Problem to be Resolved:

Although there has been recent interest in informatics competencies, there has not been a focus on what competencies are needed for the doctor of nursing practice (DNP) student and graduates. Established and developing DNP programs can benefit from learning how others are teaching and integrating informatics.

Objectives of the Project:

The aims were the following:

* Identify existing professional practice standards for informatics competencies.

* Determine appropriate informatics competencies for the DNP student and graduate.

Methods:

A systematic review of the literature was conducted. Informatics courses for more than 40 schools of nursing have been examined to determine how the schools are teaching informatics to the DNP students.

Outcomes:

Summary statements about the programs of study will be made.

Lessons Learned:

There are a variety of ways in which DNP students are learning informatics competencies. Suggestions for courses and assignments will be made.

Section Description

We are pleased to share the paper presentation abstracts from the Summer Institute in Nursing Informatics, Informatics at the Point of Care: A Barrier or a Bridge?, held at the University of Maryland School of Nursing, July 22 to 25, 2009. The program, chaired by Dr Judy Ozbolt, was a great success. Each of the following abstracts was selected for presentation by a peer-review committee.