My semester schedule arrived in the mail today. Med-Surg (part deux), Peds, Research, and Informatics.
Informatics? What the hey is Informatics?
"Its the use of information technology to guide and improve care," was her reply. My instructor went on to explain that it consists primarily of understanding databases and information systems for documentation & evaluating patient care. She seemed a little dismayed with my question. I probably deserved it since I should have checked this out ahead of time.
"Is there anyway I might be able to comp out of this class? I spent 7 years as a database administrator and understand how they work."
She was unimpressed. "This is nursing school," she replied. And I felt like an idiot for asking.
[Chuckle]
I'm not so foolish as to predict this will be an easy class (especially coming off such a difficult Summer) but I am concerned about how it will be taught. I hope this turns out better than expected.
Not to sound critical but I did leave the world of IT because it no longer stimulated me. Actually my interest in that world faded not long after I accepted the job. Three years into it I knew I had made a mistake but by that time I had accumulated a house payment and one child. So it took a blessing disguised in the form of downsizing that allowed me to switch gears.
Fast forward to today. I'm taking a class on information technology in nursing school.
Funny how things come full circle.
[Update: I have no fewer than 3 messages on my answering machine. My head is swelling from the requests from fellow students to help them with this class. I'm thinking I can offset some of this tuition by charging them through the wazoos! Just kidding.]
The Deal About Nothing
6 years ago
Posts
If you go back to my blog and click on the VIEW MY PROFILE there is an email address. Would love to discuss the medication issue if you send me an email address.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you commented, I had not seen your blog yet and am pretty sure I will enjoy it.
Just want to thank you for your recent comment to my PCParade post, for your reading and appreciation of the post, and the inevitable introduction to me of your website that your comment allowed.
ReplyDeleteThe idea of blogging your way through medical training is intriguing. I've bookmarked you and I'm sure I'll be back.
That's funny, that word: informatics. They can't say Nursing IT. They have to say informatics. Perhaps it will be surprisingly stimulating and fun.
ReplyDeleteHey, Sammy
ReplyDeleteOne of my previous clients was an informatics company. As a result, I regularly get the two major informatics trade publications at the office. If you want them, I'll bring them to you.
Sure. I might be able to use them as references for the paper we have to write.
ReplyDeleteThanks!
Too Fat, SN