Nursing Informatics
Nursing informatics is a relatively new position in the healthcare business that allows doctors to use data to treat patients. In this sense, nursing informatics experts organize, analyze, and interpret data in order to establish an evidence-based strategy, in accordance with (American Nurses Association 2015).
Job Description
Allegan General Hospital, a Michigan non-profit acute care facility, is looking for a full-time clinical analyst to work in the nursing informatics department.
Requirements
Applicants must have a Michigan RN license, as well as a bachelor's degree in a relevant subject in nursing and IT or a master's degree in informatics. Applicants are also required to have a minimum working experience of five years in the field of nursing with abilities in analytics, statistics, project and change management as well as effective planning and organizational expertise. Most importantly, the job position requires applicants to have knowledge of accredited and regulatory standards and policies in hospitals. In this regard, these job qualifications suit the mandate established by the government's electronic health records. Clinical analysts do not necessarily have to be nurses but a professional who has taken a degree in life or social sciences with a solid background in IT. Working experience in nursing comes as an added advantage.
Informatics Competencies
According to the American Nurses Association (2015), clinical analysts should strike a balance between efficiency and federal regulations when handling sensitive data. Therefore, the position description aligns with the informatics competencies in not only managing electronic health records but also planning for the future direction in ensuring a constant flow and accessibility of information.
Improving Responsibilities
Informatics nurses are present in my place of work but do not sufficiently meet their responsibilities. In my own perception, they should manage not only electronic health records but also be able to participate in training and selecting other personnel in related fields.
References
American Nurses Association. (2015). Nursing Informatics: Scope and Standards of Practice. Silver Spring, MD: Nursesbooks. org; 2015.
