Data and Information Literacy: A Fundamental Nursing Competency

Area of Science:

• Nursing Informatics
• Health Data Management
• Professional Development

Background:

• Nurses in the 21st century must possess data and information literacy skills.
• Baccalaureate-prepared nurses need proficiency in using information systems and applying data to practice.
• These competencies are crucial for the entire nursing workforce, including school nurses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To emphasize the necessity of data and information literacy for nurses.
• To highlight the role of school nurses, supervisors, and districts in professional development.
• To introduce the National Association of School Nurses (NASN) initiative for data capacity building.

Main Methods:

• The National Association of School Nurses (NASN) developed 'The National School Health Data Set: Every Student Counts!' initiative.
• This initiative focuses on a national standardized data set and data collection.
• It aims to build data and information capacity within the nursing profession.

Main Results:

• The NASN initiative directly addresses the need for enhanced data and information literacy among nurses.
• It provides a framework for standardized data collection and management in school health.
• This proactive approach supports the integration of data-driven decision-making in nursing practice.

Conclusions:

• Comprehensive professional development in data and information literacy is essential for school nurses and their affiliates.
• The NASN's 'Every Student Counts!' initiative is a key resource for building this capacity.
• Investing in data literacy empowers nurses to utilize evidence effectively in practice.