ABSTRACT
The anaesthesia process is becoming more and more complex as a result of the need for continuous improvement of anaesthesia techniques and monitoring equipment. Because of this, the process is not always manageable for the anaesthetist without support. This paper describes the research aimed at finding out which, when, and how information should be presented to the anaesthetist. We have developed a cognitive model of the decision making process of the anaesthetist, which is based on models of decision making in industrial settings and in anaesthesia. The model states that the decision making process of the anaesthetist is guided by goals and expectations, and is primarily influenced by its context. An observation study proved the face validity of the model, but further research will have to show whether the model can be used for finding information requirements in anaesthesia.
