Treffer: Nursing staff practices towards computerization and computer use in a teaching and Referral hospital, Nairobi Kenya

Introduction: The use and dependence on information technology has recently become increasingly widespread in healthcare and nursing care delivery. The purpose of this study was to assess practices among nursing staff in relation to computerization and computer use in a tertiary referral hospital. Methods: This was a cross sectional study comprising qualified nurses from all departments. Data were collected using questionnaires and observationchecklists. Data were analysed using statistical package for social sciences package version 22.A sample size of 291 nurses participated in the study. A P-value < 0.05 was considered statistical significant. Results: Majority of the respondent’s age was in the category 40-44 years and comprised senior nursing officers 132 (45.4%). Majority participants used computers for ordering supplies 160 (55%), nursing notes 41 (14.1%), billing 64 (22%) and communication 26 (8.9%). Two hundred and fifty nine (89%) had the ability to type using the computer keyboard while 32 (11%) had difficulties. Regarding communication, 50 (17.2%) used electronic mails while 241(82.8%) did not and this was statistically significant ponclusion:Nurse’s practices on computerization and computer use have an important bearing on the uptake and utilization of computer systems in the workplace.Majority of the nurses used computers for ordering supplies, billing and nursing notes.