Chapter 1-9 Nursing Fundamentals: Evidence-Based Practice, Informatics, Communication, SBAR, and Rapid Response

A set of practice flashcards covering evidence-based practice, nursing informatics, SBAR communication, HIPAA and confidentiality, cultural and language considerations, therapeutic communication, the nursing process, rapid response, and the importance of documentation.

What is evidence-based practice (EBP) in nursing?

A problem-solving approach to clinical decisions using the best available evidence from research to improve patient outcomes.

What does the Clark acronym in nursing research stand for?

Clinical care, long-term care, across the lifespan, rehabilitation, and community health.

What are the five steps of applying evidence-based practice in nursing?

Identify a question, search the literature, evaluate the evidence, apply it in practice, and reevaluate outcomes.

Define nursing informatics (NIC).

A field combining nursing science, information science, and computer science to improve communication and patient care.

What are examples of nursing informatics tools mentioned in the notes?

Electronic health records (EHRs), patient portals, and telehealth/telemedicine.

What does NIC stand for in the context of nursing informatics?

Nursing, Information, and Computer science.

What is SBAR and what are its components?

A structured handoff framework: Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation.

What should be included in the SBAR 'Situation' section?

A brief statement of the current problem or what is happening with the patient.

What should be included in the SBAR 'Background' section?

Relevant history and context (presenting condition, prior diagnoses/medications, DNR status, etc.).

What should be included in the SBAR 'Assessment' section?

The clinician’s current assessment and objective data indicating what is going on.

What should be included in the SBAR 'Recommendation' section?

What actions you want the clinician to take (orders, tests, or consultations).

Why is HIPAA important in nursing informatics?

It protects patient privacy and confidentiality and guides proper data handling and disclosure.

What is telehealth and why is it relevant in modern nursing?

Delivery of healthcare via telecommunications; increased during COVID and remains a major care option.

What is the role of patient portals in informatics?

Online access for patients to view test results, messages, and health information, enhancing communication.

What is a key best practice to protect confidentiality when using electronic charts?

Log out or close the chart when stepping away to prevent unauthorized access.

What is intrapersonal communication?

Communication with one’s own self (inner dialogue).

What is interpersonal communication?

Communication between people, such as nurse-to-patient or nurse-to-team communication.

Which factors influence how you communicate with patients?

Developmental level, sociocultural differences, education level, language, personal space, and physical/mental/emotional state.

Why is cultural awareness important in patient communication?

To respect diverse beliefs and practices; use translators when needed and tailor communication to the patient’s culture.

Why is language acquisition connected to necessity in patient care?

If a patient does not speak English, translation is necessary to ensure understanding and safe care.

What is the role of a translator in patient care?

Provide accurate communication when language barriers exist, via in-person or phone-based services.

What is personal space in nursing care and why is consent important before touching a patient?

Respect the patient’s boundaries; obtain consent before measuring, listening, or palpating to avoid frightening or harming the patient.

What are nonverbal cues and why are they important in therapeutic communication?

Tone of voice, body language, eye contact, and facial expressions; they convey empathy and intent and should be monitored for professionalism.

What is the nursing process and how does it relate to communication and documentation?

Assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation; continuous communication with the patient and team and thorough documentation.

What is a rapid response (RRS) and how does SBAR relate to it?

A process to quickly address a patient’s deterioration; SBAR is used to structure the communication with the team and physician.

Why is thorough documentation important in nursing practice?

To ensure legal coverage, clinical continuity, and accountability; include time stamps and note late documentation if needed.