Chapter 38: Nursing Informatics.

What role do computerized records play in public health?

How do literature databases support nursing research?

Which of the following is a benefit of informatics in nursing?

Which journals can be searched for evidence-based materials?

What is a recommended approach when a client mentions questionable online information?

What differentiates knowledge from information?

Which of the following best describes wisdom in the context of nursing informatics?

What is one main function of computers in nursing informatics?

Which type of error occurs when the correct action is taken, but does not proceed as intended?

How do Electronic Health Records (EHRs) primarily improve the efficiency of care?

In what way do Computerized Physician Order Entry (CPOE) systems help reduce errors?

What is an error of omission in a nursing context?

What feature of EHRs helps ensure patient data is accessed securely?

Data, Information, Knowledge, and Wisdom in Nursing

Data are unprocessed numbers, symbols, or words without context (e.g., 67, 101).
Information is grouped data (e.g., age 67, temperature 101).
Knowledge is meaningful information derived from grouping and compiling data.
Wisdom is the appropriate use of knowledge, understanding when and how to apply it to complex problems.

Computer Functions and Errors

Computers have four main functions: input, process, output, and storage.
These functions are known as information processing or data processing.
Computer power is measured by speed, accuracy, and reliability in data storage, processing, and retrieval.
Errors can be:
- Errors of commission (performing the wrong action).
- Errors of omission (failing to perform an action).
- Planning errors (flawed treatment strategies).
- Execution errors (correct action, but not as intended).

Electronic Health Records (EHRs) Benefits

Improve efficiency, productivity, and continuity of care.
Reduce redundancies.
Improve accessibility.
Serve as clinical support tools.
Reduce errors (e.g., using CPOE to eliminate illegible handwriting).
Improve prescription processing efficiency.
Enhance privacy by limiting access and logging retrievals.
Support public health through data analysis and research.

Nursing Informatics and Evidence-Based Practice

Informatics reduces barriers to evidence-based practice.
Workplace computers provide quick access to current global practice information (e.g., research articles).
Literature databases (e.g., PubMed, CINAHL) provide access to relevant articles.
Databases exist for various disciplines (e.g., engineering, education, law, nursing).
Databases allow one to search by specific journal titles (e.g., International Journal of Nursing Sciences).
Nurses should encourage clients to find reputable online sources.

Explore the essential concepts of data, information, knowledge, and wisdom in nursing practice. This quiz also covers critical computer functions and common errors relevant to healthcare. Test your understanding of how these elements interact in the context of Electronic Health Records.