Use of information technology by advanced practice nurses.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Informatics
• Health Information Technology

Background:

• Advance practice nurses (APNs) are increasingly expected to utilize information technology (IT) in their practice.
• Understanding their current IT use, competence, and training needs is crucial for effective healthcare delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the utilization of information technology by advance practice nurses.
• To assess their perception of IT competence and the adequacy of their training and support.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to 519 graduates of a nurse practitioner program.
• Data from 249 usable responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics, comparing IT use across various professional factors.

Main Results:

• Over 90% of nurse practitioners use computers in their work.
• A significant portion reported low self-perceived IT competence and inadequate training, both academic and workplace-based.
• Variations in IT use and perception were noted across specialties, work settings, and experience levels.

Conclusions:

• Despite widespread computer use, gaps exist in nurse practitioners' IT competence and preparedness.
• There is a clear need for improved academic and workplace training to enhance the effective integration of health informatics in nursing practice.