informatics

Nursing Informatics (NI)

A specialty integrating nursing, computer, and information sciences to manage and communicate data, information, knowledge, and wisdom in nursing practice.

Theory

Scientific backgrounds explaining how various factors influence an outcome, using evidence for general explanations.

Model

A simplification of a phenomenon that describes how a theory applies to specific cases and helps organize variables.

Framework

A series of related models that organizes factors into categories to describe a phenomenon.

Data

Raw facts described objectively without interpretation (e.g., patient name, vital signs).

Information

Data that has been interpreted, organized, or structured to be functional through knowledge application.

Knowledge

Processed information used as a basis for action to clarify or explain aspects of the environment.

Nursing Knowledge

The synthesis of information to identify relationships and make decisions that guide nursing practice.

Wisdom

The highest level of the DIKW hierarchy, giving maximum meaning and value to initial data.

Entry Level Nurse

Uses nursing-specific software and patient care technology for patient safety.

Experianced Nurse

Makes judgments based on data trends and collaborates on system development.

Informatics Nurse Specialist (INS)

A nurse with graduate-level informatics preparation who assists in meeting information needs, conducts research, and develops theory.

Graves and Corcoran’s Model

Depicts NI as a linear progression (Data → Information → Knowledge) with management processing integrated in each.

Schwirian’s Model

A pyramid framework consisting of Raw Material, Technology, Users, and Goal/Objective.

Turley’s Model

The intersection of Nursing Science and Informatics, containing Cognitive Science, Information Science, and Computer Science.

DIKW Theory

A framework showing the transformation of Data → Information → Knowledge → Wisdom.

Foundation of Knowledge Model

Illustrates knowledge use through Knowledge Acquisition, Generation, Processing, and Distribution.

Novice

Very limited ability to predict patient outcomes.

Beginner

New graduates who recognize recurrent, meaningful components of a situation.

Competent

Recognizes patterns and clinical situations quickly.

Proficient

Learns from experience and modifies plans based on events.

Expert

Possesses an intuitive grasp of situations based on deep knowledge.

Scope of Work for Nurse Informaticists

Analyze healthcare data to improve care, improve efficiency and reduce costs, and ensure compliance.

Basic Skills Requirements for Nurse Informaticists

Registered Nurse with at least 3 years of clinical background; excellent communication and managerial skills.