Integrating information literacy across a BSN curriculum.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Health Informatics
• Information Literacy

Background:

• Limited research exists on effective informatics teaching strategies in nursing.
• Nursing informatics competencies are still evolving, posing challenges for curriculum integration.
• Nurse educators face difficulties incorporating informatics into packed nursing curricula.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a systematic approach for integrating information literacy into baccalaureate nursing programs.
• To address the need for enhanced informatics education in nursing, as highlighted by key reports and frameworks.
• To provide a practical method for nurse educators to incorporate essential informatics skills.

Main Methods:

• Developed a five-assignment strategy to systematically integrate information literacy.
• Aligned the approach with the Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN) informatics competencies.
• Utilized the Technology Informatics Guiding Education Reform (TIGER) framework as a guide.
• Focused on clinical applications to enhance practical relevance.

Main Results:

• Assignments are designed to progressively develop students' information recognition (knowledge).
• The approach aims to improve students' information seeking, evaluation, and utilization skills.
• Fosters a positive attitude towards information literacy essential for patient care.

Conclusions:

• This systematic approach provides a viable method for integrating information literacy into nursing education.
• The strategy supports the development of competent nurses prepared for evidence-based practice.
• Emphasizing clinical applications ensures that informatics skills are directly transferable to patient care settings.