A global perspective on nurses' Internet access and information utilization

Abstract

Purpose/objectives: To describe a global perspective of nurses accessing the Internet and using electronic information to improve cancer care.

Data sources: Literature, electronic online sources, and personal experience.

Data synthesis: Nurses outside the United States encounter a number of barriers when accessing information and communicating electronically, including cultural differences, educational differences, limited access to computers and Internet services, technical and government barriers, financial difficulties, language barriers, healthcare system differences, and limited assistance and training. ONS Online has attempted to develop and strengthen relationships among nursing groups in other countries.

Conclusions: Although many barriers exist for nurses outside the United States, an increasing interest is occurring in networking via the Internet and using electronic information to improve cancer care.

Implications for nursing practice: As barriers slowly are broken down and computer and Internet access increases in Europe and other countries, oncology nurses will be able to provide higher quality care to their patients with cancer. ONS Online is a quality resource that nurses outside the United States can access to develop links with oncology nursing colleagues and exchange information to enhance cancer care throughout the world.