Warning: This UPMC Shift-Select Trick Might Be Too Powerful
Warning: This UPMC Shift-Select Trick Might Be Too Powerful
UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center) employees often find themselves juggling multiple systems and applications throughout their workday. Efficiency is key, and for those who haven't discovered it yet, a little-known keyboard shortcut within the UPMC system offers a level of productivity enhancement that borders on…well, powerful. This post explores this “Shift-Select” trick, its capabilities, and some important considerations before you unleash its full potential.
The trick revolves around the often-overlooked Shift + Click functionality within various UPMC applications, particularly those involving patient records, scheduling, and communications. While the exact implementation might vary slightly depending on the specific application (MyChart, Epic, etc.), the core principle remains consistent: Shift + clicking selects multiple items sequentially.
Instead of painstakingly clicking each individual patient record, appointment, or message, you can significantly reduce your workload. Simply click on the first item, hold down the Shift key, and then click on the last item in the desired sequence. Instantly, everything in between is selected. This is transformative for tasks like:
- Batch processing of patient records: Need to review lab results for a series of patients? Shift-Select makes it a breeze.
- Efficient appointment scheduling: Selecting multiple time slots for appointments becomes significantly faster.
- Bulk messaging or communication: Send updates or reminders to a group of patients with minimal effort.
- Data analysis and reporting: Quickly selecting relevant data points for analysis and reporting can save hours of work.
But be warned! This power comes with responsibility. Improper use of Shift-Select can lead to accidental selection of incorrect data, potentially resulting in errors or unintended actions. Always double-check your selections before proceeding with any action, particularly those with irreversible consequences. Consider the following precautions:
- Careful attention to detail: Ensure you're selecting the correct range of items. A single misplaced click can lead to significant issues.
- Understanding application limitations: Not all UPMC applications support this feature equally. Experiment carefully and understand its limitations within each system.
- Regular data backups: Good practice dictates regular backups, especially when dealing with large-scale data selections and manipulations.
The UPMC Shift-Select trick can be a game-changer for productivity, boosting efficiency and reducing workload significantly. However, mastering this power requires careful execution and a keen awareness of its potential pitfalls. Use it wisely, and you'll reap the benefits; misuse it, and you might find yourself needing more time to rectify the errors. So, go ahead and unlock this productivity secret, but remember to proceed with caution! This powerful tool is only as effective as the user wielding it responsibly. Remember to consult your UPMC IT department for specific instructions related to your applications.