Evaluation of Knowledge and Attitude of Nurses to Information Technology on Nursing Care Delivery in General Hospital Odan Lagos State, Nigeria
Chapter One
Objectives of the Study
Main Objective
The main objective of this study was to evaluate the knowledge and attitude of nurses towards information technology on nursing care delivery in General Hospital Odan, Lagos State, Nigeria.
Specific Objectives
- To assess the level of knowledge among nurses regarding information technology tools and applications used in nursing care delivery.
- To evaluate the attitudes of nurses towards the use of information technology in their professional practice.
- To identify the challenges and barriers that nurses face in adopting and utilising information technology in nursing care delivery.
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
Introduction
This chapter provides a comprehensive review of the literature on the integration of information technology (IT) in nursing. It underscores the transformative role IT plays in enhancing patient care, improving record-keeping, and facilitating communication within healthcare settings. The review aims to highlight key concepts, theoretical frameworks, and empirical findings related to IT adoption among nurses. Structured to cover conceptual reviews, theoretical perspectives, and empirical studies, the chapter seeks to identify gaps in existing research, particularly within Nigerian healthcare contexts, to guide future investigations and inform best practices in IT utilization in nursing care.
Conceptual Review
Information Technology in Healthcare
Information Technology (IT) in healthcare encompasses a wide range of tools and systems designed to improve the quality, efficiency, and effectiveness of medical care. IT in healthcare refers to the use of electronic systems and technology to manage and exchange health information, support clinical decisions, and streamline healthcare delivery processes (Geneviève Rouleau et al., 2015). This definition highlights IT’s role in transforming healthcare practices by integrating various technologies into the clinical and administrative workflows of healthcare facilities.
A fundamental component of IT in healthcare is the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system, which centralizes patient data into a digital format accessible by authorized healthcare providers (Akeredolu et al., 2023). EHRs facilitate accurate record-keeping, reduce medical errors, and enhance continuity of care by allowing for real-time updates and access to comprehensive patient histories (Ibode & Olamigoke, 2018). The widespread adoption of EHRs has been a significant step towards improving patient outcomes and operational efficiency in healthcare settings.
Telemedicine is another pivotal IT tool that enables remote consultations between healthcare providers and patients, overcoming geographical barriers and improving access to care (Nguyen et al., 2022). Through telemedicine, patients can receive consultations and follow-up care from the comfort of their homes, which is particularly beneficial in areas with limited access to healthcare facilities (Adesuyi et al., 2020). This technology also supports the management of chronic conditions by providing ongoing monitoring and virtual check-ups.
Clinical Decision Support Systems (CDSS) represent an advanced IT tool that assists healthcare providers in making informed clinical decisions by analyzing patient data and providing evidence-based recommendations (Asah, 2023). CDSS integrates with EHRs to offer real-time alerts and reminders about potential issues such as drug interactions, allergies, and deviations from clinical guidelines, thus enhancing the accuracy of clinical decisions (Seboka et al., 2021). The use of CDSS has been shown to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient safety by leveraging data analytics to support clinical judgment.
IT Literacy Among Nurses
IT literacy among nurses refers to the proficiency and capability of nursing professionals to effectively use information technology tools and systems in their practice. It encompasses understanding and skills related to operating electronic health records (EHRs), utilizing clinical decision support systems (CDSS), and engaging in telemedicine (Nguyen et al., 2022). IT literacy is critical in nursing as it directly impacts the quality of patient care, the efficiency of clinical workflows, and the overall effectiveness of healthcare delivery (Geneviève Rouleau et al., 2015).
The importance of IT literacy in nursing cannot be overstated. With the increasing integration of technology into healthcare, nurses must be adept at using IT systems to ensure accurate documentation, facilitate effective communication, and make informed clinical decisions (Akeredolu et al., 2023). High levels of IT literacy enable nurses to manage patient information efficiently, engage in evidence-based practice, and adapt to evolving technological advancements, which ultimately enhances patient outcomes and operational efficiency (Ibode & Olamigoke, 2018).
Several factors influence IT literacy among nurses. One key factor is the level of formal education and training provided in IT skills during nursing education (Adesuyi et al., 2020). Comprehensive training programs that incorporate IT competencies can significantly improve nurses’ confidence and ability to use technology effectively (Harriman & Mtshali, 2019). Additionally, ongoing professional development and access to continuous education opportunities play a vital role in maintaining and enhancing IT literacy among practising nurses (Sharma et al., 2018).
CHAPTER THREE
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Introduction
This chapter delineates the research methodology employed to investigate the knowledge and attitudes of nurses towards information technology (IT) at General Hospital Odan, Lagos State, Nigeria. The study aims to assess the current state of IT adoption among nurses and identify factors influencing their engagement with IT tools. A robust methodology ensures that the findings are reliable and valid, offering meaningful insights into the integration of IT in nursing practice (Saunders, Lewis, & Thornhill, 2019).
Study Area/Setting
The research was conducted at General Hospital Odan, situated in Lagos State, Nigeria. This public healthcare facility was selected due to its significant role in the region’s healthcare system and its diverse nursing staff. The setting is relevant as it provides a comprehensive view of IT adoption challenges and opportunities in a major urban hospital environment, which is crucial for understanding the broader implications of IT integration in similar Nigerian healthcare settings (Bell, Bryman, & Harley, 2019)..
Study Population and Unit
The target population for this study constituted 171 registered nurses working at General Hospital Odan. Inclusion criteria required participants to be active nurses with at least six months of experience. Nurses on extended leave or in non-clinical roles were excluded to ensure that the study focused on those directly engaged in patient care and IT use (Frankfort-Nachmias, Nachmias, & DeWaard, 2021).
CHAPTER FOUR
RESULTS
Demographic Distribution of Respondents
CHAPTER FIVE
DISCUSSION
This chapter discusses the results of the study on the impact of information technology (IT) on nursing practice, integrating findings from the data with existing literature and previous studies. The discussion highlights how the results align with or diverge from what is known in the field, considers the implications for policy and practice, and identifies contributions to existing knowledge. Additionally, it addresses the limitations of the study.
CHAPTER SIX
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
This chapter presents the key conclusions drawn from the study on the impact of information technology (IT) on nursing practice, along with specific recommendations for improving IT integration in healthcare settings. The conclusions and recommendations are based on the objectives set out in the dissertation and the findings discussed in the previous chapters.
Conclusion Based on Key Findings
- Knowledge of IT Tools: The study found that nurses generally possess a substantial level of knowledge regarding IT tools and applications used in nursing care delivery. This high level of knowledge indicates that nurses are equipped with the necessary theoretical understanding of IT tools. However, possessing knowledge alone does not guarantee effective application in practice. The results suggest that while nurses know about IT tools, practical experience and application are crucial for leveraging this knowledge effectively.
- Attitudes Towards IT: Nurses’ attitudes towards the use of IT in their professional practice were predominantly positive. Positive attitudes are essential for fostering the adoption and effective use of IT tools. However, favorable attitudes alone are insufficient if not supported by adequate training and resources. The study underscores the importance of translating positive attitudes into effective practice through supportive measures.
- Challenges and Barriers: Significant barriers to the effective use of IT tools were identified, including lack of access to resources, insufficient technical support, and time constraints. These challenges align with common issues reported in similar studies and highlight the need for systemic changes to facilitate IT integration. Addressing these barriers is crucial for improving the effectiveness of IT tools in nursing practice.
- Training and Support: The study revealed that while nurses have received some training on IT tools, there is a need for more comprehensive and ongoing training programs. Inadequate training can hinder the effective use of IT tools, making it essential to develop robust training programs that offer both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
- Proficiency and Comfort: The findings indicate that nurses are generally proficient in using IT tools for documentation and record-keeping. However, some nurses still face challenges with complex IT systems and require additional support. Ensuring that all nurses feel comfortable and confident using IT tools is important for enhancing overall IT integration in healthcare settings.
Recommendations Based on Findings
- Enhance Training Programs: Develop and implement comprehensive training programs that focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical application of IT tools. Training should be continuous and integrated into regular professional development to ensure that nurses stay current with technological advancements.
- Improve Resource Access: Allocate resources to ensure that all nursing professionals have access to the necessary IT tools and technologies. This includes investing in up-to-date equipment and providing adequate technical support to address issues promptly.
- Address Time Constraints: Implement strategies to alleviate time constraints that hinder the effective use of IT tools. This may involve adjusting workloads, providing dedicated time for IT training, and streamlining administrative processes to reduce time pressures on nursing staff.
- Strengthen Technical Support: Establish a robust technical support system to assist nurses with IT-related issues. This support should be readily available and responsive to ensure that technical difficulties do not impede the use of IT tools in patient care.
- Foster a Positive IT Culture: Encourage a culture that values IT in nursing practice by highlighting its benefits and providing incentives for effective use. Creating an environment where IT tools are seen as integral to improving patient care can help sustain positive attitudes and promote widespread adoption.
- Monitor and Evaluate: Regularly assess the effectiveness of IT tools and training programs through feedback from nursing staff and performance metrics. Continuous evaluation will help identify areas for improvement and ensure that IT integration remains effective and aligned with healthcare goals.
References
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