Security and legal issues associated with the computerized patient record.

The advances in electronic technology in the form of increased processing power, the ability to computerize many aspects of a patient's record, and the emergence of document imaging systems and telemedicine have enhanced health care professionals ability to more accurately document care. However, with this augmentation comes issues in liability and security of which professionals should be aware. This article discusses some of these issues from the viewpoint of the perioperative nurse.