Aims: This paper explores how the Novice-to-Expert Nursing Practice framework can illuminate the challenges of and opportunities in implementing information technology (IT), such as clinical decision support systems (CDSS), in nursing practice.
Background: IT implementation in health care is increasing; however, substantial costs and risks remain associated with these projects.
Evaluation: The theoretical framework of Novice-to-Expert Nursing Practice was applied to current design and implementation literature for CDSS.
Key issues: Organizational policies and CDSS design affect implementation and user adoption.
Conclusions: Nursing CDSS can improve the overall quality of care when designed for the appropriate end-user group and based on a knowledge base reflecting nursing expertise.
Implications for nursing management: Nurse administrators can positively influence CDSS function and end-user acceptance by participating in and facilitating staff nurse involvement in IT design, planning and implementation. Specific steps for nurse administrators and managers are included in this paper.