Computers and information technologies in psychiatric nursing

Abstract

Topic: There is an assumption that psychiatric nurses are late adopters of technology because psychiatric nursing has been traditionally viewed as a nontechnological nursing specialty.

Purpose: This article will review current nursing literature to outline the value and significance of computers and information technologies to psychiatric nursing.

Sources of information: Existing bodies of research literature related to computers and information technology for psychiatric nurses.

Conclusion: Three areas of psychiatric nursing are identified and the specific advantages and benefits of computers and information technologies in each of these areas are discussed. In addition, the importance of informatics competencies for psychiatric nursing practice is reiterated in order to accelerate its acquisition.