Reflect on the role of a nurse leader as a knowledge worker. Consider how knowledge may be informed by data that is collected/accessed. The Assignment: Explain the concept of a knowledge worker.Define and explain nursing informatics and highlight the role of a nurse leader as a knowledge worker. Include one slide that visually represents the role of a nurse leader as knowledge worker. Your PowerPoint should Include the hypothetical scenario you originally shared in the Discussion Forum. Include your examination of the data that you could use, how the data might be accessed/collected, and what knowledge might be derived from that data.
A knowledge worker is defined as someone who performs tasks which primarily focus on generating or manipulating data and information (Bills & Venable, 2014). Knowledge workers are essential to the modern workplace since they help organizations make informed decisions by collecting, analyzing and synthesizing data into useable insights (Bills & Venable, 2014). This type of worker typically requires a higher level of education in order to understand complex problems while being able to think critically and creatively.
Nursing informatics encompasses the fields of nursing, technology, computers and information science. It focuses on how healthcare professionals can optimize workflows through the adoption of technology thus improving quality care overall (Hebda & Czar 2016). In this role nurse leaders play an important part by making sure that new technologies are adopted properly within their organization ensuring that safety protocols are adhered to at all times. They also need to be able to anticipate potential issues before implementing changes thus anticipating any risks should something go wrong during implementation.
In addition, nurse leaders must be knowledgeable about current trends in healthcare IT such as telemedicine or artificial intelligence. This helps them stay abreast with industry developments so they can better educate staff while providing guidance when needed (Hebda & Czar 2016). Lastly, these individuals must be adept communicators since it is ultimately their job to ensure everyone understands how new processes should be implemented with minimal disruption.
All in all, it is clear that a knowledge worker plays an integral role within today’s healthcare system. Nurse leaders serve as key players in this setting leveraging their expertise with technology along with understanding current trends allowing them help make organizations run more efficiently while improving patient outcomes overall