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CANCELED - The Effect of Scale of Technology Updates on Workflow Disruptions in Clinical Settings : A Scoping Review
DescriptionTechnology updates in healthcare settings, ranging from minor software patches to major system-wide changes, frequently disrupt clinical workflows. However, the relationship between these updates' scale and workflow disruptions' severity remains poorly understood. This scoping review analyzes 25 studies from 2010 to 2024, categorizing updates into major, moderate, and minor scales using a structured 5-variable framework. Findings reveal that major updates, such as electronic health record (EHR) migrations, cause prolonged disruptions but offer long-term safety improvements. Moderate updates, like barcode medication administration (BCMA) integration, increase task-switching and reliance on workarounds, while minor updates, although low in individual impact, can cumulatively strain workflows and trigger emergency responses when poorly managed. Adaptation strategies vary by scale, with major updates requiring phased rollouts and extensive training, while moderate and minor updates benefit from IT support and rapid feedback mechanisms. Despite progress, significant research gaps remain, particularly in standardizing disruption assessments, evaluating financial and psychological impacts, and addressing rural healthcare settings. This review highlights the need for more nuanced strategies that balance technological innovation with workflow resilience to ensure optimal outcomes for clinicians and patients.