Factors Associated With Canadian Nurses' Informatics Competency

Abstract

As digital innovations continue to transform health systems in Canada, it is important to examine registered nurses' preparedness in informatics, and factors associated with informatics competency. An exploratory, descriptive, cross-sectional survey was used to determine self-perceived informatics competencies, and factors associated with competency, among practicing nurses in Alberta. Results from 2844 completed surveys showed that nurses' self-perceived informatics competency was slightly above the mark of competent. Perceptions of competency were highest on foundational computer literacy skills and lowest on information and knowledge management competencies. However, overall informatics competency mean scores varied significantly in relation to age, educational qualification, years of experience, and work setting. The quality of informatics training and support offered by employers contributed the most to variance in mean scores of total and subdomains of informatics competency. Other factors, such as age, educational qualification, work setting, previous informatics education, access to the Internet, use of health technology, access to supporting resources, informatics training, an informatics role, and continuing education in informatics, also contributed to mean scores variance in differing degrees. Findings from this study provide a basis for actionable policies to address informatics educational needs and support requirements among nurses practicing now and in the future.

Assessing nurses’ informatics competency and identifying its related factors

“…In the modern healthcare environment, nurses are exposed to a variety of complex clinical technologies, necessitating possession of advanced skills and knowledge in informatics (Kleib and Nagle, 2018). As informatics is gaining interest as the basis for enhancing patient safety and quality of care, informatics competency has become crucial in fulfilling the professional role of nurses (Gassert, 2008; Hwang and Park, 2011).…”

Advancing Emergency Nurses’ Leadership and Practice through Informatics

“…Although these competencies have been in existence for over a decade now, a survey by Canada Health Infoway of nurses providing direct care (n=2058) revealed only 30% of these nurses were familiar with these competencies, just 7% actually applied the competencies in their practice, and 67% were not familiar (Canada Health Infoway, 2017). In another recent study involving practicing registered nurses in Alberta (n=2844), results revealed the two main areas nurses reported struggling most with were: information and knowledge management and the use of ICT in the delivery of patient care, core elements of informatics competency (Kleib & Nagle, 2018a). Although no specific research is available yet on ED nurses' perceived competency in informatics, these studies suggest that these patterns are likely evident in this group.…”

Cultural Impact on the Intention to Use Nursing Information Systems of Nurses in Taiwan and China: Survey and Analysis

“…Past studies have found that, in their workplaces, nursing staff often lack the time, resources, and tools to make use of comprehensive real-time information to make decisions regarding patient care. Kleib et al [ 21 ] found that mean informatics competency scores were significantly related to the age, educational qualification, and years of work experience of nurses. Abdrbo [ 22 ] recommended the incorporation of information competencies into nursing programs and the introduction of a major course on nursing informatics.…”