An Evaluation Study of Off-The-Shelf Patient Classification Systems
Abstract
This study was conducted to determine if commercially available, off- the-shelf patient classification systems (PCS) would meet the functional requirements for nursing's management information needs. Information about the systems was also considered in the development of other options for revising the Workload Management System for Nursing (WMSN). Approximately 89 potential sources were identified through lists in nursing administration and hospital automation .references. The majority of these were consultant or information systems companies. Information was provided by 59 of the sources. A 3-phase plan was developed to expedite identification of suitable systems using readily available information. Respectively, the objectives were to (1) identify and collect information on commercially available, off-the-shelf PCS's (2) organize pertinent information using an adapted evaluation model, and (3) identify PCS's meeting predetermined selection criteria. A data collection form was developed to guide the telephone interviews and written materials on PCS methodology were requested. Information was sorted using an adapted version of the content-input- process-product (CIPP) model. A decision matrix incorporating predetermined selection criteria identified suitable PCS's. The two systems identified for further corporate evaluation were Van Slyck and Medicus. The evaluation model used in this study provided a framework for information that had relevance to DoD. Very often, organizations begin testing systems without a clear understanding of their requirements. In addition, marketing information often overstate a system's capabilities and understate limitations. Conflicting definitions of common terms further complicates making comparisons.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA255973
Entities
People
- Jayne P. O'donnell
- Karen A. Seipp