Affirming Proposed Variable Relationship Patterns in a Conceptual Nursing Model by Converting Qualitative Data to Causal Loop Diagrams

Even with decades of use, there is minimal understanding about the impact that the use of Health Information Technology has on nursing work and workarounds. Reliance on quantitative methods has to some degree constrained our understanding by viewing phenomena from only one perspective. This multimethods research used qualitative data to develop causal loop diagrams and inform a Health Information Technology Workaround model. This approach can play an important role in generating an improved understanding of nursing clinical workflow and workarounds. This research strategy has not been identified in nursing literature to date, but perhaps will encourage future exploration and paradigm crossing. Investigating the use of causal loop diagrams and systems modelling in nursing can create an opportunity to enrich our insights and encourage scientific dialogue about the complexity of clinical workflow and the integration of Health Information Technology.