Actor-Network Theory as a sociotechnical lens to explore the relationship of nurses and technology in practice: Methodological considerations for nursing research

Authors

Richard G. Booth, The University of Western Ontario
Mary Anne Andrusyszyn, The University of Western Ontario
Carroll Iwasiw, The University of Western Ontario
Lorie Donelle, The University of Western OntarioFollow
Deborah Compeau, Carson College of Business

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

6-1-2016

Journal

Nursing Inquiry

Volume

23

Issue

2

First Page

109

Last Page

120

URL with Digital Object Identifier

10.1111/nin.12118

Abstract

Actor-Network Theory is a research lens that has gained popularity in the nursing and health sciences domains. The perspective allows a researcher to describe the interaction of actors (both human and non-human) within networked sociomaterial contexts, including complex practice environments where nurses and health technology operate. This study will describe Actor-Network Theory and provide methodological considerations for researchers who are interested in using this sociotechnical lens within nursing and informatics-related research. Considerations related to technology conceptualization, levels of analysis, and sampling procedures in Actor-Network Theory based research are addressed. Finally, implications for future nursing research within complex environments are highlighted.