To explore a futuristic depiction of health care, applying theoretical concepts, examining the nurse as a knowledge worker, as well as the role and competency of the nurse informaticist.
Develop a 750- to 1500-word paper (4 pages), following proper APA format, addressing the points below, being mindful of the scope and standards of the nursing informaticist. Using outside academic research, include at least three scholarly references and in-text citations.
- Describe the application of the DIKW paradigm to the case study.
- How might nurses in the scenario act as knowledge workers?
- Imagine you were a nursing informaticist in this scenario. Choose a minimum of two technologies mentioned. Describe the technology, its purpose, and how your role would support these technologies in practice.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction: The transformation of healthcare through technology has placed immense responsibility on healthcare professionals, particularly nurses. This paper addresses the application of the DIKW paradigm to a case study, the potential role of nurses as knowledge workers, and the responsibility of a nursing informaticist in supporting technological advancements in healthcare.
1. The DIKW paradigm refers to the Data-Information-Knowledge-Wisdom continuum, where the value of data increases with its transformation into information, knowledge, and wisdom. In the case study, the application of this paradigm is seen in the use of electronic health records (EHRs) to capture data, which is then transformed into information that can be analyzed to identify trends and patterns. Nurses can use this information to generate knowledge, which can inform clinical decision making and improve patient outcomes. Through this process, nurses can promote the development of wisdom by sharing their experiences with other healthcare professionals.
2. Nurses can act as knowledge workers by harnessing their expertise and experience to generate knowledge that can inform patient care. In the case study, nurses can use their knowledge to identify trends in patient data and provide insights that can inform the development of care plans. Nurses can also utilize their experience to provide feedback on the usability of EHRs, which can contribute to the continuous improvement of these technologies. In this way, nurses can act as critical contributors to the development of healthcare technology.
3. As a nursing informaticist in this scenario, two technologies that could be considered include EHRs and telehealth. EHRs are electronic systems that capture, store, and manage patient information. They can improve patient safety, quality of care, and clinical decision making. As a nursing informaticist, my role would be to support the implementation and optimization of EHRs by collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure that the system is user-friendly and meets the needs of all stakeholders. Telehealth refers to the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely. It can improve access to care, reduce healthcare costs, and enhance patient outcomes. As a nursing informaticist, my role would be to ensure that telehealth technologies are integrated into the healthcare system efficiently and effectively. I would work with other healthcare professionals to train nurses and patients on how to use telehealth and monitor its impact on patient outcomes.
In conclusion, the integration of technology into healthcare has created a need for healthcare professionals to understand and embrace its potential. Nurses, as knowledge workers, can contribute to the development of technology by harnessing their expertise and experience to generate knowledge that can inform patient care. The role of a nursing informaticist is vital in supporting the implementation and optimization of technology in healthcare, such as EHRs and telehealth. By understanding and leveraging technology, healthcare professionals can promote quality patient care and improve patient outcomes.
