Strategic Planning for a Nursing Information System (NTS) in the Hospital Setting

As nursing departments become more involved in automation, strategic planning for computer applications gains importance. Making the switch from manual to automated systems requires an understanding and analysis of the present system. This knowledge allows participants to examine the current information processing routines in relation to how well they support departmental goals. Priorities for projects can be established and alternatives for more efficient and effective information management schemes can be considered. The development of a Nursing System Model to serve this purpose is described. The model provides an overview for planning and identifies data classes created or used in nursing, organized according to the processes which act upon the data during the accomplishment of work activities.