The purchase of computers for nursing requires planning and a number of critical considerations to ensure the device purchased will enable caregivers to reliably and accurately improve health care services delivery. In todayÆs mobile, fast-paced and demanding nursing environment, the use of radio frequency-based systems enables nurses to retrieve medical records electronically regardless of time or geographic considerations. When nursing managers are faced with such purchasing decisions, Liz Nelson (1999) argues that input from both the clinical staff and the information systems department is warranted. In a Step-by-step Guide to Selecting Mobile Wireless Devices, Nelson (1999) argues there are six device criteria that must be considered before any purchase: 1) Safety and mobility, 2) Battery life, 3) Ergonomic design, 4) Input devices, 5) On-board storage, and 6) Theft prevention.
Nelson (1999) describes each of these criteria, explaining what to look for to ensure the soundest purchase. For example, different battery life times and different kinds of batteries are available, but the decision on which to purchase rests largely on the needs of the organization and clinician. Input devices is an important criterion, for it considers such aspects of the purchase as compatibility with other programs and applications and the kind of peripherals available, such as a full-scale keyboard or wireless mouse. Nelson (1999) argues that a set of secondary criteria should be considered before any purchase, criteria relating to the Information Systems department of the organization. These criteria include: 1) Compatibility, 2) Processing power, 3) Safety certifications, 4) Support information, and 5) Warranty and service (Nelson 1999). When such criteria are considered in depth and aligned with organizational fit, the outcome of any purchase will include a high level of reliability and compatibility.
Nelson (1999) argues that before a...