Actualizing theory to practice: preparing for computerized information system research on a critical care unit

Area of Science:

• Nursing Informatics
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Implementing computerized information systems in critical care units necessitates rigorous research preparation.
• Actualizing Theory offers a framework for aligning theoretical concepts with practical research scenarios.

Purpose of the Study:

• To apply Actualizing Theory in the preparatory phase of research on nursing work before and after implementing a computerized information system.
• To ensure congruence and appropriateness of research components using a structured theoretical process.

Main Methods:

• The study utilized Actualizing Theory, a framework comprising twelve main strategies.
• These strategies were applied during the development of the research proposal.
• The process focused on clarifying and operationalizing the main components of the intended research.

Main Results:

• The application of Actualizing Theory facilitated a clear understanding of the research components.
• The process aided in representing the research components in an operational form.
• Congruence and appropriateness among research elements were effectively studied.

Conclusions:

• Actualizing Theory provides a valuable method for preparing complex health services research.
• This theoretical application enhances the clarity and operationalization of research designs in nursing informatics.
• The process supports the successful planning of studies investigating the impact of health information technology.