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. 2003:2003:26-30.

The classification of clinicians' information needs while using a clinical information system

Mureen Allen  1 , Leanne M Currie, Mark Graham, Suzanne Bakken, Vimla L Patel, James J Cimino
Affiliations

The classification of clinicians' information needs while using a clinical information system

Mureen Allen et al. AMIA Annu Symp Proc. 2003.

Abstract

Introduction: Information needs are prevalent in clinical practice. They represent a potential source of medical errors. This study seeks to empirically determine the information needs of clinicians while using a clinical information system (CIS), and characterize those needs. In addition this paper will provide the framework necessary for the development of the solutions to these information needs.

Methods: Clinicians were observed while using a CIS. They were recorded on audiotape and the computer screen recorded on videotape. The types of question during these interactions were recorded. A classification of the questions provided the conceptual and architectural basis for the development of context-sensitive links to information resources, called infobuttons.

Results: There were 154 information needs. The questions were grouped into seven categories. Within these categories we were able to identify eleven specific repeated question patterns, accounting for 72 or 47% of users' questions.

Discussion: These findings are applicable to a number of settings and can be generalized to other institutions. The proposed infobuttons based on six categories, will be navigational ('how-to.' links), cross-reference ('what is the em leader ' links), domain knowledge buttons in the areas of laboratory, pharmacy, diagnosis, and definitions/general information. Using these groups we were able to identity eleven patterns of questions.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Rates of Successful Resolution of Information Needs , by Classification
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