Evaluation of a nursing informatics training program shows significant changes in nurses’ perception of their knowledge of information technology

A survey of nurses attending a Weekend Immersion in Nursing Informatics (WINI) program showed a statistically significant change in the nurses’ perception of information technology (IT) and of their ability to apply IT to affect the quality of patient care. Attendees first identified their level of expertise based on the Informatics Competencies for Nurses at Four Levels of Nursing Practice, and then completed surveys pre- and postprogram attendance to measure their personal assessments of their knowledge and abilities in specific areas of nursing informatics, information technology, and healthcare information systems. Such personal assessments are mandated in the professional standards of nursing informatics practice.