Nurses' Perception of Challenges in the Use of an Electronic Nursing Documentation System

This qualitative study was based on the Technology Acceptance Model and conducted through directed content analysis to explore perceptions of nurses in Iran of the challenges of using an electronic documentation system. Participants were selected through purposive sampling via interview from a teaching hospital in western Iran. Data were analyzed using MAXQDA 10. Data consistency was ensured through validation methods and by the researcher's prolonged engagement in the subject. Twelve codes, four subcategories, and two main categories ("perceived usefulness" and "perceived difficulty") emerged from the analysis of the data based on the Technology Acceptance Model. "Perceived usefulness" consisted of the subcategories "subjective norms" and "experienced benefits"; and "perceived difficulty" contained the subcategories "rationalization" as well as "challenges in accepting change." According to the Technology Acceptance Model, to promote acceptance of this system, the benefits of usage should be highlighted. The biggest hurdle to acceptance is familiarity and comfort with previous methods.