Informatics is defined as “the science of how to use data, information, and knowledge to improve human health and the delivery of health care services” (What is informatics, n.d). According to the Canadian Nurse Association [CAN], 2019), nursing informatics is the practice and science of integrating nursing information and knowledge with technology to manage to integrate health information (p.1).  Reflecting on the above definitions; nursing informatics is the process of nurses using technology and science to manage patient’s information. As I read the required reading; it is interesting to see the different definition of nursing informatics. I learn that nursing informatics is a distinct specialty in nursing (Staggers & Cheryl, 2002).

What does the word informatics mean?

Although nursing informatics has many definitions, the two definitions which stood out was defined by Ball and Hannah; the use of information, technologies by nurses in terms of caring for their patients and administration of health care facilities (Staggers & Cheryl, 2002). The other definition was by Graves and Corcoran; nursing informatics is the combination of computer and nursing science which assists in the management of processing nursing data and information to support the practice of nursing and delivering nursing care (Staggers & Cheryl, 2002). The two definitions stood out because they focus more on patient care, rather than technology.

What informatics and eHealth technology have you utilized in your practice?

According to the Registered Nursing Association of Ontario [RNAO], 2009), ehealth is a representation of providing health services and information, enhanced by the internet and technology (p.1). Within my nursing practices, I have used electronic health records, electronic medication administration record (EMAR); which is the administration of the patient’s medication using the computer. I have also utilized admission, discharge, transfer (ADT) and electronic medical record.  Within my nursing practice, ADT and EMAR, has made my nursing practice easier as the majority of the information is easily accessible on the computer, which I believe provides more accurate information and allows each discipline to have a more accurate view of the patient.

Reference

Staggers, N., & Cheryl, B.T. (2002). The evolution of definition for nursing informatics: A critical analysis and revised definition. Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association, 9 (3), 255. Retrieved from http://moxy.eclibrary.ca/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.roxy.nipissingu.ca/docview/220779335?accountid=12792

What is Informatics? (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.amia.org/fact-sheets/what-informatics

Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (2009). RNAO eHealth Toolkit. Toronto, Canada, Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario.