Computerized Decision Support Systems for Nursing Homes: A Scoping Review

Objectives: To summarize the research literature describing the outcomes of computerized decision support systems (CDSSs) implemented in nursing homes (NHs). Design: Scoping review. Methods: Search of relevant articles published in the English language between January 1, 2000, and February 29, 2020, in the Medline database. The quality of the selected studies was assessed according to PRISMA guidelines and the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool. Results: From 1828 articles retrieved, 24 studies were selected for review, among which only 6 were randomized controlled trials. Although clinical outcomes are seldom studied, some studies show that CDSSs have the potential to decrease pressure ulcer incidence and malnutrition prevalence. Improvement of process outcomes such as increased compliance with practice guidelines, better documentation of nursing assessment, improved teamwork and communication, and cost saving, also are reported. Conclusions and implications: Overall, the use of CDSSs in NHs may be effective to improve patient clinical outcomes and health care delivery; however, most of the retrieved studies were observational studies, which significantly weakens the evidence. High-quality studies are needed to investigate CDSS effects and limitations in NHs. (C) 2021 Published by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of AMDA - The Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine.

Automated summary

The research literature on the outcomes of computerized decision support systems (CDSSs) implemented in nursing homes shows potential benefits in improving clinical and process outcomes. However, the majority of the studies reviewed were observational, highlighting the need for high-quality studies to investigate the effects and limitations of CDSSs in nursing homes.