Don't import monitor data without reviewing it for clinical accuracy and relevance
• Don't rely solely on imported data without correlating it with clinical assessment findings
• Don't ignore timestamp discrepancies that may indicate device synchronization issues
• Don't import excessive amounts of monitoring data that may not be clinically significant
• Don't forget to manually add vital signs that were not captured by monitoring equipment
• Don't assume all monitoring equipment data will import successfully without verification
• Don't delete imported monitor data without careful consideration of its clinical value

Tips & Recommendations

• Coordinate with medical device manufacturers to ensure proper integration compatibility
• Establish protocols for handling monitor import failures or incomplete data transfers
• Train staff on interpreting imported waveforms and understanding device-specific data formats
• Use filter options strategically to locate specific monitoring sessions quickly
• Consider importing data in chronological order to maintain logical documentation flow
• Regularly verify that monitoring equipment timestamps are synchronized with system time
• Develop backup documentation procedures for situations where monitor import is unavailable

Troubleshooting & FAQs

Q: The Monitor Import button is not visible in my ePCR. What could be the issue?
A: Verify that you have the proper permissions (EMS Care Report and Create EMS Care Report) and that the ePCR is open in editing mode. The monitor import feature may also need to be enabled in your system configuration.

Q: No monitor data appears in the import window despite recent patient care. Why might this happen?
A: Check that the monitoring equipment is properly connected to the system and that data synchronization is functioning. Verify the date range filters aren't too restrictive, and confirm that the monitoring device has stored data for the specified time period.

Q: Imported vital signs show incorrect timestamps. How can I resolve this?
A: Verify that the monitoring equipment's internal clock is synchronized with the ePCR system time. Contact your IT administrator to ensure proper time synchronization between devices and the documentation system.

Q: Some monitor events are missing from the import list. What should I check?
A: Confirm that the time interval filter isn't excluding relevant events. Clear the filter or expand the time range to view all available monitoring data. Also verify that the monitoring equipment successfully recorded the events during patient care.

Q: Can I edit or modify imported monitor data after it's been added to the ePCR?
A: Yes, you can edit individual imported events by clicking the pencil icon next to each entry. You can also delete imported events using the trash can icon and manually add additional vital signs using the Add icon.

Q: The import process fails or times out. What troubleshooting steps should I take?
A: Check your network connection and ensure the monitoring equipment is properly connected to the system. Try importing smaller selections of data or contact technical support if the issue persists. Verify that the monitoring device has sufficient memory and isn't experiencing hardware issues.

Related Articles

1. ePCR: Create and Document without Internet Connection
   
2. Setting up the ePCR - Devices
   
3. Completing an ePCR - 4. Vital Signs