Are there alternatives to using whiteboards in hospitals? The answer is yes, but none have proven themselves to be as effective, both in cost and performance, as custom whiteboards. Here are a few other options and why they pale in comparison to whiteboards.
Whiteboard paint is typically a high-gloss paint that has an epoxy additive that, when dry, creates a surface that is similar to a whiteboard. While whiteboard paint is the most economical option facilities can choose, it's also the lowest quality. Even the most high-end whiteboard paint will not perform anywhere near as well as the lowest end whiteboard, much less the quality, commercial-grade whiteboards facilities will need to effectively communicate with patients.
There are many disadvantages to using whiteboard paint:
As we surge forward in time, some interactive whiteboards have hit the market, yet most facilities still prefer a classic dry erase board or glass whiteboard for their patient rooms, nursing stations and other locations throughout the hospital. This is because, despite their technological prowess, there are many disadvantages to using electronic interactive whiteboards:
While this is absolutely the cheapest option, facilities will also lose out on all the benefits of installing whiteboards. Research has shown that whiteboards improve patient communication, increase efficiency for nurses and increase HCAHPS scores (see more studies here). There is no reason to forgo the use of whiteboards in patient rooms, they are small, unobtrusive, affordable and very effective tools both patients and providers benefit from.
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