Effortlessness and Security: Nurses' Positive Experiences With Work-Related Information Technology Use

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Health Informatics
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Nurses' well-being is a growing concern, particularly regarding work-related information technology (IT) use.
• Limited understanding exists on IT factors contributing to nurses' positive work experiences and well-being.
• Research is needed to explore how to foster nurses' well-being through IT.

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand the appraisals and emotions central to nurses' positive experiences with IT at work.
• To identify specific IT-related factors that enhance nurses' job satisfaction and well-being.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving focus groups and semistructured interviews.
• 15 ward nurses from a large Swedish hospital participated.
• Data analyzed using process and causation coding.

Main Results:

• Key appraisals included easy goal accomplishment, task reduction, situational awareness, system mastery, reduced errors, and assured patient information access.
• These appraisals were linked to positive emotions: joy, relief, confidence, and relaxation.
• Effortlessness and security emerged as central to positive IT experiences for nurses.

Conclusions:

• Effortless and secure information technology use positively impacts nurses' well-being.
• Implementing IT features that promote effortlessness and security can enhance nurses' work experience.
• Healthcare organizations should prioritize IT design and practices that support nurses' well-being.