A qualitative exploration of the concept of dehumanisation as experienced by nurses within the context of information systems

Abstract

The aim of the presented research project was to begin an exploration of the concept of dehumanisation within the context of Information Systems (IS). Dehumanisation is presented as a high level concept that is normally associated with negative connotations. A qualitative survey is presented based on an interpretivist research paradigm. Analysis was based on the various strategies of grounded theory; this was limited to the application of microanalysis and axial coding. Data codes identified from microanalysis were collated into thirty-five sub-categories and grouped into eight abstract data categories. Links within and between the data categories were identified. The study found that nurses as a subset of IS users perceived IS and dehumanisation in a variety of ways. This has potentially far reaching consequences including a direct correlation to an increase in clinical risk. The study also identified IS as having a dehumanising effect, correlating well with the themes identified within the cognitive framework devised for interviews. Further secondary themes were identified as being associated with dehumanisation within the context of IS.