Using Cognitive Load Theory to Improve Posthospitalization Follow-Up Visits

Background and Significance

Cognitive load theory states humans have limited capacity for information processing via working memory.[1] [2] As health care complexity increases, processing each patient medical record is now a considerable challenge. Working memory can be overwhelmed and information can be lost, impacting patient safety. Wasting working memory on inefficient information presentation carries high risk. Providers experiencing high cognitive load are hypothesized to provide poorer care for patients and be at higher risk of providing care influenced by stereotypes and bias.[3] The period after hospital discharge is a particularly high-risk period for patients, and studies have shown deficiencies in documentation of hospitalizations, thus adding to the challenges of providers caring for these patients.[4] [5] Electronic health record (EHR) interfaces designed based on information needs of intensive care physicians demonstrated decreased task load, time to completion, and cognitive errors.[6] Strengthening this end user-based design by applying the science of cognitive load theory may further improve providers' ability to process information, reducing potential errors and fatigue.[6] [7] [8] [9]

Protection of Human and Animal Subjects

All human subject involvement of this study was approved by the local IRB.

• References

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