Nursing informatics refers to a field of nursing that incorporates information and computer sciences and nursing to provide data communication management that supports the nursing practice and enhances patient care outcomes. Technologies that have been developed as a result of healthcare informatics include electronic medical records (EMRs), computerized provider order entry (CPOE), test results, medication records, among a few (“Nursing informatics,” n.d.).
Due to informatics, nurses and other clinical staff can receive or access correct and relevant medical information, including patients’ anamnesis, lab and imaging results, medication lists, reminders, and interdisciplinary staff notes to make appropriate decisions. Furthermore, nurse informaticists substantially contribute to improved communication between team members, research, and the development of up-to-date technologies, which is vital for decreasing patient care delays, medical errors, and healthcare costs.
Before conducting the TANIC self-assessment, I perceived my competency level slightly lower than I had anticipated. Nevertheless, after reading the necessary information and passing the test, I revealed that I was skilled in the test’s main parts, such as basic computer literacy, clinical information management, and information literacy. This is because I regularly use the computer due to the specificity of my work requiring managing and processing a considerable volume of data.
In particular, I know the principle functions of Microsoft Word and Excel, can work with widespread formats of files, including PDF, PPT, or TXT, upload or download that. I am also a competent user of the Internet and understand how to create hyperlinks and distinguish the credibility of information sources. However, the key drawback associated with my competency level is the protection of the personal computer. Indeed, occasionally, I have to turn to the help desk to install an antivirus properly or resolve various password problems.
Working as a registered nurse (RN), I primarily apply the two test competencies, namely, computer literacy and clinical information management. The first competency requires me to operate with different files and documents, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, manage emails, and use social media appropriately. The second competency implies ensuring the security, privacy, and confidentiality of patients’ EMRs, updating data and programs, and communicating with patients or colleagues electronically.
The first means that can be used in a strategic plan to improve my competence skills are online resources, such as educational videos, web pages, or free Internet modules devoted to specific topics. For example, by watching helpful videos and reading necessary information, I have learned to use a PowerPoint presentation and Excel thoroughly. Undoubtedly, the second valuable source is training courses or continuing education on particular themes, tasks, or issues.
These resources can enable me to deepen my knowledge of the learned topic and acquire fundamental skills in new programs, including video, photo, and file redactors or firewalls. In this regard, education on cybersecurity and patient privacy gain central importance since the cases of digital frauds and security breaches have increased for the past decade. For instance, as of 2020, medical data breaches amounted to 599, affecting over 26 million people. (Bitglass, 2021). Besides, training courses allow for broad flexibility in planning personal schedules and setting own pace.
To enact the improvement plan, I will first analyze and evaluates my primary needs and concerns and then determine and prioritize goals based on the performed assessment. To monitor my progress, I will also establish affordable milestones signifying completing specific tasks. Hereafter, following the set benchmarks and goals, I will take determined action directed at enhancing my skills. Last but not least, I will conduct a comprehensive review of my progress and identify areas needing further improvement.
References
Bitglass. (2021). Healthcare breach report 2021: Hacking and IT incidents on the rise. Web.
Nursing informatics. (n.d.). RegisteredNursing. Web.