A Comparison of Nursing Data Classification Systems

• Health care classifications are essential tools for collecting and processing health-related information. They also provide a unified language for interdisciplinary communications. Nursing data is important for extension of knowledge, evaluating the quality and effectiveness of nursing care, and supporting human resource planning. Therefore, an integrated system for collecting, storing and retrieving nursing data is essential. The aim of this research was to compare nursing classification systems.• This was a descriptive-comparative study conducted in 2009. We studied all available classification systems in the world. The systems were found through searching the Internet, books and journals. Results were presented in statistical tables.• All systems were American systems developed by persons, associations or universities for specific care facilities. Another classification system has been designed by the International Council of Nursing (ICN) for international use by all nursing care facilities. There were no systems for nursing classification in Iran.• Nursing data needs to be uniquely coded for being used in computer systems and Iranian Electronic Health Records. Thus, application or development of a nursing classification system in Iran with the purpose of nursing information management seems necessary.