Building a Treasure Map for Nursing Informatics Engagement with Online Community Software

Nursing informatics is crucial in improving healthcare delivery and patient outcomes. With the rapid advancement of technology, online community management software and social media platforms have emerged as powerful tools for fostering engagement and knowledge sharing among healthcare professionals. This poster explores the potential of leveraging these platforms to optimize nursing informatics engagement and highlights their benefits and challenges.

Integrating online community management software and social media platforms in nursing informatics initiatives offers several advantages. Firstly, these platforms provide a centralized space for nurses to connect, collaborate, and exchange information, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. Nurses can engage in real-time discussions, seek advice, and share best practices, thereby enhancing their professional growth and competence. Furthermore, online communities and social media platforms enable the dissemination of evidence-based practice guidelines, research findings, and educational resources, facilitating continuous learning and knowledge acquisition. Nursing professionals can access engaging and interactive content by leveraging multimedia features such as videos, infographics, and webinars, promoting effective information retention and application in clinical settings. In addition to knowledge sharing, online communities and social media platforms offer opportunities for networking and mentorship. Novice nurses can connect with experienced practitioners, fostering mentor-mentee relationships and facilitating the transfer of clinical expertise. Moreover, these platforms allow nurses to engage with interdisciplinary teams, breaking down silos and promoting collaborative decision-making.

In May 2023, the Northeast Region created a committee to begin evaluating how to maximize the use of ANIA Connect by developing and updating training materials. Several barriers to usability were identified, including lack of visibility of system status, poor user control and freedom, and poor flexibility and efficiency of use. Utilization data was also reviewed over the past five years, indicating a significant decrease in log-ins from 2020 to 2021. Further discussion with chapters has indicated the need for more training and awareness of the capabilities of this tool as membership increases and continuity is stabilized. Monthly meetings are currently underway to help develop a sustainable training platform and update past references. This presentation will be intended to serve as an educational resource for all chapters.

In conclusion, integrating online community management software and social media platforms in nursing informatics initiatives offers immense potential for optimizing engagement, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among healthcare professionals. By leveraging these platforms effectively, nurses can enhance their professional development, promote evidence-based practice, and foster interdisciplinary teamwork. Future work should focus on developing guidelines, policies, and educational interventions to maximize the benefits.