Coupling the N-CODES system with actual nurse decision-making

Nurses must be involved in the development and testing of clinical decision support systems if systems that fit into the actual clinical decision-making process and the flow of practice are to be designed. This article discusses the first trial of N-CODES, the Nurse Decision Support System. This system is designed to assist nurses, particularly novices, to make clinical decisions. The adequacy of the theoretical framework and selected aspects of the knowledge base were examined. Twelve nurses participated. Results indicated that revision of the theoretical framework is necessary if it is to be a fair representation of nurse's decision-making. The sequencing of information seems appropriate but the process of developing the knowledge base must be made more transparent to nurse users. After modifications, the next trial will test actual clinical use.