discuss what the nursing’s role is and/or should be in decision making regarding selecting information systems.
The nursing profession is undergoing a digital transformation, and information systems are increasingly becoming an essential aspect of healthcare delivery. Nurses play a vital role in ensuring that the right information systems are selected to support patient care. The nursing profession has unique expertise in patient care delivery, and this expertise should be leveraged when selecting information systems that will impact patient outcomes. Therefore, this essay will discuss the nursing role in decision-making regarding selecting information systems.
Firstly, nurses are often the primary users of health information systems, and they must be involved in the selection process. Nurses have extensive knowledge of patient care workflows, and they can provide valuable insights into the selection of information systems that align with patient care delivery. Nurses have a unique perspective on the usability of health information systems, and they can help identify user requirements, which are often overlooked in the decision-making process.
Secondly, nurses should be involved in the selection process to ensure that the information systems selected align with clinical workflows. Nurses work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as physicians, pharmacists, and therapists, to provide patient care. Therefore, nurses should be part of the decision-making process to ensure that information systems are integrated into clinical workflows seamlessly. The involvement of nurses in the selection process can also ensure that the selected information systems align with clinical practice guidelines and policies.
Thirdly, nurses can advocate for patient-centered information systems during the selection process. Patient-centered care is an essential aspect of the nursing profession, and nurses must ensure that the selected information systems support this care model. Nurses can provide valuable insights into how information systems can be tailored to support patient-centered care delivery. Patient-centered information systems can improve patient outcomes by providing patients with access to their health information, allowing them to participate in care decision-making, and providing timely and accurate information.
In conclusion, the nursing profession has a crucial role in the selection of information systems that support patient care delivery. Nurses have unique expertise in patient care workflows and can provide valuable insights into the usability of health information systems. Nurses can ensure that the selected information systems align with clinical workflows and support patient-centered care delivery. Therefore, nurses should be involved in the decision-making process to ensure that the right information systems are selected to support patient care.