Answers all parts of the discussion question(s) expectations with reflective critical analysis and synthesis of knowledge gained from the course readings for the module and current credible sources.

Scenario:

As a nurse working in a hospital, I have noticed a significant increase in the number of patients being readmitted for the same condition within a short period. This has become a concern for me and the hospital administration, as it affects the quality of care we provide to patients, and it increases healthcare costs.

Data:

The data that could be used to address this issue includes patient records and electronic health records (EHRs). By analyzing this data, we can identify common factors among patients who are being readmitted, such as demographic information, comorbidities, medication regimen, and discharge instructions.

Data Collection and Access:

To collect this data, the hospital can utilize its EHR system to extract the necessary information. The data can be accessed by authorized healthcare providers, such as nurses and physicians, who will be responsible for analyzing the data.

Knowledge Formation:

Analyzing the data could provide valuable insights into the factors that contribute to patient readmissions. By identifying these factors, healthcare providers can develop targeted interventions to prevent future readmissions. For instance, if the analysis shows that a significant number of patients are being readmitted due to medication non-adherence, nurses and physicians can work together to develop strategies to improve medication adherence, such as patient education and follow-up visits.

Clinical Reasoning and Judgment:

Nurse leaders can use clinical reasoning and judgment to interpret the data and develop effective interventions. They can work collaboratively with other healthcare providers to evaluate the data and identify gaps in current practices. By using evidence-based practice, nurse leaders can develop effective strategies to improve patient outcomes and reduce readmissions. Additionally, nurse leaders can monitor the effectiveness of these interventions and make necessary adjustments to ensure that they are meeting their goals.

References:

McGonigle, D., & Mastrian, K. (2018). Nursing informatics and the foundation of knowledge (4th ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning.

Thew, J. (2016). The role of healthcare informatics in healthcare quality and patient safety. HealthITAnalytics. Retrieved from https://healthitanalytics.com/features/the-role-of-healthcare-informatics-in-healthcare-quality-and-patient-safety