Nursing Information Systems

Abstract

REVIEW SUMMARYComputer technology is a reality of our modern world. It gives us a tool which can be used to help us cope with the complexity and efficiency which is often required in many areas of work. It is an erroneous assumption that it robs a situation of its human qualities. No one would deny that the use of a word processor denies the possibility of highly creative writing being produced or that computerized checkouts make the interaction skills of the checkout person irrelevant to the process of struggling with the week's shopping once more. In many ways, the use of the computer frees the person from the drudgery of repetitive labour to allow more time and effort to be available for the more personal skills to find expression.Recording assessment data using a computer keyboard allows just as much caring communication between nurse and clients as writing it down on a form. The critical factor is not the method of recording but the interpersonal skills and motivation of the nurse. The nursing profession is at last beginning to appreciate the role which the new technology can have in improving the service provided to patients. Only by taking an active role now in the implementation of computers to clinical practice can nurses maintain control of their own professional contribution to the large complex systems at present being implemented in many health care settings. Knowledge based systems are set to become a major component in the nurse's ability to take on this role.

Technological Feasibility of a Nursing Clinical Information System

“…A nursing information system is a computer-based integrated system with a storage for clinical and demographic data that predicates the activities of nursing and patient care outcomes, organizes data in accordance with the need in information structures, and provides access to related knowledge bases and patients’ data ( 6 ). The main functions of a nursing information system include: care planning, nursing clinical recording, care assessment, discharge planning, personnel management, staff list, attendance record, cost and budget management, and management of complex skills (Skillmix) ( 7 ). The results of research conducted in North Africa showed, nursing information systems need better technology to develop, and most of the systems implemented in terms of technology have problems ( 8 ), because in addition to the need for access to a computer, an optimized use of these systems requires the presence of new technology tools such as barcode scanner equipment, RFID, advanced equipment for word processing, special software tools such as off-line inquiry software ( 9 ), the presence of LAN network communication and integration between systems ( 10 ).…”

Relationship Between Undergraduate Nursing Students' Self-directed Learning and Training Demands for Nursing Information Systems

“…Nursing information systems (NISs) are essential parts of hospital information systems. Nursing information systems support the clinical, administrative, and managerial activities of nursing staff, 1 as well as contribute to improvements in clinical nursing practice. Utilization of NISs ensures high-quality information and anytime access, 2 empowering nurses to maintain situational awareness and make ad hoc decisions 3,4 .…”

Nursing and Technology Foresight in Futures of a Complex World

“…Computer technology gives us a tool which can be used to help us cope with the complexity and efficiency which is often required in many areas of work [2]. Since the earliest days of technology adoption in health care, nursing informatics professionals have been at the forefront of leading change.…”