Application Design Considerations and Workaround

Part 1: Design Considerations

Nursing informatics is a specialty that is based on the integration of nursing science, computer science, and information science. Nursing informatics manages and communicates data related to nursing. It also facilitates data integration for the purpose of supporting nurses as well as patients. Nursing informatics provides support through the use of different information structures, information processes, and information technology.

The implementation of an informatics system is influenced by different factors including hardware, software, and human. These factors must be taken into consideration for the successful implementation of information technology. Nursing informatics projects are not different from other forms of informatics system. This paper is based on the analysis of the implementation of a bar code system at Riverdale Hospital. The implementation of this method is expected to deal with information management issues faced by the hospital. The problem faced by the hospital is ineffective management of patients' records.

The field of nursing is wide and complex. Nursing field consists of different contexts, conditions, and processes. In this field, it is important to consider the individual and professional aspects of nursing. In the context of successful implementation of an informatics system, it is not enough to define technical and functional matters. The informatics project must focus on the knowledge and practice of nursing. It is also important to integrate different aspects of nursing include nursing care, nursing responsibilities, and nursing processes.

A nursing informatics project needs a clearly defined framework which includes the initial decision making process as well as the evaluation of the overall system. It is also important to organize different elements of project. The factors that could impact the successful execution of an informatics project include human factors, hardware factors, and software factors. The term human factors refer to the relationship between humans and machines. The factors included in this category include user-friendliness of computer systems, the use of advanced tools, and training of nurses. Ergonomics is an important human factor that must be considered when developing and implementing an informatics system. Ergonomics focus on the design and effectiveness of equipment, tools and machines in order to ensure the safety, comfort, and convenience. Ergonomics is associated with the placement of terminals in patients' rooms in an optimal manner. Human factors are ergonomics are considered to be the practice standards for informatics (American Nurses Association, 2008).

Another human concern related to the implementation of barcode system ...