Information literacy: a resource for nurses as lifelong learners

The use of information technologies throughout the world continues to increase rapidly and inexorably. Information exchange is rapidly becoming a major economic commodity. The short half-life of professional and technical knowledge necessitates nursing graduates having generic qualities that will enable them to adapt to technical change and cope with an 'information overabundant environment'. Today's nurses must have the capacity to access information, both physically and intellectually; that is, they must be information-literate. Nurses need to be discerning information consumers in order to acquire knowledge and skills in relation to their jobs and social roles and as participants of a democratic society. This paper examines information literacy as a critical resource for nurses as lifelong learners, and explores how information literacy is situated in the nursing literature. The authors pose two questions. Firstly, just how information-literate and aware of information literacy is the nursing profession? Secondly, how can the attitudes, skills and knowledge associated with information literacy be fostered, cultivated and attained in nursing education?