Approaches for defining and assessing nursing informatics competencies: a scoping review protocol

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Informatics
• Healthcare Education

Background:

• Nursing informatics is a critical field integrating nursing science, computer science, and information science.
• Defining and assessing competencies in nursing informatics is essential for quality patient care and professional development.
• Existing literature shows varied approaches to defining and evaluating these specialized skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize the definitions and assessment methods of nursing informatics competencies found in the literature.
• To identify common themes, gaps, and inconsistencies in the current understanding and evaluation of these competencies.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across major academic databases.
• Studies focusing on the definition, development, or assessment of nursing informatics competencies were included.
• Data extraction and thematic synthesis were employed to analyze the findings.

Main Results:

• Definitions of nursing informatics competencies vary significantly across studies.
• Assessment methods range from self-assessments and knowledge tests to performance evaluations and portfolio reviews.
• A lack of standardized frameworks for competency assessment is evident.

Conclusions:

• There is a critical need for standardized definitions and validated assessment tools for nursing informatics competencies.
• Standardization will facilitate consistent education, practice, and evaluation of nursing informatics professionals.
• Further research is required to develop and implement robust competency models.