NUR9202

Nursing Informatics

Mr Bob Ribbons

12 points · One 2-hour lecture and one 3-hour tutorial per week · First or second semester · Peninsula

Objectives On completion of this subject, students will be expected to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of how specific software applications (eg wordprocessing, spreadsheet, database, presentation and statistics) may be applied to nursing practice, education, administration and research; describe the role of communication and network technology in the development, implementation and utilisation of information systems; evaluate current trends in communication and network technology and their impact on health information systems; analyse and evaluate a number of information sources related to nursing knowledge in general and specifically to nursing informatics; demonstrate an ability to competently utilise communication applications such as email, newsgroups and internet audio/video technology and evaluate their benefits to health care; outline the role of various computer architectures in the provision of Information Systems; analyse a number of networking structures and topographies; understand issues related to informatics ethics, privacy and confidentiality and evaluate the role of network security in maintaining information system integrity; analyse and evaluate a number of information technology implementation strategies and outline their impact on nursing informatics; understand the role of data standards and case mix in health informatics; demonstrate an understanding of current trends in health care and how they influence the development, implementation and utilisation of information systems and analyse a number of clinical information systems and determine their role in improving nursing care.

Synopsis This subject examines the relationships between computers, information technologies and the provision of nursing care in an increasingly technological health care system. It also provides an opportunity for students to establish a knowledge base related to contemporary issues in nursing informatics. Students will acquire well-developed skills in the utilisation of computing and information technologies in health care settings enabling them to act as a conduits; facilitating and enhancing communication between and among clinicians, technicians, information systems personnel, health care executives and systems vendors. Students will also have the opportunity to and develop professional attitudes concerning issues of privacy, ethics, confidentiality and network security.

Assessment Seminar presentation: 60% · Written assignment: 30% · 'Virtual classroom' tutorial participation: 10%

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