Week 2 - Health Informatics Lecture Notes

This set of flashcards contains key terms and definitions related to Health Informatics, computer systems, software, and the evolution of technology in healthcare.

Nursing Informatics

Integrates principles of social, physical, natural and health sciences and humanities in nursing.

Computer System

A system made up of computer hardware and software.

First Generation Computers

Computers from 1943-1956 using vacuum tubes and punched cards.

GIGO

Garbage in, garbage out; the principle that the quality of output is determined by the quality of the input.

Transistor

A semiconductor device used in second generation computers to replace vacuum tubes.

Integrated Circuit

A miniaturized electronic circuit used in third generation computers to reduce size and improve efficiency.

Microprocessor

A single chip that includes the CPU, primarily used in fourth generation computers.

RAM

Random Access Memory; temporary storage for data currently being processed.

ROM

Read-Only Memory; permanent storage for essential instructions needed to boot a computer.

Cache

A smaller, faster type of volatile memory that stores frequently accessed data.

Software

Sets of instructions that tell a computer how to perform specific tasks.

Operating System

Software that manages computer hardware and software resources, enabling the execution of applications.

Application Software

Programs designed to perform a group of coordinated functions, tasks, or activities for the user.

Graphical User Interface (GUI)

A visual way of interacting with a computer using items like windows, icons, and menus.

Expert Systems

Computer systems using AI to replicate human expertise and decision-making.

Database Management System (DBMS)

Software that interacts with the user and the database to capture and analyze data.

Data Warehousing

A system used for reporting and data analysis, and is considered a core component of business intelligence.

Big Data

High-volume, high-velocity, and high-variety information assets that require new forms of processing to enable enhanced decision-making.

Open Source Software

Software that is made available with its source code, allowing users to run, modify, and share it.

Free Software

Software that gives users the freedom to run, modify, and share the software without restrictions.

Personal Informatics

Tools that help individuals collect and analyze personal data to improve self-awareness or monitor behavior.