Reflection

Reflection

            The activities completed in this course supported the course outcomes. First, the virtual learning environment (VLE) activity provided a way for the student to apply the skills and knowledge learned in the classroom to real-life clinical situations (McGonigle & Mastrian, 2017). For example, the VLE exercise included a station where I assessed a patient to determine whether he was observing the measures relevant to managing pre-hypertension. The VLE exercise also had another station where I reviewed the patients’ vitals on the EKG to determine any abnormal readings. I applied and tested my theoretical knowledge in the stations. The activities gave me an opportunity to reflect on my ability to translate theory into practice and the areas that I needed to improve.

             The evaluation of the informatics competencies helped me to determine my NI competency level and the actions that I needed to take to progress to the expert level. Reflecting on my impression of my informatics skills helped me to focus on the NI areas that I had assumed I was an expert yet I lacked the required competency. Furthermore, the reflection helped me to recognize the NI areas that I had assumed I was a novice yet I was an expert. Completing the TANIC assessment and reflecting on the results helped me to develop a practical professional development plan.

            Identifying a current health IT topic gave me the opportunity to apply various informatics skills. Furthermore, the activity exposed me to the emerging healthcare trends that are influenced by technological advancements (Cocchi, 2016). Applying the health IT topic to my specialty area gave me crucial insights regarding the new ways to support the needs and concerns of providers, patients, caregivers and families.