Future of Nursing Informatics

Something I would like to see within the health care system is better integration. There are a few things I mean by that. One thing is how to use a computer. There are some nurses and staff who have been around a very long time and have had to use a computer maybe once or twice ever while at work. As we all know, this isn’t the case anymore. Yes, we all got EPIC training, but what about those who don’t even know how to use a mouse? Computer systems aren’t helpful when you don’t know how to turn one on!! As far as who has to take it, there could be an option to test out of it or if you could volunteer to take it if you felt like you need to.

Another thing would be additional training on systems already in place. For example, I am pretty proficient with EPIC, but not a day goes by I don’t learn something new about it. I think that there should be floor specific training for everyone after the first 6months to a year after starting. That way, the person can have a good feel for the system already, and build on the knowledge they already have.

With integration of technology into our health care systems, it is imperative we know how to use all components of that technology given to us. It is also important for the upper management and other committees to make sure everyone is being taught and helped if they don’t understand. Technology at one point in time has been everyone’s best friend and enemy. I have found once you know what your dong, it only works for you.

Bacterial Endocarditis

Bacterial endocarditis is a bacterial infection of the endocardium of the heart, mostly the valves. It occurs when bacteria enter the bloodstream (bactremia) and attach to a damaged part of the inner heart and is not contagious.

It is more common in individuals with abnormal heart structure, exposure to infectious bacteria, high risk behavior (such as intravenous drug use), and those with certain heart conditions as congenital heart disease, rheumatic fever, and a history of open heart surgery. New evidence is linking piercings and excessive alcohol consumption as a risk factor for those susceptible to the disease.

The treatment for this disease is long-term antibiotics, usually lasting 2-6 weeks. Some patients have to undergo surgery to remove the infected tissue, correct an existing disease, or repair/replace their valve(s). The patient who has had endocarditis will need to take antibiotics before having dental work and certain types of surgery.

When I started searching for information, I started where I always do, Google.  After I typed in different keywords, the ones I picked to look at where those on credible websites; such as the CDC, AHA, etc. As far as picking through the databases, I always read the abstract first. If it was too vague or didn’t sound like what I was looking for, I stopped looking at it.

1) Masterfile Premier

Recognizing and managing different types of endocarditis.

2005

This site explains the different types of infections the heart may encounter. It is informative because it tells you the signs and symptoms in addition to ways to treat them. There are also may causes of the disease listed, along with various definitions.

2) Masterfile Premier

Prevention of infective endocarditis: the new AHA guideline and the elderly.

2008.

This article has information over the different types of bacteria that can cause endocarditis and how/why they do. It also touches on why elderly people are becoming more susceptible to bacterial endocarditis. It discusses different recommendations regarding prophylaxis by the American Heart Association.

3) Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

Emerging issues in infective endocarditis

http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/eid/vol10no6/03-0848.htm

4) Medscape

Endocarditis, Bacterial

http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/896540-overview

5) American Heart Association (AHA)

Bacterial Endocarditis

http://circ.ahajournals.org/cgi/content/full/107/20/e185

6) Cleveland Clinic

Disease management project; Infective endocarditis

http://www.clevelandclinicmeded.com/medicalpubs/diseasemanagement/infectious-disease/infective-endocarditis/

Health Care Informatics

What is health care informatics?

Health care informatics is the compilation of health care science, information science, and computer science. These things are the basis of the knowledge we use every day to help guide our decision making process. Whether it is related to medicine, technology we are about to use, or our everyday clinical practices. As the notes explain, we put little bits and pieces of information together in order to make these decisions.

Why is health care informatics important?

Health care informatics is important for many different reasons. One reason it is a very effective way to help process and manage information regarding the health care system. This is important because with all the technology available, we are able to access health care records and information regarding that patient much faster. In addition to accessing information quicker, with EMR’s a patient’s entire history can be put into one file.  This is good because if someone was out of network or unable to speak for themselves, the medical record is available to guide the healthcare provider in making decisions.

Hello world!

Welcome to WordPress.com. This is your first post. Edit or delete it and start blogging!