Nurses' perception of their readiness using technology information to face Omicron according to the technology acceptance model

Abstract

Background: The emergence of a new variant of Omicron in 132 countries at the beginning of 2022 leaves concerns for nurses. The experience of nurses handling the COVID-19 pandemic makes a question mark on how prepared the profession is to deal with the spreading of the virus. This article attempts to analyze the perceptions of nurses' readiness to use information technology (IT) when facing the new Omicron variant. Methods: The study used a quantitative approach with a descriptive cross-sectional design supported by the Technology Acceptance Model. This study used a questionnaire to assess respondents' perceptions. A total of 180 eligible respondents were involved in the study. Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) was used to measure the respondents' perception, and SPSS version 26 was used for analytical data. Results: The results showed that 96% of nurses were vaccinated, 45% never attended COVID-19 training (External Variables), 45.6% ready with information technology facilities (Perceived Ease to Use), 47.2% were mentally/psychologically prepared, 47.2% supported by family, and 37.8% they had public support (Perceived Usefulness). Those 3 components shaped different perceptions (Attitudes) towards using the IT in which 44.4% were ready, 27.2% were in the process, 25.3% were not prepared and 3.1% had no idea (3.1%). As a result (Behavior), out of 180 population, 63.6% of participants were categorized as not ready. Conclusion: The findings recommend that nurses using IT in dealing with Omicron 100% must be vaccinated and participate in COVID-19 training.