Objectives
  • Define Informatics as an Advanced Nursing 
   Specialty 
  • Contrast Informatics as an Expected 
   Competency for all nurses
  • Elaborate on QSEN Informatics 
   Competencies
  • Discuss Configurations within Plans of 
   Study
  • Review Topical Areas to Engage Learners
  • Present “Lessons Learned”
    Define Nursing Informatics as an Advanced 
    Nursing Specialty 
      NI is a specialty that integrates nursing science, 
      computer science, and information science to 
      manage and communicate data, information, and 
      knowledge in nursing practice. NI facilitates the 
      integration of data, information and knowledge to 
      support patients, nurses, and other providers in 
      their decision-making in all roles and settings. 
      This support is accomplished through the use of 
      information structures, information processes, 
      and information technology.
           ANA, Nursing Informatics Scope and Standards of Practice, 2014
  What makes Informatics a Specialty?
  • Differentiated practice
  • Defined research priorities
  • Representation in professional 
   organizations
  • Formal education programs
  • A credentialing process for specialists
  • An accreditation process* for programs
  Why is this important?
  • These Informatics Nurse Specialists are:
   – Out there with a solid theoretical background 
     and real world experience.
   – Many will consult on or guest lecture for course 
     development.
   – Many want to teach at all levels
   – They produce a body of evidence.
   – They are available in most clinical sites for 
     consult .
  Support for Inclusion
  • Institute of Medicine (IOM)
   – Crossing the Quality Chasm, 2001
   – Health Professions Education:  A Bridge to 
     Quality, 2003
  •  Healthcare professionals need to be 
   taught:
   – Patient centered care
   – How to work in teams
   – Use of evidence based practice
   – Application of QI strategies
   – Proficient use of informatics and information 
     technology