[Standardized nursing language: the bedrock of computerized nursing records]

Taiwan is currently in the initial phase of implementing a nursing information system. In order to successfully achieve effective communications across dispersed and diverse populations, care settings, and locations, standardized language within the nursing profession must be established and promoted. However, standardized nursing language is not well known among Taiwanese nurses. This article introduces the definition of standardized nursing language, the importance of standardized nursing language to the nursing profession, and the relationship between nomenclatures and standardized nursing language. Additionally, twelve language standards recognized by the American Nurse Association and the ICNP (International Classification for Nursing Practice) developed by International Council of Nurses are briefly introduced. In Taiwan, although cross-mapping of ICNP terms with handwritten nursing records has been done, further research must be done to reach practical conclusions. The authors hope this article will help Taiwanese nurses learn more about standardized nursing language and, consequently, contribute more toward the implementation of the nursing information system in Taiwan.