Relationship between nursing informatics competencies and evidence-based decision-making use among nurse managers

Abstract

Background In today’s changing health systems, it is imperative that nursing managers must be proficient in nursing informatics to make evidence-based decisions, which may ultimately lead to increased organizational effectiveness. The study aims to examine the relationship between nursing informatics competencies and evidence-based decision-making (EBDM) use among nursing managers. Study design A descriptive correlational design was used in this study. Sample The sample included a total of 97 nurse managers. Setting This study was conducted at a selected private hospital. Tools Three tools were used to collect the study data as follows: (a) the nurses manager’s personal and work-related data tool, (b) the Nursing Informatics Competency Assessment Tool, and (c) Evidence-Based Decision-Making Usage Questionnaire. Results The main findings indicated that more than one-fifth (21.6%) of the study sample were proficient in total informatics competencies. In addition, EBDM attitude and beliefs had the highest mean percentage (66.13%), EBDM skills had the lowest mean percentage (52.44%), and EBDM overall had a moderate level mean percentage (60.29%). A statistically significant strong positive correlation (r=0.628, P=0.00) between the overall informatics competencies and the overall EBDM process skills was found. Conclusion Nursing informatics competencies levels influence the study participants’ attitudes and abilities regarding the use of EBDM. Recommendations Incorporate the nursing informatics qualification in the job descriptions of all nurse management levels and provide an environment that supports and allows the use of an effective EBDM process.