Professional Experience Placement

In 2009 Cader, Campbell and Watson addressed the complex issue of decision-making in nursing. They investigated how nurses judge or evaluate internet information related to nursing practice. In 2014 the issue of discerning quality and reliability of information on the internet continues. These authors undertook a grounded theory approach interviewing and using focus groups of nurses in the United Kingdom.

Intuition, quasi-rational cognition and analysis were identified as the key modes of cognition used by participants to judge the reliability of information related to practice on the internet. Within the category of intuition, user-friendliness and outlook were important. Within the quasi-rational category the authors found that nurses used intuition and analysis in their decision-making. They cross-checked and compared information using on-line facilities. When participants undertook  the task of evaluating the nature of evidence, analysis was used. Participants tended to use a systematic approach of scanning reference lists and seeking out the evidence-based research. Cader et al (2009) also discussed the influence of tacit, process and propositional knowledge and its association and relationship to practice.

The findings of this study also reported that nurses need to be afforded time to access the internet while at work to enable them to gain confidence and the opportunity to access evidence-based information.

In workplaces in Australia, some clinical supervisors have access to web-based materials via mobile or desk-top devices. It is important that these clinicians are confident in their ability to judge the quality and reliability of clinical information used in learning and teaching. Furthermore, clinical supervisors are role models for students who may not have developed competence in making decisions about the quality or reliability of information they find on the internet. It is necessary that clinical supervisors are information technology competent in using the internet for learning and teaching purposes and for ensuring they guide students in appropriate use in the workplace. This role and function is in addition to the role of mentor, preceptor and supervisor of nurturing novices towards competency and supporting students during work integrated learning.

If you have any a comments regarding judging clinical information on the internet by nurses you are welcome to post here. Please join us @PEPCommunity.