The course Computer tools for nurses was a combination of
challenges and excitement. Numerous study units were covered which included,
Nursing informatics, hardware and software devices, productivity software,
electronic health records (EHRs), health care information systems, Telehealth
and using social networking tools.
Although the majority
of the study units were related to technological innovations and the impact on
health care delivery, variations (e g the type of technological innovation)
allowed for comprehension of the application, benefits and disadvantages.
Several lessons were learnt, which allowed for preparation and optimal function
in the increasingly technological environments and health institutions.
I learnt that
nurses can contribute effectively to technological acquisition, through nursing
informatics. It is the “application of computer technology to all fields of
nursing” Scholes& Barber (1980). Nursing informatics specialists are
beneficial for each health institution since they effectively aid in the
authorized selection and application of appropriate hardware and software
devices. Hardware is the physical aspects of the computer (e g the mouse,
desktop and mother board), while software is the instructional programmes of
the computer (e g word processors, data bases and presentation tables).
Productivity software are those functional programmes (e g Microsoft system)
that aids the user in the completion of tasks (e g writing online journals).
Electronic health records
(EHRs) are a type of database that allows the clinician to document, store and
retrieve patient data. It provides various advantages e g easy data access,
transmission and retrieval, more reliable prescription via barcoding systems
and enhanced privacy and security of patient’s data. The disadvantages include cost
relating to acquisition, maintenance and training of workers. Additionally,
attitudes towards these innovations varies, often unwelcomed by nurses due to
the increase task associated with learning a new skill while delivering care
and limited knowledge about the use of the computer.
Health care
information system refers to those “systems that captures, stores, manages or
transmit information related to the health activities of organisations that
work within the health sector.” Pacific health network (2011). These include
hospital, nursing and clinical information systems. I learnt that these systems
are beneficial in staff scheduling (e g nursing information systems), managing
of medical, administrative, financial and legal issues (e g hospital information
systems), and organizing, storage and ‘double checking’ medical information (e
g clinical information systems).
Another lesson
learnt is the importance of Telehealth. Mayo clinic (2014) defines telehealth
as “using digital information and communication technologies, such as computers
and mobile devices, to manage your health and wellbeing”. It allows for
increase access to care in remote areas and across locations. Ensuring
effective Telehealth (e g via videoconferencing) requires Telehealth links,
patient assessment, functioning equipment, room free of noise intrusion, and
established means of communication.
Using social
networking tools and evaluation of web resources are what I would consider to
be the most important lessons learnt in the course. This study unit and
research reinforced the importance of the application of caution in posting
controversial information, even in a personal capacity. There are negative
repercussions for job hunting, status in university, volunteer services and
private life. These include joblessness, security threats and legal issues. I
was also able to understand state laws relating to privacy and security of
patient’s data e g the health insurance portability and accountability act
(HIPPA) 1996. The application of the criteria evaluation for websites
(authority, accuracy, objectivity, currency and coverage) are important to
ensure credible information. Many ‘hoax’ or false websites exist on the net.
Therefore, since nursing is a profession that requires continuous research and
application, it must be ensured that research is accurate, through selection of
valid resources to ensure effective and efficient delivery of care and
successful course completion.
Enrollment and
completion of this course has and will impact my future positively. Knowledge
base is enhanced and computer skills improved. This course has paved the way
for competence and optimal function in the present (in developed countries) and
future largely technological health environments. The basic knowledge acquired
from the Computer tools in nursing course has peaked interest towards the
subsequent study of nursing informatics and specialization. It is my intention
to enroll in further online courses that will allow for advance knowledge and
optimal function as a nurse informatics specialist. Therefore, in the near
future I will be able to contribute to decisions relating to technological
acquisition and ensure high standards of care.
In conclusion,
Computer tools for nurses is a course that all nurses should partake of.
Computer skills and comprehension of its components will allow for the creation
of newsletters, blogs, brochures, and slide shows for professional development,
education and recreation. Budgets, financing and statistics can be presented or
calculated via spread sheets and presentation tables. The lessons learnt and
knowledge acquired will favorably impact my future as a nurse in this
technological era. In addition, a valuable lesson learnt is that trust in God,
commitment and sacrifice are key components for success. Technology is
consistent in all aspects of our lives, so let us embrace by using it in a
meaningful way.
References
Scholes, M. and
Barber, B. (1980). Towards nursing informatics. In: Lindberg,
D & Kaihara, S (eds.) MEDINFO 80. Proceedings of the 3rd
World Congress on Medical
Informatics. Amsterdam: North-Holland, 70-73.
Mayo clinic (2014). Telehealth: when technology meets health
care. Retrieved March 2, 2015
fromhttp://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/consumer-health/in-depth/telehealth/art-20044878
Pacific health network (2011). Health information Systems
(HIS). Retrieved March 2, 2015 from
http://www.phinnetwork.org/Resources/HIS.aspx
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