What  should be nursing’s role in decision making regarding selecting information systems?

Nursing must be involved in the decision-making process regarding the selection of new information systems. As front-line healthcare providers, nurses have a unique understanding of patient care needs and what is necessary for an effective information system to support these needs. Furthermore, nursing input can help ensure the selection of a system that meets both clinical and organizational goals.

In order to provide meaningful input in selecting information systems, nurses should familiarize themselves with the organization’s strategic goals and objectives as well as its current workflow processes. This knowledge helps identify appropriate technology solutions that meet organizational requirements while also addressing clinical needs. Nurses can also participate in pilot studies or demonstrations to assess how particular technologies fit into existing workflows and interact with other systems already being used within their organization. Additionally, they may lead focus groups among staff members to determine user preferences on specific solutions or review vendor presentations during the decision making process.

Involvement from nursing leadership is essential when selecting an information system due its large impact on patient care delivery across the organization. Nursing leaders can provide guidance by promoting collaboration between informatics, IT professionals, clinicians and administrative personnel throughout every step of the decision making process from identification of problems through implementation of chosen solutions. Through this collaborative effort organizations are more likely to select an effective solution that meets everyone’s goals including those related to improved patient outcomes, operational efficiency and cost savings for example.. Ultimately having prominent involvement from all stakeholders ensures success in consistently delivering quality patient care using health IT solutions selected by nursing teams.