Embedding new technologies in practice - a normalization process theory study of point of care testing

Area of Science:

• Clinical Diagnostics
• Health Services Research
• Ambulatory Care

Background:

• Point of care diagnostic technologies offer rapid results for acute care outside hospitals.
• Widespread adoption of point of care testing (POCT) is limited despite its potential.
• Understanding POCT integration into routine practice is crucial for future implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the integration of POCT in a setting where it is normalized.
• To identify factors facilitating and hindering POCT adoption.
• To inform future implementation strategies for POCT.

Main Methods:

• A single case study of a community-based ambulatory care unit using POCT routinely.
• Focused ethnography including non-participant observation and semi-structured interviews.
• Thematic analysis guided by Normalization Process Theory.

Main Results:

• Staff shared a strong understanding of POCT's purpose and value, deeming it integral to unit function.
• Team organization and leadership facilitated effective POCT implementation and trust.
• Despite some barriers like trust in accuracy and usability, strong perceived value drove embedding of POCT.

Conclusions:

• Successful POCT adoption relies on strong perceived value and effective team integration.
• This case study provides insights into embedding new diagnostic technologies into practice.
• Understanding normalization processes is key to realizing the potential of POCT to transform care delivery.