Smarter Week

How to automate it

How to automate “write patient instructions and education handouts”

Here is the best way to spend less time on this, best first. Each comes with steps you can follow today and, for AI fixes, a prompt to copy.

20 min
typically, a few times a week
55%
of the time can be automated
Easy
to set up

Fix 1 of 1

AI

Have AI write patient instructions at an easy reading level

AI writes clear handouts and instructions at a 6th-grade reading level, in other languages if needed. Keep patient details out, or use your EHR's approved AI.

Typically saves about 50% of the time5 min to set up
  1. 1Decide the topic and what the patient must do.
  2. 2Use the prompt below in an approved AI tool. Do not include names, dates of birth or other identifiers unless the tool is BAA-covered.
  3. 3Check every medical fact against your guidelines.
  4. 4Save good versions as templates in the EHR so you only do this once.
Prompt to copy
Write patient instructions about [TOPIC] for a patient who [SITUATION, e.g. is going home after...]. Reading level: 6th grade. Include: what to do, what not to do, medicines as I list them [MEDICINES AND DOSES], warning signs and when to call [PHONE] or go to the ER. Use short sentences and bullet points. Do not add medical advice I did not give; mark anything to check as [CHECK]. Then translate it into [LANGUAGE] if needed.

Tools: Your EHR's approved AI · ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or Microsoft Copilot (no patient details)

Who does this task

Roles in our library that list this as one of their common tasks. Each guide covers the rest of that role’s week.

HourLeak · the 8-minute work audit

How many hours does this cost you?

The free 8-minute check works out where your week goes and gives you your top fixes. The team scan does the same for everyone and adds it up, so you know which leaks to fix first.

Answers are anonymous. Leaders only see team totals.

Other common tasks for Nurses