Abstract:

Computer-based clinical documentation in nursing care is presently been practiced in some hospitals both in developing and developed countries. The research assesses factors influencing implementation of computer-based documentation by nurses in State Specialist and Mother and Child Hospitals, Akure, Ondo State. A well-structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Findings revealed that the majority of the nurses already have good knowledge and perception about computer and computer-based documentation however, it is not being implemented in these hospitals. The results also revealed various factors affecting the non-implementation include lack of infrastructure 93.0% been the highest considered factor and inability to operate computer was the least considered factor 31.9%. Other factors include inadequate power supply 88.9%; time consuming 74%; Non-availability of computers and accessories 71.7%; the cost of selecting and implementing computer system 66.37%; fear of increase task 56%; government policy. 54.6% change of shift, medical rounds 40.1%. It is therefore recommended that the government should provide funds, adequate computers to each ward and adequate power supply should also be available so as to facilitate the use of computers in the documentation.