Nurses’ Perceptions of a Novel Health Information Technology: A Qualitative Study in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of a novel health information technology (HIT), a large customizable interactive monitor (LCIM), implemented in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Specifically, we explored nurses’ perceptions of this novel HIT application and its perceived effect on family engagement. We used a qualitative research design to collect and analyze data from 55 PICU nurses in seven focus groups. A trained moderator followed a semi-structured discussion guide with questions related to perceptions, attitudes, and care team interactions with the LCIM. Groups were audio-recorded, transcribed, and coded using content analysis procedure. Six major themes emerged from the nurse focus groups, which include familiarity and use routines, positive perceptions with the LCIM, negative perceptions with the LCIM, privacy, training, and suggestions for improvement. Insights into nurses’ perceptions of the LCIM have the potential to improve family-centered care.