Computerized decision support system and decision quality of nurses - doi: 10.4025/cienccuidsaude.v11i5.17085

Abstract

This study investigates whether there is a difference in the decision quality when Operating Room nurses use a computerized decision support system (CDSS) based on normative decision modeling as well as nurses' confidence in making decisions based on their own judgement and aided by a CDSS called Lightyear.  Decision quality was measured as agreement with the decisions of a panel of experts in Operating Room nursing. A post-test quasi experimental design was used, with a non-random convenience sample of nurses randomly assigned into one control (unaided) and one experimental group (computerized decision support system). Of this study did not demonstrate a significant difference in decision quality between the control and experimental group.  No relationship was  found between demographic variables and quality of decision.  Subjects in the control group presented a higher degree of decision confidence. Subjects in the experimental group, who had a higher score in the correct. response score showed a lower degree of confidence when making decisions with Lightyear. This study raises important methodological considerations about the need of further studies that evaluate the use of CDSS based on normative modeling where subjects might be allowed to evaluate its effectiveness using the software in its full potential.