What is Nursing Informatics
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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