Developing a computer program to assist the nursing process: phase I-from systems analysis to an expandable program

Area of Science:

• Nursing Informatics
• Health Information Technology
• Computer Science in Healthcare

Background:

• The nursing process is a foundational element of patient care delivery.
• Developing systematic approaches to nursing practice can enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• The integration of technology in nursing requires careful planning and evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a computer program to assist in the nursing process.
• To create a systems model for nursing care, focusing initially on integumentary functions.
• To evaluate the feasibility and utility of a nursing computer program through user feedback.

Main Methods:

• A three-stage project involving conceptualization, program development, and user trials.
• Stage I: Defined nursing and constructed a systems model.
• Stage II: Developed a computer program for data collection and nursing diagnoses (skin, mucous membranes, nails, hair).
• Stage III: Conducted initial trials and gathered feedback from nurses.

Main Results:

• The computer program successfully collected patient data and formulated nursing diagnoses for specific functional areas.
• Nurses participating in initial trials found the program to be time-intensive.
• Despite time concerns, nurses recognized the program's potential to improve patient care delivery.

Conclusions:

• The developed computer program serves as a foundational model for more comprehensive nursing informatics tools.
• Further modifications are needed to optimize the program's efficiency and user experience.
• The study highlights the potential of technology to support and enhance nursing practice, pending further development and refinement.