The existance of theory electronics propinquity and ICT competency among nurses staff: A Malaysian case study

This research has been exploring the existence of the theory electronic propinquity by using the facilities of modern technology such as the computer and internet in the communication process.This research also looking examines the Information Technology competency among the hospital staff such as nurses.Electronic Propinquity theory is one of the theories under the Media and Communications theory developed by Korzenny in 1978. Although this theory has been used extensively, studies concerning the advantages of using information technology in management communication in hospital management are not as common.The results of this study also attempt to update Korzenny’s theory to the present generation.This study uses a Qualitative methods approach on 22 respondents. This study was conducted at the four government hospitals in Malaysia: Selayang’s Hospital, Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital, Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Putrajaya Hospital. These hospitals are chosen because they are the first four hospitals in Malaysia using full computerised technology in management. Furthermore, they were also recommended by the Ministry of Health in Malaysia.Basically, the questions in the survey form are based on the elements contained in the theory of electronic propinquity.The result of the study found that, the staff is aware of the existence of Electronic theory Propinquity when using communication technology and the level of IT competency is high among staff Nurses