Examining Perceptions of Computerized Physician Order Entry in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Medical Technology Implementation
• Neonatal Care

Background:

• Computerized Provider Order Entry (CPOE) has transformative potential in healthcare.
• CPOE implementation in adult settings is documented, but less is known about its use in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs).
• Understanding clinician perceptions of CPOE in the NICU is essential for successful integration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate clinician perceptions before and after CPOE implementation in a pediatric hospital's NICU.
• To assess the impact of CPOE on patient care delivery, system implementation, and job satisfaction.
• To identify specific concerns of nurses and physicians regarding CPOE in the NICU setting.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was administered to NICU clinicians pre- and post-CPOE implementation.
• Surveys assessed perceptions of CPOE's effect on patient care, implementation process, and job satisfaction.
• Qualitative data on implementation concerns were collected, and responses were analyzed using the Chi-square test.

Main Results:

• Clinicians understood the rationale for CPOE but reported insufficient technical training.
• High expectations for job satisfaction and staff recruitment were noted, alongside persistent concerns about treatment delivery.
• Physicians showed more optimism than nurses, who worried about workflow alterations.

Conclusions:

• CPOE implementation in NICUs is a high-stakes process requiring meticulous execution to prevent patient harm.
• Managing diverse clinician expectations and technological comfort levels is vital for CPOE success.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration is key to optimizing CPOE functionality, workflow efficiency, and support for less tech-savvy staff.