Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 23, 2026

Evidence-based Knowledge Synthesis and Hypothesis Validation: Navigating Biomedical Knowledge Bases via Explainable AI and Agentic Systems
Published on: June 13, 2025
Knowledge acquisition, synthesis, and validation: a model for decision support systems
Eileen S O'Neill1, Nancy M Dluhy, Paul J Fortier
1College of Nursing, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, North Dartmouth, Massachusetts 02747-2300, USA. eoneill@verizon.net
Background:
Decision tools such as clinical decision support systems must be built on a solid foundation of nursing knowledge. However, current methods to determine the best evidence do not include a broad range of knowledge sources. As clinical decision support systems will be designed to assist nurses when making critical decisions, methods need to be devised to glean the best possible knowledge.
Aims:
This paper presents a comprehensive knowledge development process to develop a nursing clinical decision support system.
Discussion:
The Nurse Computer Decision Support Project (N-CODES) is developing a prototype for a prospective decision support system. The prototype is being constructed on rules and cases generated by the best available evidence. To accommodate the range of decisions made in practice, different types of evidence are necessary. The process incorporates procedures to uncover, evaluate, and assimilate information to develop the knowledge domain for a clinical decision support systems. Both formal and practice-based knowledge are included. The model contains several innovative approaches including the use of clinical experts and a network of practicing clinicians.
Conclusion:
These strategies will assist scientists and practitioners interested in determining the best evidence to support clinical decision support systems.
Related Concept Videos
Decision Making: Traditional Method
First, a specific claim about the population parameter is decided based on the research question and is stated in a simple form. Further, an opposing statement to this claim is also stated. These statements can act as null and alternative hypotheses, out of which a null hypothesis would be a...
Data Validation
Nursing assessment guides are generally based on holistic models rather than medical...
Decision Making: P-value Method
First, a specific claim about the population parameter is proposed. The claim is based on the research question and is stated in a simple form. Further, an opposing statement to the claim is also stated. These statements can act as null and alternative hypotheses: a null hypothesis would be a neutral statement while the alternative hypothesis can have a...
Mathematical Modeling: Problem Solving