A systems approach in nursing administration: structure, process, and outcome.

This article presents a systems approach for administrators to consider as they review structure, process, and outcome in their healthcare organization. Systems provide a way to access data, information, and knowledge. Systems organize and unify the complex world of nursing practice in healthcare systems. Use of King's conceptual system, Theory of Goal Attainment, and transaction process is presented as an example that helps the multiple individuals and groups use information and knowledge to structure nursing practice. The transaction process helps individuals and groups identify goals and outcomes that lead to effective nursing care, evidence-based practice, and cost-effectiveness.