CPTR110N-CC Introductory Computer Tools for Nurses
COURSE: NURSING INFORMATICS
CODE: CPTR100N
INSTRUCTOR: MS. CYNTHIA CUDJOE
STUDENT: MISS. TITANIA TOOLSIE
DATE: 15TH
FEBRUARY, 2014
Informatics is,
in its most general sense, the science of information. It involves the practice of information processing, and the engineering of information systems. It studies the structure, behaviours and interactions of
natural and artificial systems which store, process, access, and communicate
information. Since the advent of computers, individuals and organizations
increasingly process information digitally. This has led to the study of
informatics with computational, mathematical, biological, cognitive and social
aspects, including study of the social impact of information
technologies.
“Nursing
Informatics on the other hand can be defined as combining nursing science,
information management science, and computer science to manage and process
nursing data, information, and knowledge to deliver quality care to the
public." (HRSA, 2008).
"Nursing
informatics facilitates the integration of data, information, and knowledge to
support patients, nurses, and other providers in their decision-making in all
roles and settings. This support is accomplished through the use of information
structures, information processes, and information technology. The goal of
Nursing Informatics is to improve the health of populations, communities,
families, and individuals by optimizing information management and
communication." ANA (2008).
Nursing
informatics looks for ways to simplify and enhance documentation using advanced
computer and information technologies. Instead of spending each shift
handwriting notes into every patient’s chart, nursing informatics makes it
possible to record notes sooner and faster using computers, handheld devices,
voice recognition and other tools. The goal here is for the nurse
informaticists to design and implement systems that improve documentation
accuracy, eliminate unnecessary work, enhance accuracy and enable analysis of
clinical data.
Despite
the fact that nursing informatics is entering its third decade as a specialty
within nursing, many countries are still utilizing traditional methods of pen
and paper documentation. Today in Trinidad and Tobago there are still many
areas lacking in this specialty but in the same breath there are many areas
that are utilizing and undergoing metamorphosis where this form of technology
is concerned. I would consider myself fortunate as I was privileged to work
within an area where for years proposals were made for the improvements of our
database systems and now I can proudly say that theses dreams have materialized
and the benefits are enormous!
Nursing
informatics supports consumers, patients, nurses, and other providers in their
decision-making in all roles and settings. This support is accomplished through
the use of information structures, information processes, and information
technology.
It involves
taking the nursing process which has always been hands-on with the patient, and
connecting it to the electronic process that captures data. The idea is to
reengineer the patient care delivery workflow so documentation and data
gathering are integrated and automatic.
Informatics
nurses also work with other clinical disciplines to coordinate important
aspects of health care delivery, such as discharge planning and transitions of
care. According to the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society
(HIMSS), Nursing Informatics Workforce Survey, in 2004, 41 percent of nurses in
informatics positions reported having no training at all, but by 2011, that
number had dropped to 5 percent. Today, 35 percent of informatics nurses have a
master's degree in nursing, and 24 percent have some other master's degree.
Another 4 percent have PhDs. About two thirds also have at least 10 years of
nursing experience.
After extensive
reading and research in nursing informatics I do conclude by agreeing to the
benefits and advantages it offers the health sectors and believe it’s the way
forward as we as health professionals continue to develop and grow as a nation
and find our first world status! Relevant training however is crucial.
Nursing
Informatics is indeed the future of our profession…
REFERENCES:
ANA Scope and
Standards of Nursing Informatics Practice, 2001, pg. vii
Nursing
Informatics. Retrieved 2014. http://www.nln.org/facultyprograms/facultyresources/informatics.htm
Nursing Informatics:
Scope and Standards of Practice. Silver Spring, MD: NursingBooks.org
Professional Nursing Practice: Concepts and Perspectives, Sixth Edition. Blais, Hayes
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