A multi-site collective case study of nurses' experiences with the Nova Scotia hospital Information System

This qualitative study explored nurses' experiences with the Nova Scotia hospital Information System (NShIS). As an initiative of the Nova Scotia Health Department, the NShIS involved the installation of a computer information system in hospitals across eight District Health Authorities. Through a collective case study approach that was influenced by Critical Social Theory principles, the research was conducted in three facilities of two Districts. Data collection methods included interviews, participant observations during the interviews, and review of facility documents. Data also originated from observations during facility tours and discussion with personnel. Analysis of the data revealed that themes of apprehension, time constraints, support, empowerment efforts, and accountability emerged in nurses' experiences. The findings suggest that astute planning is key to implementing a computerized system and to sustaining the change on an ongoing basis. The lessons learned from this research have implications for nurses in administrative, education, clinical, and research roles.